Marie Stopes International welcomes government review of the UK’s cervical screening policy

English women may soon be entitled to the same screening services as women across the rest of the UK

The Department of Health today announced that experts are to review evidence to determine whether women under the age of 25 should be routinely screened for cervical cancer. Following the announcement, leading sexual health agency Marie Stopes International (MSI) issued the following statement:

“We are delighted that the Department of Health are re-considering their decision to cut routine screening for under 25’s. Cervical screening currently begins at age 20 for women in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, but women in England have to wait until they are 25. Since the beginning of this year, Marie Stopes International has been calling for NHS cervical screening to be standardised across the UK, so that all women start testing at the age of 20.

“Jade Goody’s case has shown that cervical cancer, whilst extremely rare among women under 30, does nevertheless represent a potential threat to their lives and wellbeing. Early detection and treatment can prevent around 75% of cervical cancers developing in women, so an about-turn from the Government to offer screening from a younger age could save lives.

“The recent introduction of a cervical cancer vaccination programme ironically makes screening all the more important. The vaccine is not a bullet-proof shield against cervical cancer, but there is concern that once vaccinated some young girls may think they are ‘safe’. It is therefore vital to encourage girls to start thinking about their own cervical health as early as possible, and to develop a screening culture amongst young women to ensure as many cases of this preventable form of cancer are detected as possible.

“The Department of Health concerns itself with the provision of standardised high-quality care for all, and with promoting a culture of prevention rather than cure. It is therefore nonsensical that English women have to wait for a preventative cancer screening service that is provided five years earlier to women living in the rest of the UK, so we are thrilled that the government is reassessing their screening policy."

All quotes above are attributable to Tony Kerridge, Marie Stopes International Spokesperson.

Categories: United Kingdom; Europe; Advocacy & campaigning; Health screening; Primary health care; Young people

13/03/2009

Marie Stopes International welcomes government review of the UK’s cervical screening policy

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