Cervical screening saves lives - launches today!

Following a successful campaign in Middlesbrough, the ‘Cervical screening saves lives’ programme is launching across the North East with the support of the NHS, local authorities and Northern Cancer Alliance.  The launch will coincide with the national cervical cancer prevention week 20-26 January 2020, both of which aim to raise awareness among women aged 25-64 of the risks of cervical cancer and the importance of attending for cervical screening.

 

Research shows that cervical screening prevents at least 2,000 cervical cancer deaths each year in the UK. However, on average, one in four women are not attending their cervical screening test and uptake across the North East as a whole is significantly lower.

A number of GP practices across Teesside, Darlington, Hambleton, Richmondshire and Whitby are also taking part in the Salons for Screening incentive scheme, offering discounts at local businesses for women who have taken their test. Visit www.screeningsaveslives.co.uk to find out more about the Screen Stars reward card.

Sheron Robson, programme manager with Northern Cancer Alliance, said, “While some women will have made an informed choice to decline screening, research shows that for many, non-attendance is mainly due to a lack of knowledge of the risks of cervical cancer and poor understanding of the benefits of screening.

“We would encourage women to get on board with this exciting campaign and visit the website to see which businesses are offering fantastic rewards.”

Many local GP practices will also be signing up to become a ‘No Fear service’, offering a range of supportive measures, such as booking appointments online, back-to-back buddy appointments, requesting a female practitioner, and bringing a friend along for support.