This Cervical Cancer Prevention Week, the Public Health Agency (PHA) is reminding women of the importance of attending for cervical screening when invited. 

Screening is aimed at detecting early cell changes that could go on to develop into cancer if they are not treated.

Between 2018 and 2022, there was an average of 84 people diagnosed with cervical cancer annually in Northern Ireland, with around 21 deaths per year. 

Dr Joanne McClean, Director of Public Health at the PHA, said: “Cervical cancer is one of the few cancers that can be prevented thanks to screening, so it is really important to attend for cervical screening when invited. It could save your life.

“Nearly all cervical cancers are caused by persistent infection with human papillomavirus, known as HPV. It is a very common virus – about 8 out of 10 people catch it at some point in their lives. The virus usually causes no symptoms and is mainly spread by skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity. In most cases, the body’s immune system will clear the virus and it doesn’t cause any problems, but in some people the virus can stay in the body for many years.”

Cervical screening, as with all screening programmes, doesn’t guarantee that cancer will not develop in the future, as there’s a small chance that screening does not detect an issue, and cancer could also develop between screening tests. However, attending for regular screening tests when invited increases the chances of any changes that have developed being picked up early. 

Dr McClean added: “As well as attending screening appointments, we would also urge people to familiarise themselves with the signs and symptoms of cervical cancer, including vaginal bleeding after sex, between periods or after the menopause; vaginal discharge that is not normal for you; persistent back or tummy pains; and/ or pain during sex. It is also important to remember that cervical screening will not pick up other types of cancer.

“You may feel worried if you do notice any of these symptoms, but it’s important to be checked by a GP if you do. If you feel something isn’t normal at any time, contact your GP.”

Dr Jennifer Cullen, GP Partner at Banbridge Group Surgery, has urged women to attend for screening and contact their GP if they have concerns about symptoms. She said: “Some people can feel a bit anxious discussing these topics but we deal with these issues on a regular basis as GPs. We really encourage women to reach out if they are experiencing any symptoms of cervical cancer or have any concerns about their upcoming screening appointment.”

The HPV vaccine also helps to prevent HPV-related cancers from developing in young people. It is a one dose programme which is offered to pupils in Year 9 and given as an injection in the upper arm, the same way as many other vaccines.

Dr McClean concluded: “The HPV vaccine will help protect your child against HPV infection and associated cancers, including over 90% of cervical cancers in women, and cancers of the mouth, throat, anus and genitals in men and women, and against genital warts.

“When a young person receives the vaccine, their body will react by making antibodies that will help the immune system fight HPV infection. The vaccine cannot cause HPV infection or cancer. If you have been eligible for the vaccine but have not received it in school, you can still get it free of charge until the age of 25. You can find out if you are eligible by contacting your GP surgery.

“Cervical cancer is a cancer that we can help prevent thanks to the HPV vaccination and cervical cancer screening programmes. We are confident that with good uptake of both we can drive down rates of cervical cancer to the point where it can almost be eliminated in years to come.”

• PHA site: www.pha.site/CervicalScreening1
• NI Direct – Cervical Screening:  www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/cervical-screening
• HPV: www.pha.site/HPVvaccination
• NI Direct – human papillomavirus (HPV): www.nidirect.gov.uk/conditions/human-papillomavirus-hpv