Plea to Wiltshire women to go for cervical screening when invited
This week is Cervical Cancer Prevention Week
Last updated 20th Jan 2022
The amount of eligible women across the country is lower than ever, according to one charity.
Jo's Cervical Cancer Trust is calling on females to go for their smear tests when invited, as while it could be embarrassing and uncomfortable, it could save lives.
Screening tests are believed to pick up 75% of cervical cancers.
In Wiltshire, nearly a quarter (24%) of women didn't go for an appointment during the first year of the pandemic.
That's more than 30,000 people who haven't been checked for the signs of possible cancers or abnormalities.
Kate is from Jo's Cervical Cancer Trust and says it's important to go along if you're given the opportunity:
"Cervical screening isn't always an easy test - it can be embarrassing, it can be difficult, it can be scary, but it's so important. So if you're overdue your cervical screening, there is support out there, there are tips out there."
Routine smear tests are offered to women aged 25 to 64 to check for changes to the cervix that could lead to cancers.
Uptake of the tests is slightly higher among Wiltshire's older women (aged 50 to 64), with 77% of people going along, compared to 76% of 25 to 49 year olds.
During Cervical Cancer Awareness Week, the charity and the NHS are also calling on women to be aware of the symptoms of health issues that should always be checked out.
That can include abnormal bleeding, such as between periods or after the menopause.
Kate from Jo's Cervical Cancer Trust said:
"Do go and see your GP if you're experiencing anything and make sure you're clued up on the symptoms. Get involved this Cervical Cancer Prevention Week, we really want to encourage the sharing of stories, tips and experiences. Your experience might help someone else feel a little bit less alone when they get their cervical screening results or a little more able to take up their invite."