Media Release

2 May 2008

Cancer Vaccine Programme Valuable Opportunity

It is good news that a vaccine to guard against cervical cancer will be added to the National Immunisation Programme says New Zealand First’s health spokesperson, Barbara Stewart.

“The vaccine is already used in Australia and several other countries and it will be available here from September.

“The inclusion of the vaccine in the schedule will also provide a valuable opportunity to address inequalities around cancer.

“Maori and Pacific Island women suffer disproportionately from cervical cancer and the introduction of the vaccine will give health providers a means by which they can raise awareness among high risk groups.

“The Government should take into account the association between cervical cancer incidence and socio-economic deprivation.

“As well as introducing the vaccine health authorities should now actively target communities where there are unmet needs around diagnosing and treating cervical cancer,” said Mrs Stewart.

ENDS

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