“Cervical screening saves lives, preventing up to 7 in 10 incidences of cervical cancer. Despite this, almost 1 in 3 do not attend their cervical screening (smear test) when invited,” said Natalie Don MSP, commenting on Cervical Screening Awareness Week which runs from 20th to 26th June 2022 and aims to highlight the importance of regular cervical screening for women’s health.
Cervical cancer is the most common form of cancer in women under 35 with two women in the UK per day dying from the disease. Regular cervical screening appointments can prevent up to 75% of instances of cervical cancer, saving 5000 lives per year. Cervical Screening Awareness Week is organised by the charity Jo’s trust, a charity dedicated to women affected by cervical cancer or abnormalities.
Cervical Screening Awareness week aims to encourage all women to have regular cervical screening as well as to provide information and reassurance around any fears or embarrassment that women may have concerning taking the test.
Natalie Don MSP
Natalie Don MSP said:
“Cervical Screening Awareness Week aims to highlight the importance of regular screening and to help tackle the concerns of women who don’t attend their appointments.
“When found early, cervical cancer is highly treatable and associated with high survival rates so raising awareness of symptoms, encouraging cervical screening attendance and noticing any changes which are unusual for you and your body is vital.
“It is important to make sure you don’t miss your cervical screening appointment, if you have concerns over this you should talk to your GP about this as soon as possible.”
