Margot James MP is supporting Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust this Cervical Cancer Prevention Week

Over 3,200 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer every year in the UK, yet it is one of the only cancers that can be prevented and one day become a disease of the past.

Cervical screening (smear tests) are the best protection against the disease, followed by the HPV vaccine offered in schools. Yet cervical screening uptake is at a 21-year low in England. It is at just 71.4%, meaning that more than one in four women are not booking a potentially life-saving test.

This week Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust has published new research which has found that, of the young women who delay or don’t go for cervical screening, 71% feel scared and 81% claim to be embarrassed at the thought of going. A worrying two thirds (67%) say they would not feel in control at the prospect of a test. Ms James said:

“I am thrilled to be supporting this campaign as it is absolutely vital that women get their smear tests done. Attendance is at an all-time low, and this is why collectively we need to get the message out there of the importance of having this test.

“Cervical screening prevents up to 75% of cervical cancers developing. I understand that some are going to feel embarrassed and possibly worried about the test, but this screening saves lives and it is important to reinforce that.”