Statistics released by The Cancer Council Victoria last week revealed that twice this number of women were still undergoing treatment each year for a female-specific cancer, including breast and gynaecological cancers (cervical,

ovarian, uterine, vaginal and vulva).

The Cancer Council Victoria is rallying the 7400 women living in the shire to support cancer sufferers by hosting a Girls' Night In this month.

The event is an opportunity for women of all ages to invite girlfriends over for the night and celebrate friendships by having a movie night, dinner party or general catch-up.

In return, guests are asked to make a donation to the amount they would usually spend on a night out.

All funds raised by Girls' Night In will go towards The Cancer Council's women's cancer research, essential support services for cancer patients, their families and carers as well as education and prevention programs to lessen

women's cancer risks and promote early detection.

Hepburn Springs breast cancer sufferer Julieta Weiss said the event was a great idea to help local women with cancer.

Cancer Council Helpline said the event was a timely reminder for all women to take care of their own health.

The Cancer Council advises that all women aged 18 to 69 should have a Pap test every two years while women aged 59 to 69 should have a free BreastScreen Mammagram every two years.

The latest statistics reveal that 65 per cent of Victorian women are being screened regularly, which means more than a third of women still aren't having this important preventative health test.

Hepburn Shire Council mayor Heather Mutimer said women's health issues were important and she encouraged people to help in any way they could.

For more information contact the Cancer Council Helpline on 131 120.

To register your interest for Girls Night In visit www.girlsnightin.com.au or call 1300 656 585.