Doncaster women urged to keep up with smear tests

Over the past three years, over one in four of eligible women have chosen not to have a cervical smear examination, even though it’s important not to leave screening for later or put it off.

The picture has been steadily worsening. In 2019-20, 74.4 per cent of Doncaster women were screened within the recommended time period. The figure dropped to 72.6 per cent in 2020-21 and further to 72.0 per cent in 2021-22, the latest available figures.

Now staff from Doncaster’s Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Service (MCISS) are using this year’s Cervical Cancer Prevention Week (23-29 January 2023) to remind local women that the risk of developing this type of cancer can be reduced by following some simple advice.

“It’s vitally important to attend for a cervical screening appointment said Jo O’Marr, from the MCISS, which is run by Rotherham Doncaster and South Humber NHS Foundation Trust (RDaSH).

“Understanding what the symptoms of cervical cancer are and seeking medical advice when experiencing them is vitally important, as is having the HPV vaccine when aged 11 to 18 and encouraging others to do so. Cervical screening is a very important examination.”

Since 2014, 55 Doncaster women have died from cervical cancer, with 2022 seeing nine deaths – the highest annual number over the past nine years, and three more than in 2021.

Cervical screening is available to women – and people with a cervix – aged 25 to 64. The first invitation is sent at the age of 24.5 years. Those aged 25 to 49 receive invitations every three years and every five years from the age of 50 to 64.

Doncaster’s Macmillan Cancer Information and Support Service offers a range of information as well as financial, emotional and practical help to people affected by cancer and can refer to other services and health and social care professionals. The team also provide information on the warning signs of a range of cancers and advice on how to reduce cancer risk.

If you are worried about signs and symptoms, or notice any changes, please contact your GP straight away. For further information and support please contact the Service on 03000 214853, or email: [email protected]

You can find out more about this year’s Cervical Cancer Prevention Week at: https://www.jostrust.org.uk/get-involved/campaign/cervical-cancer-prevention-week