MINISTER ACCEPTS GEAR UP GIRL CHALLENGE

The ACT Minister for Health, Katy Gallagher MLA, will today (SUNDAY) open and also participate in the first Canberra Gear Up Girl Challenge Pedal for Pap Event.

"This event is an opportunity to raise awareness among ACT women of the need to have two yearly Pap tests and provides a wonderful opportunity for women of all ages and abilities, shapes and sizes to get out on their bikes, to be active and have fun," she said.

Ms Gallagher said the latest Australian Institute of Health & Welfare Statistical Report showed that over the three-year period 2005-2007, the ACT had one of the highest participation rates for cervical screening in Australia at 78.7%.

"But there is concern that the participation rate for young women, especially those aged 20-24 years (50.46%) and 25-29 years (58.63%) continues to be low," she said.

"A Pap test every two years can prevent the most common form of cervical cancer in up to 90% of cases; by detecting early changes, abnormalities can be treated before they become cancerous.

"Since the introduction of the National Cervical Screening Program in 1991, deaths from cervical cancer in Australia have decreased by over 50%."

The Gear Up Girl Challenge Pedal for Pap Event is a women's only cycling event presented by Netti and organised by Bicycle NSW, a not for profit organisation, to raise funds for the Oncology Children's Foundation, the Gear Up Girl Charity Partner.

"Through events like this, we continue to show our commitment to encouraging women to get involved and active, to do something positive for their health and fitness, and to continue to promote the importance of women having Pap tests every two years," Ms Gallagher said.

The Minister will participate in the 20 kilometre Weston Loop ride, starting and finishing at Weston Park.