Smear tests can save lives

ONE in five women in Dumfries and Galloway are overdue for a cervical test, it has been revealed.

Currently, 8500 women within the region who are eligible to be screened for cervical cancer are not up-to-date with what could be a lifesaving test.

In response, NHS Dumfries and Galloway has launched the ‘Help Us Help You Get Screened’ campaign to coincide with World Cervical Cancer Elimination Day, which fell on 17 November.

Their message is aimed at all women locally, aged 25 to 64, eligible for screening.

Dr Fiona O’Brien, GP at Annan South Practice and GP lead for cancer in Dumfries and Galloway, said: “As we launch this campaign a key message is to let women know to contact their practice with any queries, concerns or difficulties they may have in relation to having a smear test. It’s really important women know that practice staff are here to help.

“The rise in the number of women in the region not attending for smears is concerning - from 15 to 20 percent of the eligible population. This is a test that can prevent the distress that comes with a diagnosis of cervical cancer. This is a test that saves lives.”

There is also a focus on women who are vulnerable or disadvantaged, as many typically are not getting screened if they don’t have the right support, to arrange booking a smear test and attending the appointment.

Dr Heather Currie, locum consultant gynaecologist at NHS Dumfries and Galloway, added: “We know that a future free of cervical cancer is possible; provided all eligible women are screened, and all school age girls and boys get the HPV vaccination.

“We have set up a dedicated group at NHS Dumfries and Galloway to address this issue of increasing rates of women not taking up cervical screening. We are working on an ambitious plan to see those numbers of women overdue with cervical screening fall, and for those who are up to date to continue booking their smear test at the regular interval, when notified by the screening service.”

Details of how to book a cervical screening are now on display in GP practices and on the NHS website.