Have you been putting off your cervical screening? Whether it’s due to work, family commitments, or feeling nervous or unsure about the procedure, you’re not alone.
In Liverpool, nearly one-third of those eligible haven’t attended their cervical screening appointments, often unaware of how lifesaving this 5-minute test can be.
Cervical Cancer Prevention Week (21–28 January) is a vital time to highlight the importance of cervical screening, its role in prevention, and the benefits of early detection.
Screening can prevent up to 70% of cervical cancer deaths, according to NHS data.
Health officials are strongly encouraging those aged 25 to 64 to prioritise their screening and take a simple step towards protecting their health – don’t wait, book your appointment today.
People are also being reminded that if they missed their last GP appointment they don’t need to wait for another letter.
GPs also reassure people that screenings are handled with the utmost care and sensitivity and urge individuals to bring a family member or friend if preferred.
To make screening more accessible, the NHS is trialling a mobile cervical screening service from January to March.
These drop-in sessions don’t require an appointment, and people can find updates on the Liverpool City Council and NHS Cheshire and Merseyside social media pages.
For information about when and where drop-in sessions will take place, please go to: https://www.cwp.nhs.uk/livingwellservice – Click Cervical Screening.
Councillor Harry Doyle, Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Culture said: “The State of Health in the City 2040 report predicted a rise in the number of people living with cancers and other health conditions.
“We need to do things differently if we are to change these projections. The coordinated efforts of commissioners, the NHS, and Liverpool City Council, have shown that new approaches, vaccines and effective screening programmes offer a possibility of a future without cervical cancer.”
Prof Matt Ashton, Director of Public Health, Liverpool City Council, said “The combination of the HPV vaccination and cervical screening programme has made cervical cancer almost completely preventable.
“It is important to book and attend your cervical screening appointment, even if you have had the HPV vaccination. Screening helps detect changes in cells, meaning they can be treated before they have the chance to develop into cancer. Cancer screening saves lives.”
Dr Jill Kirkman, Cancer Lead GP at NHS Liverpool Place said “Cervical screening can seem daunting, but it is important to remember that we will do our best to make the appointment feel comfortable and pain free.
“If you have received an invitation to attend cervical screening, or have missed your last screening, contact your GP practice to book an appointment.”
