Cervical Screening Initiatives Program
Eastern Health implements the Cervical Screening Initiatives program throughout the communities it serves with cervical cancer screening and prevention integrated into the comprehensive delivery of services. 

HPV Vaccine
The introduction of the new vaccine for Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) has vastly improved cervical cancer prevention. HPV is a very common infection. The link between cervical cancer and HPV has been solidly shown, however not every person who may come in contact with HPV will develop cervical cancer. The HPV vaccine is made available to girls in grades 6 and 9 through the school based immunization program.

A Pap Test Can Save Your Life
The simple Pap test will detect early cell changes that are precursors to cervical cancer. Women who are, or ever have been sexually active, are encouraged to see their regular health care provider for annual screening.

In Newfoundland and Labrador approximately 85,000 women are screened and 8,000 women will have an abnormal Pap test each year. Unfortunately, that leaves about 140,000 women not screened. The program works diligently with health care providers to ensure that opportunities are made for women to be able to access Pap screening.

To access regional coordinators of the provincial program contact:

Susan Earles R.N. B.N.
St John’s
752-4353
susan.earles@easternhealth.ca

Dawn Mercer  B.N. R.N. CHN
Clarenville
466-5847
dawn.mercer@easternhealth.ca

For information about a clinic near you call toll free:  1- 866- 643-8719.

Provincial Program Gudelines and Reports
The provincial program provides guidelines for improving the follow up and management of cervical screening. Each year monitoring reports provide indicators of the performance at both the regional and provincial level.

These reports can review the participation rates for communities and provides a planning format for improving screening in places where women live.

2007 Community Level Rates of Cervical Screening – Map of Region 

For more information, access Provincial Cervical screening Initiatives Resources

In partnership with health care educators and providers, we want to reduce the burden of cervix cancer for the women of Newfoundland and Labrador!