A third of women who missed smear tests in the last year didn't go due to Covid-19
As coronavirus continues to affect our everyday lives in many ways, one medical area it's disrupting is cervical screenings.
A new survey conducted by gynaecological cancer charity The Eve Appeal found that almost a third of women (28%) still hadn’t attended their cervical screening during the last 12 months.
The main reason for women choosing not to attend was due to being worried about the virus (21%), while 10% admitted they didn’t think their test would go ahead due to restrictions. Meanwhile, 17% had been put off by a past bad experience.
Cervical screenings (also known as smear tests) check cervix health and are crucial in helping to prevent cervical cancer. They are estimated to save over 4,000 lives each year. All women and people with a cervix aged 25 to 64 are invited by letter from their doctor every three to five years for their screening. While it may not be your favourite event in the diary, it’s an incredibly important one.
During Cervical Cancer Prevention Week, The Eve Appeal is encouraging everyone who can to book and attend their cervical screening test when invited and to get any symptoms checked out.
Athena Lamnisos, CEO, The Eve Appeal, said: “We want to send out a clear message – book your screening appointment if you’re invited, be symptoms aware and see your GP if you have concerns.
“Cancer doesn’t stop during a pandemic and delays to referrals and to diagnosis can be devastating. If you have any concerns or worries about booking or attending an appointment, chat to your GP surgery or call our nurse-led information service Ask Eve. We’re here and open for you.”
Ask Eve is here to help anyone with any worries or concerns about their gynae health or who require support or further information about cervical screening. The specialist nurse service, Ask Eve, is available by phone and email: nurse@eveappeal.org.uk or 0808 802 0019.
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