LOCAL women between 25 and 64 years of age are encouraged to forward for a free cervical screening test as part of Cervical Cancer Prevention Week (21-28 January)

NHS South Yorkshire is supporting Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust during the week to highlight the importance of cervical screening. The cervical screening test (the smear) is routinely offered every five years to women and anyone with a cervix between the ages of 25 and 64. It’s a quick test to check the cervix (neck of the womb) for the human papillomavirus (HPV).

HPV is a very common virus that 80% of people in have at some point in their lives. HPV does not generally cause symptoms, and you may not know that you have it, but it causes 99% of all cervical cancers.

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 between 25 and 49 you will receive an appointment every three years, aged between 50 and 64 every five years and if you are above 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.

Dr David Crichton, Medical Officer from NHS South Yorkshire said “Having a smear test is hugely important as early detection of any abnormalities within the cervix can lead to a better chance of successful treatment.

“Women who are less likely take up their appointments are often the ones who would benefit most, to prevent them from developing more serious complications. Usually there are no symptoms with cervical cancer, so it is only by having a smear test that any abnormal cells within the cervix can be found before they develop into cancer.

“I’d like to take this opportunity to urge all ladies from South Yorkshire to take up their all-important cervical screening appointment, for five minutes out of your day – it could save your life“

Cervical screening:

  • takes five minutes
  • is the best way to find out if you are at risk of developing cervical cancer
  • can help prevent cervical cancer before it starts
  • can help find changes when you feel healthy and have no symptoms

Cervical Cancer Prevention Week is an annual event organised by the charity Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust. It aims to highlight the importance of cervical screening (the smear test) and encourage women and people with a cervix to take part regularly

Screening is usually carried out by the practice nurse at your GP clinic.

Women who have missed their cervical screening appointment are encouraged to contact their local GP to book an appointment.