As Cervical Cancer Prevention Week ends, NHS Lincolnshire ICB reminds people that cervical cancer can kill. However, regular screening saves thousands of lives every year.

In England and Wales all women and people with a cervix aged 25 to 64 are invited to cervical screening, also known as a smear test, every three to five years.

Cervical screening does not test for cancer. Instead, it helps prevent cancer by detecting early abnormalities in the cervix, allowing treatment before they develop into cancer. If left untreated, these abnormalities can cause cervical cancer (cancer of the neck of the womb).

The latest figures for Lincolnshire show that 72.97% of eligible people aged 25 to 64 have attended screening. However, we encourage everyone eligible to participate and discuss the procedure with a nurse beforehand. Adjustments can make the process more comfortable.

Research shows that awareness of cervical cancer and screening uptake are much lower among women from minority ethnic communities compared to the wider population.

Dr Sunil Hindocha, GP and Medical Director for NHS Lincolnshire Integrated Care Board, said:

“Having your cervical screening sample taken should only take a matter of minutes. In the UK, GPs and practice nurses take the majority of cervical screening samples.

“You can bring a relative or friend with you, and you can request a female nurse or GP to take the sample. As with all cancers, the earlier a problem is spotted, the better the patient’s outcome. Screening saves lives, and we are committed to helping and encouraging everyone eligible to access this vital service.”

For more information about cervical cancer and the Cervical Cancer Prevention Week, visit:  We are the leading gynae cancers charity – The Eve Appeal