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January 2022 Health Awareness - Cervical Cancer Screening

View profile for Saira Walji
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Cervical Screening Awareness Week runs from 21 to 28 January 2022 and aims to raise awareness and highlight the importance of regular cervical screening for women.

Cervical screening (a smear test) is an effective way of preventing cervical cancer. All women between the ages of 25 and 64 are advised to undergo regular cervical screening under the NHS cervical screening programme.

Cervical cancer develops in the cervix (the entrance to the uterus from the vagina).  

Around 99% of cervical cancer cases are linked to infection with high-risk human papillomaviruses (HPV) which is a common virus transmitted through sexual activity. Whilst most infections with HPV cause no symptoms and resolve spontaneously, persistent infection can cause cervical cancer.

Effective screening such as a smear test checks the health of a cervix and looks for HPV which can cause the growth of abnormal cells. If abnormal cells are found, necessary treatment can start promptly in order to prevent cancer.

Cervical cancer is one of the most successfully treatable forms of cancer, as long as it is detected early and treated appropriately.

Facts

  • Around 3,200 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer in the United Kingdom each year.
  • Cervical Cancer is the most common form of cancer in women aged 30 – 34.
  • Most cervical cancers are caused by a sexually transmitted infection called human papillomavirus (HPV).
  • More than 8 women in the United Kingdom are diagnosed with cervical cancer every day.
  • On average, 2 women in the United Kingdom die every day from cervical cancer.
  • Cervical screening can prevent up to 75% cases of cervical cancer.
  • A smear test takes 5 – 10 minutes.
  • Early detection is key to improving your chances of survival.
  • Cervical screening can save your life.

 

The medical negligence team at Bell Lax Solicitors support the central message of the Cervical Screening Awareness Week and we urge all women to undergo regular cervical screening and respond to screening invitations.

If you or a loved one have concerns regarding a diagnosis of cervical cancer, contact our medical negligence team for helpful advice on 0121 355 0011.

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