This week, 22nd to 28th January, is cervical cancer prevention week. The theme is “reduce your risk”.

Cervical cancer can be prevented, Jo Cox’s Cervical Cancer Trust has released new figures to help bring awareness to the low number of women getting smear tests.

These figures show that London boroughs have some of the lowest statistics for women getting smear tests.

Tower Hamlets, Barnet, Westminster and Barnet were among the boroughs with the lowest levels of smear tests in London.  The number of Tower Hamlets women having smear tests is 10% below the national average.

Another issue is that there is a percentage of women who book smear test appointments and do not turn up. Hackney is 20% below the national average of women actually attending their appointments.

Facts on cervical cancer:

  • NHS England recommends that women over the age of 25 get screened every year.
  • 2 women a day loose their lives to cervical cancer.
  • 9 women a day are diagnosed with cervical cancer.
  • 75% of cervical cancers can be prevented by cervical screening (smear tests).

What can be done to reduce the risks of cervical cancer?

  • Attend cervical screenings once a year
  • Know the symptoms of cervical cancer and seek medical advice if experiencing any of them
  • Take the HPV vaccination if aged between 11-18
  • Talk to friends and family to ensure they know how to reduce their risk
  • Know where to find support and further information

More information can be found on the Jo Cox Cervical Cancer Trust website.