Cervical screening initiative targets women in Caithness
Women in Caithness are being urged to undergo cervical screening tests as part of an awareness week.
WOMEN in Caithness are being urged to take up invitations for cervical screening tests as part of Cervical Screening Awareness Week which starts today (Monday).
Women aged 20 to 60 years can reduce their risk of cervical cancer by having a free, quick, screening test every three years.
It is estimated screening and treating early changes in the cervix prevents around three quarters of cervical cancers developing. Unfortunately, some women do not take part.
During 2008, 305 women across Scotland were diagnosed with cervical cancer and 102 women died from the condition. About half of women who get cervical cancer have not undergone regular screening and their cancers are usually more advanced.
Many young women will now have been vaccinated against the human papilloma virus. HPV infection is a risk factor for cervical cancer. However, there are different types of HPV and the vaccine does not protect against all of them.
Therefore, NHS Highland is urging all women aged 20 to 60 years to take part in cervical screening.
Consultant in public health medicine and NHS Highland’s cervical screening co-ordinator Dr Rob Henderson said: "Cervical screening aims to pick up early changes in the cervix so these can be assessed and treated if necessary. Some changes may increase the chance of cervical cancer occurring. However, it’s possible to treat these changes, meaning many cervical cancers can be prevented before they have even had a chance to develop.
"Participation in the cervical screening programme is high within Highland. However, almost a fifth of women who are invited for screening don’t take up the offer. Women in their 20s are less likely to take part than women aged 30 years and over. I would encourage all women invited to take part in cervical screening to do so.
"Vaccination will stop the HPV infections that lead to four fifths of cancers, but screening is the only way to pick up the other ones."
Women can attend their GP practice for cervical screening. In addition, screening is also available at sexual health/contraception clinics. For information on clinic times and locations, phone 01463 704552.