The NHS Cervical Screening Programme saves an estimated 5,000 lives every year in the UK and provides the best protection against cervical cancer. However, uptake of this life-saving test is at a 19 year low and incidence of cervical cancer is worryingly high with nine women diagnosed with the disease every day in the UK. The National Target for the uptake of cervical screening is 80%. In Hammersmith and Fulham CCG performance is currently 58%.
Hammersmith & Fulham GP Federation together with the Royal Marsden Vanguard are launching a campaign to raise more awareness of this issue and to take practical steps to increase uptake.
Who is eligible for a smear test
- Women aged 25–49 invited every 3 years
- Women aged 50–64 invited every 5 years
Your doctor usually sends a letter inviting you for a smear test. If they don’t, ask them or make an appointment with the nurse in GPs (Book a date when you are not having your period).
A smear test is nothing to be embarrassed about, the staff have undertake many of this relatively painless procedure and nothing will phase them.
This simple little test could save you or someone you love life – encourage them to go
The link below provides some useful information that might be of help
For further information contact – carolinedurack@nhs.net
