Plea from experts after more than 30 percent eligible for smear test across West Northamptonshire yet to attend

According to West Northamptonshire Council (WNC), latest figures show 31 percent of those eligible across the unitary area have not yet attended their smear test.

The public health team is, therefore, urging residents who are eligible for a smear test to make sure they attend their screening appointment and remain up to date with their screening.

Dr Annapurna Sen, consultant in Health Protection for WNC said: “It is really important for those eligible to accept their appointment invitation and get their cervical screening test done to help early detection of abnormal cells and to protect from developing cervical cancer and its complications. If you have missed your last appointment, please take the time to call your GP and discuss booking an appointment.”

Cervical cancer screenings (smear tests) are offered to people with a cervix, between the age of 25 and 64. As long as they are registered with a GP, people are automatically notified by post when they are due a screening. Residents are invited to routine screenings around every three years.

The council also said that children aged 12 and 13 will be invited to receive the HPV vaccination in Year 8 or 9. It said this can help protect the development of cervical cancer, and urged parents to consent.

For a full list of those eligible for cervical cancer screening, visit the NHS website.

If you have not yet had your routine appointment or have missed your last appointment, you are urged to contact your GP to discuss further.