Health leaders in England are pushing younger women to prioritize smear tests to help with early detection of cervical cancer, which can be deadly if not caught early. The country aims to eliminate cervical cancer by 2040, a goal that will require high levels of screening, vaccination, and early intervention when cancer or pre-cancerous cells are found. However, recent data shows that a third of women between the ages of 25 and 50 in England are not getting screened as recommended.
In England, women are offered free cervical screenings starting at age 24 as part of the public health system. While the tests involve taking a sample from the cervix using a swab, many women find the process uncomfortable or painful. Body image issues and embarrassment may also contribute to women avoiding or delaying their screenings. A survey by Jo’s Cancer Trust found that more than a third of women aged 25-35 were hesitant to attend screenings due to these concerns.
The latest statistics reveal that the country is still falling short in testing enough young women to effectively eradicate cervical cancer. Public health officials are working to improve access to screenings, but they emphasize the importance of women coming forward for their appointments. Steve Russell, chief delivery officer for NHS England, urges women not to wait for another invitation before contacting their GP practice for a screening, as early detection can be life-saving.
Cervical cancer is primarily caused by high-risk strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), a highly contagious virus that often presents with no symptoms. Although the immune system can clear HPV infections on its own, persistent cases can lead to cancer. England has recently introduced HPV-first screenings to check for certain high-risk strains of the virus that increase the risk of cervical cancer. Women with a high-risk HPV infection are typically invited for more frequent screenings to monitor any changes in their cervical cells.
To reduce the risk of developing cancers linked to HPV, teenagers in England are offered vaccines against specific high-risk strains of the virus. These vaccines aim to lower the chances of developing cervical cancer and other associated cancers. Ultimately, early detection through regular screenings, vaccination, and prompt treatment of precancerous cells are crucial steps in the country’s efforts to eliminate cervical cancer by 2040. Leaders emphasize the importance of women prioritizing their health and attending smear tests to improve their chances of early detection and successful treatment.
