CERVICAL SCREENING
An important health campaign about Cervical Screening is now underway to encourage those eligible for screening to respond to their screening invitation letter, and to book an appointment with their GP practice if they missed their last screening.
Screening is available for women and people with a cervix aged 25-64.
Two women die every day from cervical cancer, yet it is one of the most preventable cancers. Around 2,700 women in England are diagnosed with cervical cancer each year and it is the second most common cancer amongst women under 35 .
Screening helps prevent cervical cancer by checking for a virus called high-risk HPV which causes nearly all cervical cancers. This is the best way to find out who is at higher risk of developing the cervical cell changes that over time could potentially lead to cervical cancer. Any cervical cell changes can be treated, preventing cervical cancer.
Life can be hectic and it’s easy to let your cervical screening appointment fall to the bottom of your ‘to do’ list, but it only lasts a few minutes – it’s a few minutes that could save your life.
If you’re embarrassed about cervical screening then you’re not alone. Talk to the nurse or doctor doing the test, who can help put you at ease.
