Cervical screening: no cancer cases found to date in major Southern Health Trust review

No cancer cases have been found to date during a major cervical screening review by the Southern Health Trust, it emerged today (Thursday).

In a statement, the Trust said the review which involved around 17,000 women having their smear tests examined again, was almost completed.

"Initial findings of the review confirm that the vast majority of previous smear results are unchanged and have been reconfirmed as normal," the statement added.

"As expected, some low-grade abnormalities (around 300) and a very small number of higher grade abnormalities (fewer than five) have been found.

"Identifying high-grade abnormalities does not mean cancer has been found, rather these are pre-cancerous cell changes that could progress to cancer if left unchecked or untreated. These women are being followed up by clinical staff with further investigation and management if required."

Meanwhile, Trust medical director, Dr Stephen Austin, apologised for "our screeners' performance."

“During the period 2008 - 2021, some of our screeners’ performance fell below the recognised standard," he said.

"This was identified and actions were taken to deliver improvement. However, at times, the performance of some screeners did not reach the required standard despite having had additional training and support. This was not recognised and we apologise for this."