Cervical cancer prevention week
In South Yorkshire and Bassetlaw approximately 3 in 4 eligible women are attending their cervical screening (smear test) appointments.
This week (22-28 January), is Cervical Cancer Prevention Week. Women in South Yorkshire and Bassetlaw who do not attend their smear tests are being urged to visit the “Fear or Smear” website which addresses concerns women have about attending and provides them with the information needed to make an informed decision.
It is estimated that early detection and treatment through cervical screening can prevent up to 75% of cervical cancers from developing.
Cervical cancer is the most common cancer in women aged under 35, with 8 women a day being diagnosed with the disease in the UK. The best way for women to protect themselves against cervical cancer is by taking up their cervical screening appointments.
Cervical screening is NOT a test for cancer; it is a screening test to detect changes to the cells of the cervix or neck of the womb.
All women between the ages of 25 and 64 are eligible for a free cervical screening test every three to five years. If you are aged 25-49 you will receive an appointment every three years, aged 50-64 every five years and if you are 65+ you will only be screened if you haven’t had a smear test since the age of 50 or have had recent abnormal tests.
If you have missed your cervical screening appointment, you are encouraged to contact your GP to book an appointment.
If you live in South Yorkshire or Bassetlaw and are aged 25 or over, please take five minutes to complete the online questionnaire regarding cervical screening in the region.
https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/6M92RJ6
Don’t let your fears stop you from taking the test. Find out more at http://fearorsmear.dbh.nhs.uk
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