Cervical Screen-a-Thon: New Test, Same Goal
Published Monday, April 6, 2026
April marks Cervical Screen-a-Thon, a month-long awareness campaign encouraging eligible individuals across Northwestern Ontario to book their cervical screening test. Formerly known as ‘Pap-a-Palooza', the campaign has been renamed in its 10th year following recent changes to the Ontario Cervical Screening Program.
The Switch
In 2025, Ontario replaced the traditional Pap test with a new cervical screening test that checks for certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV) that can lead to cervical cancer. The new cervical screening test is more accurate at detecting these high-risk types of HPV and any early changes in cervical cells. Because someone can carry HPV for many years without knowing it, regular screening is the only way to catch potential problems early.
The Test
The cervical screening test feels just like a Pap test. A doctor or nurse practitioner will use a small, soft brush to take cells from the cervix which are then tested for HPV and cell changes.
The improved accuracy of the new test means most people only need to be screened every five years instead of every three.
Who Should Get Screened
You should get a cervical screening test if you:
- are at least 25 years old
- are a woman, Two-Spirit person, transmasculine person or nonbinary person with a cervix
- have ever had sexual contact with another person
- do not have symptoms like unusual bleeding or discharge from the vagina
- are due for cervical screening according to the Ontario Cervical Screening Program's recommendations
Most people can stop cervical screening between ages 65 to 69, but some may need to continue if advised by their health care provider. If you have no symptoms and generally feel well, it's the perfect time to be tested!
The Campaign
If you're due for your cervical screening test, book your appointment with a participating clinic before April 30th to join Cervical Screen-a-Thon!
For more information, including a full list of over 40 participating clinics and health centres across Northwestern Ontario, visit tbrhsc.net/screenathon.