AN urgent cancer warning has been issued as one in three people are missing vital cervical screenings.
Invites for the crucial checks are being ignored and leaving thousands of lives at risk, experts have said today.
A new campaign – Help Us Help You – wants women, and anyone eligible, to book an appointment now if they missed their last screening.
The latest figures from March 2021 show nearly a third of eligible people aged between 25 and 64 were not screened.
Around 2,700 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer in England each year and approximately 690 women die – around two deaths every day.
It is thought 83 per cent of cervical cancer deaths could be prevented if everyone attended their slots 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.”
In England, NHS cervical screening is offered to women and people with a cervix between the ages of 24.5 and 49 every three years.
For those aged 50 and 64, screening is offered every five years.
Cervical screening checks for high-risk types of the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), a common virus that most people will get at some point.
While for people with high-risk HPV the risk of getting cancer is low, any abnormal changes can be identified early.
Cell changes are easily treated, and this prevents cervical cancer – that is why attending screening appointments is so important.
Worries about pain and embarrassment stop a lot of people from getting their check, but most women don’t find it particularly uncomfortable and is over quicker than thought.
GET CHECKED OUT
GP Dr Zoe Williams, a Sun columnist and who features in the campaign, said: “The symptoms of cervical cancer are not always obvious, and there may not be any symptoms at all until the cancer has reached an advanced stage.
“That’s why it’s important that you attend all your cervical screening appointments.
“If you are feeling nervous or embarrassed, then I cannot encourage you enough to talk to your nurse during the test and remember you are in control and can stop the test whenever you want to.
“If you’re worried about feeling exposed, I would suggest wearing a skirt, dress or long jumper when you go for your screening.
“Screening can stop cancer before it starts and saves thousands of lives every year. If you missed your last cervical screening, book an appointment with your GP practice or sexual health clinic now.”
Maria Caulfield, Minister for Patient Safety and Primary Care, said: “Around two women die every day from cervical cancer, but screening takes just a few minutes and can stop the disease before it starts.
“Through our new campaign we’re calling on all women and people with a cervix to get screened to help save hundreds of lives. Even if you’re feeling embarrassed or nervous, please don’t ignore your invitation.”
