Efforts gain reward

A SPRINGVALE nurse has been applauded for her dedication to helping women beat cancer.
Van Dang took home the Quality of Practice award at the PapScreen Victoria Nurse Cervical Screening Provider Awards which were held recently in Melbourne.
The awards are held every three years and recognise the huge contribution nurse cervical screening providers make to cervical cancer prevention in Victoria, particularly in underscreened communities and regional areas.
There were more than 50 nominees for the eight awards on offer, with an expert judging panel determining the winners.
“I have an important role in Springvale in helping to share the message about the importance of regular screening when it comes to preventing cervical cancer,” Ms Dang said.
“Education is so important, especially with so many women from non-English speaking backgrounds in the local area.
“I am able to spend time with them, provide advice and make sure they are encouraging their relatives to come along, too.”
PapScreen Victoria program manager Hiranthi Perera said nurses like Ms Dang were integral to the success of the cervical screening program in Victoria.
“We know that many women prefer to see a nurse, in particular a female provider, when having their Pap test taken,” she said.
“When a Pap test every two years can reduce the risk of cervical cancer by 90 per cent, nurses’ contribution to engaging more women in the program cannot be understated.”
Ms Perera said about 80 per cent of women diagnosed with cervical cancer had either never had a Pap test or had not had them regularly in the 10 years prior to their diagnosis.
“There’s simply no better reason for women to make sure they are up-to-date,” she said.
For more information visit www.papscreen.org.au or call the Cancer Council Helpline on 13 11 20.