One-third Of Women Behind On Cervical Cancer Screenings

Shocking statistics have been published that show almost a third of women in England have not been screened for cervical cancer or are not up to date with their tests. Despite being the 14th most common form of cancer among females and 3,197 new cases having been diagnosed between 2016 and 2018, not enough women are being tested for the condition. NHS England data shared with the Guardian has shown 4.6 million females between 25 and 64 years old in England have not been checked or their tests are now out of date. This represents the highest proportion in ten years, sparking concern that diagnosis rates could rise if people do not get themselves looked at. Samantha Dixon, chief executive of Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust charity, told the publication: “We want to see the government step up and commit to eliminating cervical cancer in the UK.” She noted that other nations are further ahead of Britain in fighting this form of cancer, particularly as there is the HPV vaccination available for adolescents that means developing cervical cancer is highly preventable. However, take-up for the jab dropped by seven per cent for girls and by 8.7 per cent for boys in year 8 in 2021/22. Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust has revealed only 16 per cent and 20 per cent think enough is being done by the government to encourage screenings and HPV vaccinations respectively. Cervical cancer incidences have declined substantially over the last few years, dropping by 25 per cent since the 1990s, according to Cancer Research UK. However, this is only possible through regular tests and high vaccination rates. If you have received a diagnosis for cervical cancer and want immediate treatment, our private oncology clinic could provide the care you need.