Thirty per cent of eligible women were not up to date with the check, latest figures show. The top reason was embarrassment (42 per cent). This was followed by just “putting it off” (34 per cent) and fearing it would be painful (28 per cent). Celebrities including Linda Robson, Louise Minchin and Scarlett Moffatt are starring in a short film alongside medics to raise awareness.
Loose Women panellist Linda said: “I think it’s so important to talk about cervical screening – I talk to my daughters about it regularly and always encourage them to book if they are due. I want to do the same for everyone, as it can save your life.
“Don’t put off your cervical screenings and if you have any worries, don’t sit there in silence. Doctors and nurses can talk to you about the process and what it entails.”
Around 2,700 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer in England each year and 690 die from the dis- ease, equal to two every day. Screening, or smear tests, are thought to prevent 70 per cent of cervical cancer deaths, but this could rise to 83 per cent if every woman attended.
The test looks for abnormal changes in the cells of the cervix, caused by high-risk types of the Human Papilloma Virus.
These changes can be treated before they get a chance to develop into cancer.
In a survey of 3,000 women aged 25-64, commissioned by the Department of Health and Social Care, 81 per cent said their nurse or doctor had put them at ease. Dr Nikki Kanani, medical director for primary care at NHS England, urged people to discuss any concerns with their GP practice.
She said: “There is no doubt about it – cervical screening saves lives.”
The “Help Us Help You – Cervical Screening Saves Lives” campaign will run for a month with TV and online adverts.
Women will get an invitation in the post when they are due for their test.
