Did you know that 99.8% of cervical cancer cases in the UK are preventable?
January marks Cervical Cancer Awareness month, an opportunity to shine a spotlight on one of the most preventable forms of cancer and to encourage action that could save lives.
Cervical cancer - the facts
Cervical cancer affects the cervix, the lower part of the womb, and is primarily caused by persistent infection with high-risk types of the human papillomavirus (HPV). In the UK, nearly all cases of cervical cancer are linked to HPV, which can also lead to other cancers and conditions. Despite its prevalence, cervical cancer is highly preventable through vaccination and early detection.
The HPV vaccine
The HPV vaccine is a key pillar in the fight against cervical cancer. In the UK, it is offered to all children aged 12 to 13 as part of the NHS vaccination programme. The vaccine provides protection against the most high-risk strains of HPV that are responsible for around 70% of cervical cancer cases. According to Public Health England, the HPV vaccination programme has already significantly reduced HPV infections and pre-cancerous cervical disease in young women.
Missed the vaccine? It's not too late. If you or your child missed the vaccine at school, you can contact your GP practice to check eligibility and arrange for the immunisation. Ensuring vaccinations are up to date is a simple but vital step to safeguard against cervical cancer.
The Importance of cervical screening
In addition to vaccination, regular cervical screening (also known as a smear test) is crucial. Screening detects changes in the cells of the cervix before they develop into cancer. All women and people with a cervix aged 25 to 64 are invited for screening every three to five years, depending on age.
Screening is free on the NHS and could prevent thousands of cases of cervical cancer each year. Yet, many eligible individuals do not attend their appointments with barriers such as embarrassment, fear or lack of understand and awareness of the process being the reasons given.
The following NHS video helps to answer some of the most common questions around cervical screening. Why not watch and share if you learn something new. Cervical Screening - Your questions answered.
Prevention is empowerment
Raising awareness about cervical cancer and its prevention is more than a public health message; it is a call to action. Here are some steps you can take:
- Check your vaccination status: Whether for yourself or your child, ensure HPV vaccinations are up to date. Check your immunisation record via the NHS App or contact your GP practice and make an appointment if you have missed a dose.
- Book Your Screening: If you are eligible, make sure you attend your cervical screening appointment. It could be life-saving.
- Spread the Word: Encourage friends and family to stay informed about cervical cancer prevention.
- If something doesn’t feel right speak to a health professional: You know your body best and so if you feel that something isn’t right contact your GP practice for an appointment.
For more information, the NHS website offers comprehensive resources on the HPV vaccine and cervical screening. Charities such as Cancer Research UK and Macmillan Cancer Support also provide advice and support to those affected by cervical cancer.