January 22nd–28th is Cervical Cancer Prevention Week. Our editor Lauren talks through ten things you might not know about cervical cancer and screenings…
1. Cervical cancer is the most common cancer in women aged 35 and under. Around 3,000 women in the UK will be diagnosed every year. A huge 75% (three out of four) of cervical cancers are prevented by cervical screening (smear tests). Cervical Cancer Prevention Week aims to raise awareness of cervical screening and the symptoms of cervical cancer.
2. Cervical screening is free through the NHS and reduces the risk of getting cervical cancer. In the UK, the NHS provides a cervical screening programme for all women who are registered with a GP. Since the screening programme began in the 1980s, the number of women who develop cervical cancer has gone down by about 7% each year.
3. Cervical cancer is not thought to be hereditary. In over 99% of cases, cervical cancer is the result of a change in cell DNA caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV). HPV is very common and is spread through skin contact, often during sex. Around 80% (four out of five) of sexually active adults will get some type of HPV in their lives. But for most women this will not result in cervical cancer.
4. Despite the figures, one in four women (25%) don’t attend their screenings when invited. Over the last ten years, rates of cervical cancer in younger women have increased, which is why it’s so important to not put off this potentially life-saving test.
5. Cervical screening is not a test for cancer. It’s a way of checking for early changes to cells of the cervix. But it can help to prevent cervical cancer by finding early abnormalities that could develop into cancer if left untreated. Some women are told they have HPV when they get their results, but it’s usually nothing to be alarmed about.
In the video below, a consultant gynaecological surgeon explains how cervical screening can prevent cancer:
6. Cervical screenings can be done by your nurse or GP. You’ll be sent a letter inviting you to make an appointment. They can also be done at a family planning clinic, Well Woman clinic, sexual health clinic, genitourinary clinic or at a private clinic.
7. Cervical screening is quick and painless. Your first screening can be a daunting experience, but it’s really nothing to worry about. During the test, your doctor or nurse takes a sample of cells from your cervix. It’s a simple procedure and takes less than five minutes. It can be a bit uncomfortable but shouldn’t be painful.
8. The age range for screening is the same across the UK. In the UK:
9. Most women have a normal result. You should get your results about two weeks after the test. If abnormal cells are found during your cervical screening test, it doesn’t mean you have cancer. In some cases, if these cell changes aren’t treated, they could develop into cancer later on. If you have moderate or severe cell changes, you’ll usually be referred for a further test called a colposcopy.
10. A colposcopy involves a detailed examination of your cervix. It helps confirm whether you have cervical intra-epitheial neoplasia (CIN) and how severe it is. CIN is when changes happen in the surface (squamous) cells of the cervix. We have more information about colposcopies here.
If you are worried or have any questions about your results, you can talk to your GP, or call us on 0808 808 00 00. Our online community cervical cancer group is also a great source of support and advice.
More information
We have more information about cervical cancer and cervical screening. Or, you can order a free copy of our booklet Understanding CIN (cervical intra-epithelial neoplasia).
To get involved with Cervical Cancer Awareness Week, visit the Jo’s Cancer Trust website. You can help them through fundraising, donating or campaigning. At 11am on 22 January 2017 women shared their #SmearForSmear to raise awareness of the importance of smear tests in preventing cervical cancer.
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