The NHS in the Midlands is calling on those who are eligible to book their cervical screening appointments as around 30% of people aged 25-49 are not up to date and around 25% of those aged 50-64.

The call comes as cervical cancer charity Jo’s Trust holds its annual Cervical Screening Awareness Week (19- 24 June) to raise awareness of cervical cancer and to drive uptake of screening.

The NHS Cervical Screening Programme saves thousands of lives every year by checking for high-risk Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a group of viruses that cause nearly all cervical cancers.

High risk HPV testing (performed at a cervical screening) is a sensitive and highly accurate test that can identify those who are at higher risk of developing the cervical cell changes that over time could potentially lead to cervical cancer.

Around 2,700 people are diagnosed with cervical cancer in England every year and approximately 690 die from the disease.

Last year the NHS sent out more than 5 million screening invitations in England, and more than 3.5 million people came forward.

The test is very straightforward. If you have received an invitation, then contact your GP practice to book as soon as possible. Evening and weekend appointments may be available. The test takes a few minutes, and results are available in around 2 weeks. Some local sexual health services also offer cervical screening.

Roz Lindridge, Director of Commissioning at NHS England in the Midlands, said:

“If you have received an invitation for cervical screening, or missed your last screening, please don’t wait to make an appointment. I know life is busy, but screening really does save lives – please put your health at the top of your to-do list and book that appointment with your GP practice or sexual health clinic today. It might just save your life.

“Some people may feel worried or embarrassed about the screening itself, but your clinician at your GP practice or sexual health service will help you feel at ease and treat you with dignity when carrying out this important check.

“Through cervical screening and treating cell changes, as well as the HPV vaccination, we hope to prevent cervical cancer from ever developing and ultimately eradicate it altogether in the future.”