It’s Cervical Cancer Prevention Week

Jump start January is about changing an undesired trait or jump-starting a new interest to accomplish a personal goal or otherwise improve your lifestyle.

As this week is Cervical Cancer Prevention Week (20-26 January), we’re looking to abolish some of the myths around cervical screening.

What is cervical screening?
• Cervical screening (a smear test) checks the health of your cervix. The cervix is the opening to your womb from your vagina
• It’s not a test for cancer; it’s a test to help prevent cancer
• The sample is tested for changes to the cells of your cervix

Why is cervical screening important?
• Cervical screening is one of the best ways to protect yourself from cervical cancer
• Smear tests checks the health of your cervix

When will you be invited for cervical screening?
• Under 25 – up to 6 months before you turn 25
• 25 to 49 – every 3 years
• 50 to 64 – every 5 years
• 65 or older – only if 1 of your last 3 tests was abnormal

For more information on cervical screening, visit the NHS website.

Myth busting

Myth 1
I’m not eligible for screening.

Cervical screening is a free routine test for all women aged between 25 and 64.

Myth 2
I have to see my GP practice for the screening test.

You don’t have to go to your GP you can choose to have the test at a family planning service too.

Myth 3
Screening doesn’t do any good.

Cervical screening prevents around 4,500 cases of cervical cancer in the UK every year.

Myth 4
The test will tell me I have cancer.

The test is not a test for cancer. It aims to prevent cancer by detecting changes, which if left untreated could lead to cervical cancer.

Click to see some more myths that have been busted.

How can I help raise awareness?

West Essex CCG is running sessions throughout February to equip colleagues with the skills, knowledge and tools, to share information across the CCG and community.

What will be discussed?

1. What is cervical cancer and how is it caused?
2. What are the signs and symptoms?
3. How can cervical cancer be prevented?
4. What stops women going to get a smear test?

For more information, to get involved and to register your interest, email Mica Marshall, Senior Communications and Engagement Officer.

Let’s kill those myths and jump-start one another to promote the importance of cervical screening.