Group reminds local ladies of importance of cervical screening

AS EASTENDERS character Tanya Branning comes to terms with being diagnosed with cervical cancer, local ladies are being reminded of the importance of cervical screening.

The North East Lincolnshire Cancer Collaborative is hosting a series of events to raise awareness of the importance of smear tests in the early diagnosis of cervical cancer.

RAISING AWARENESS: EastEnders character Tanya Branning has been diagnosed with cervical cancer.

It comes after the BBC1 soap character was diagnosed with cervical cancer following a routine smear test.

Julie Grimmer, Cancer Collaborative programme manager, said: "Thanks to the NHS cervical screening programme in the UK, doctors can find and treat early changes in the cervix before they develop into cancer.

"All women between the ages of 25 and 64 are eligible for a free cervical screening test every three years for those aged 25 to 50, and then every five years after the age of 50.

"It is very important that women attend these appointments as we know that cervical screening can save lives. It is estimated that the NHS cervical screening programme saves 4,500 lives every year."

 SAVING LIVES: Abnormal cells in a cervical screening.

 

Although it is estimated that cervical screening saves 4,500 lives every year, 20 per cent of women did not take up their smear test invitations last year.

There are currently 2,800 new cases of cervical cancer diagnosed every year. It is the second most common cancer in women under 35, although it remains very rare in women under 25.

Cervical cancer awareness events will be held at:

Chantry Health Group in Cartergate, Grimsby, from 9.30am to noon on Wednesday, September 7.

Tesco in Hewitt's Circus from 9.30am to 1pm on Tuesday, September 13.

Matalan in Alexandra Retail Park, Grimsby, from 11am to 2pm on Thursday, September 15.

As well as the events, Cancer Collaborative community team members will be working with staff at the Grimsby Institute and visiting local hairdressers, beauty salons and shops with resources to help raise awareness.

As reported, cervical screening helps doctors find changes in the cells of the cervix before they have chance to develop into cancer.

Treating these changes at an early stage can prevent cervical cancer from developing.

The signs and symptoms of cervical cancer to look out for include bleeding between periods, bleeding during or after sex, bleeding after you have been though the menopause, unpleasant vaginal discharge and discomfort or pain during sex.

These symptoms aren't always due to cervical cancer, but anyone experiencing them should visit their GP.

Find out more:

Residents can get more information about the cancer collaborative and the work it does by calling Julie Grimmer on 01472 232261 or e-mailing julie.grimmer@nhs.net