Data has shown that MILLIONS OF women could be at high risk for silent killer cancer because of the drop in test results.
NHS Digital has published figures showing that 5.12 million people were eligible for screenings for cervical cancer between 2021-22.
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Only 3.5m of these women attended screening appointments, meaning that many people are still at high risk for illness.
Cancer Research UK estimates that cervical cancer is responsible for around 853 deaths annually in the UK. There are over 3,000 reported cases.
This is also known as the silent killer because it usually presents with no symptoms early on.
The number of test performed has increased by 15% over last year. However, coverage for those between 25 and 49 was lower than it was in previous years, falling to 66.7 per cent, from 69% in 2021.
A charity warned us that we need to raise awareness in order to save more lives.
Samantha Dixon, Chief Executive Officer Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust It is possible to avoid cervical cancer by having your cervical checked.
“While it’s positive more women were tested in the previous year, overall the number who are up to date has fallen.
“In addition, increasing awareness is important. We also need to invent and seek out new solutions like self-sampling. This could make it easier for people to get the potentially life-saving test.
“The pandemic’s impact on the NHS and continued pressures from it have had an enormous impact. We often hear about women who are unable to access screening appointments or experiencing delay in their results.
“There are many reasons screening can be difficult, and we must focus on removing these barriers.”
Data from this year showed that almost one third of the eligible persons aged 25-64 were not being screened.
This report was published by NHS Digital Today’s findings also revealed that the coverage rate was higher in the 50-64 year old age bracket at 74.66%, slightly less than 74.7% in 2021.
These are the 4 symptoms of cervical cancer that you should know
According to the NHS, there are some symptoms that you need to be aware of when dealing with cervical cancer.
These are:
- Bleeding you find unusual – even between sex and between your periods
- Vaginal discharge changes
- Pain during sex
- You may feel pain in the lower back, hips or lower stomach.
Guidance states, however, that symptoms such as those described above may be caused by another condition, like endometriosis and fibroids.
If you’re feeling uneasy or worried, your GP should be consulted immediately.
The country’s coverage varied by region. However, experts at NHS believe that statistical data may be affected by the Covid epidemic.
During that time, the GP encouraged women to still visit them for their smear testing.
Many people were afraid of the bugs and didn’t want to risk their lives for lifesaving tests.
Screening is not a screening for cancer, but a tool to prevent it from happening.
The health check is done by your cervix. All women 25 to 64 years old should receive a letter inviting them.
A small amount of your cells will be collected during the appointment.
Next, you will be tested for HPV. This virus can alter the cells within your cervix.
You will be sent for additional testing if dangerous substances are found.
You should consult your GP if you are concerned about your symptoms.
Always dial 999 in an emergency situation