Cervical Cancer Prevention Week
People entitled to a cervical smear test are being reminded of the importance of taking up their appointments.
Around one in four women and people with a cervix don’t attend cervical screening (smear tests). This Cervical Cancer Prevention Week (17 – 23 January), staff at Dudley Public Health are on a mission to change that by renewing their calls for residents to have a smear test when asked to do so.
Smear tests are offered to all women and anyone with a cervix aged 25 years and over. It is a quick and simple health check for the cervix and helps detect very early changes that may lead to cancer, meaning it can be easily treated before it even develops.
It takes around 5 minutes and people can have a smear test any time, except during their period.
Councillor Nicolas Barlow, cabinet member for health and adult social care, said:
Cervical screening is a really quick and simple way to look after your health.
It only takes five minutes, but could genuinely save your life and we hope that everyone eligible takes up the offer. Even if you’ve ignored letters in the past, you can still make an appointment, it doesn’t matter if you’ve put it off in the past. What matters is making that phone call and booking yourself in.
Whether you get a letter asking you to book your test, or if you have ignored one before, book your free smear test at your doctor’s surgery. It’s free and confidential.
Five tips to make smear tests easier:
- There’s no need to feel embarrassed. You’ll be seen by an experienced, understanding professional who knows how to help put you at your ease
- Wear something comfy and easy to get on and off
- Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Speak to your friends, the nurse, just ask whatever you want to know – there is no pressure to have the test
- If you’re nervous, ask in advance for the nurse to give you a double appointment to give you more time to talk and not feel rushed
- Why not buy yourself a treat to have after your smear test – like a hot drink, a magazine, or whatever it is that makes you happy
For more information on cervical screening, or on what may happen if you are told that you have cervical cell changes, go to Jo’s Trust https://www.jostrust.org.uk/information
For further details on all your health needs, go to www.lets-get.com