Nick Smith MP Labour MP for Blaenau Gwent
Blaenau Gwent MP Nick Smith is supporting Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust this Cervical Cancer Prevention Week (January 21-27).
This week Nick Smith MP and Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust have been raising awareness about how women can reduce their risk of cervical cancer, something more than 3,200 women are diagnosed with every year in the UK.
Cervical screening uptake is at an all-time low in Wales. This is despite the test being the best protection against the disease, followed by the HPV vaccine offered in schools.
Uptake is at just 76.1%, meaning that one in four women are not booking a potentially life-saving test.
This week Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust has published new research which found young women who delay or don’t go for cervical screening feel scared (71%), vulnerable (75%) and embarrassed (81%) at the thought of going.
Nick Smith MP said: “Cervical screening prevents up to 75% of cervical cancers developing.
“It is worrying that so many women are not attending when invited for a test, because they feel scared or embarrassed.
“This Cervical Cancer Prevention Week I am happy to support Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust in raising awareness of how important this potentially life-saving test is.”
Robert Music, Chief Executive of Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust said: “We are delighted to have Nick Smith MP’s support to help raise awareness about the importance of cervical screening.
“Smear tests provide the best protection against cervical cancer yet we know they aren’t always easy.
“We want women to feel comfortable talking to their nurse and asking questions. It’s not making a fuss and there are many ways to make the test easier. Please don’t let your fears stop you booking a test.”
Visit jostrust.org.uk/smearforsmear for information.