Thank you for contacting me about cervical cancer prevention and screening.
It is right that this year’s Cervical Cancer Prevention Week is focusing on the importance of cervical screening in saving lives and preventing cervical cancer. Early diagnosis is key to overcoming cervical cancer and, saving an estimated 5,000 lives in England every year.
Currently, all women between the ages of 25 and 64 are offered the opportunity to be screened routinely to detect cervical abnormalities at an early stage.
Therefore, I am concerned to hear that uptake of cervical screening and HPV vaccination is lower than before the pandemic, and I strongly support the Government’s efforts to encourage women of screening age to make an informed decision to attend when invited. In addition, the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities is closely considering what further steps can be taken to continually improve the uptake of screening.
Following recommendations from the UK National Screening Committee (NSC), Human papillomavirus (HPV) screening has been the primary screen for cervical disease since 2019. This test is a more effective way to determine whether a person has any risk of developing cervical cancer and will save more lives.
The Department of Health and Social Care has taken forward a number of recommendations made in the Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust report, “Computer Says No”, which include greater flexibility for women invited for a cervical screening appointment to be able to book at a range of primary care settings. Many providers now offer evening and weekend appointments.
As part of Cervical Cancer Prevention Week this year, Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust has published a report highlighting the experiences of women facing an unexpected screening test result. I recognise the need for better signposting and information for women following cervical cancer screening and the role of national health bodies and Royal Colleges to improve this provision.
Thank you again for taking the time to contact me.