A quarter of women in the South West don't attend routine cervical screenings
A new campaign has launched to encourage people to attend their smear tests after an invite
Last updated 28th Mar 2022
A new NHS campaign has launched calling on people to go to their cervical screenings, as it's revealed a quarter in the South West don't attend routine smear tests.
The national campaign launched in February and is calling on those eligible not to ignore their invite.
Dr Emma Kain told us: "It is so important and I think now more than ever we need to think about our health and we need to look after ourselves so I would really encourage when people receive their invite to phone up and make an appointment as soon as possible".
The new Help Us Help You – Cervical Screening Saves Lives campaign urges those who may be eligible not to ignore their cervical screening invite, and if they missed their last one, to book an appointment with their GP practice or sexual health clinic now.
The survey released showed embarrassment was the most common reason for not booking a screening appointment in England and 61% of respondents in the South West said they were nervous when they did choose to attend.
Dr Emma continued: "If you go and you're worried, please just explain that to the doctor or the nurse because it'll be a lot easier if they understand your anxieties".
Latest figures from March 2021 show that around 73% of eligible women and people with a cervix who were sent an invite in the South West were not screened.
Data shows around 2,700 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer in England each year.
It also shows approximately 690 women to die from the disease which amounts to around two deaths every day.
Previous estimates suggest screening prevents 70% of cervical cancer deaths but research suggests 83% of deaths could be prevented if everyone between the ages of 25 and 64 attended their smears regularly.
Dr Nikki Kanani, GP and Medical Director for Primary Care at NHS England, said: “There is no doubt about it - cervical screening saves lives. By screening for risk signs at an early stage, it means that any abnormal cells can be treated quickly before they potentially develop into cancer.
“We know that it can feel embarrassing, or feel like something that you can easily put off, but accepting your invite and getting checked could save your life. And please do speak to your GP practice about any concerns you might have – we are here to help you".
The campaign also launched a film addressing concerns around screening and features celebrities including Linda Robson, Scarlett Moffatt, Louise Minchin, Victoria Scone and Sharon Gaffka.
The research from the project reveals that although people were fearful about cervical smears, over half of respondents were surprised about how quick the test was and a greater 92% would encourage others who are worried to go for a test.
The majority also said they were glad they attended.
Dr Julie Yates, Lead Consultant for Screening and Immunisation for NHS England and NHS Improvement South West, said: “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 very busy and it's easy to let your cervical screening appointment slip to the bottom of your 'to do' list, but it only lasts a few minutes. And it’s a few minutes that could save your life".