Cervical cancer is the 14th most common cancer in females in the UK, with around 3,200 cases being diagnosed each year. Whilst cervical cancer survival rates are improving, we want to raise awareness of the ways in which you can reduce the risk of developing cervical cancer, ahead of Cervical Cancer Prevention Week (17 – 23 January 2022).

What is cervical cancer?

Cervical cancer is cancer that is found anywhere in the cervix (the opening between the vagina and the womb). Almost all cervical cancers are caused by an infection from certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is usually passed on through sexual contact, which can lead to some feeling embarrassed talking about this. However, the HPV virus is very common, with 8 in 10 men and women getting some type of HPV during their lifetime.

Ways to reduce the risk of developing cervical cancer

Attend cervical screening

Cervical cancer can often be prevented by attending cervical screening, which aims to identify and treat any cervical cell changes before they turn into cancer. All women and people with a cervix aged between 25 - 64 should be invited for a smear test by letter.

During the appointment, a small sample of cells are taken from the cervix and checked for certain types of “high risk” HPV. This short video explains the process. For many, no abnormal cells are found, and no further tests are needed. If any high risk cells are found, the sample is checked for any changes in the cells of the cervix, which can then be treated before they turn into cancer.

Unfortunately, it is reported that one in three of those invited for a smear test don’t attend their appointment. Cervical screening is vital for early identification and treatment to prevent cervical cancer.

How to book

Once you receive your invitation letter, you can book your cervical screening appointment with your GP, or in some parts of England, your local sexual health clinic. If you missed your last cervical screening appointment, you don’t need to wait for your next letter to arrange this. If you have not been sent a letter or you have lost this, you should contact your GP.

Symptoms of cervical cancer

You may develop symptoms of cervical cancer before or in between cervical screening appointments, so it’s important to be aware of these. The main symptoms of cervical cancer include:

• Vaginal bleeding that’s unusual for you (this could be bleeding during or after sex, having heavier periods than usual, bleeding between periods or after you have been through the menopause)
• Changes to your vaginal discharge
• Pain during sex
• Pain in your lower back, between your hip bones or in your lower abdomen

These symptoms are very common and can be caused by several different conditions or factors, but it’s important to get them checked by your GP just in case. Your doctor may want to examine you, however, this should not be painful. You can read more about what the physical examination involves here. In ‘normal’ circumstances you can have a friend, family member or other member of staff in the room with you but check your GP’s Covid-19 policy with regards to this. You can also ask for a female doctor when you book your appointment.

You should not delay in making an appointment. If these symptoms are caused by cervical cancer, we know from the cases we have dealt with that early diagnosis and treatment is key. Cancer Research UK reports that when diagnosed at its earliest stage, 96 per cent of people with cervical cancer will survive their disease for one year or more, compared to 50 per cent of people when diagnosed at the latest stage.

HPV vaccination

The HPV vaccine has been shown to cut cases of cervical cancer by almost 90%, giving much hope for eradication of cervical cancer in the future. In the UK, girls are offered the HPV vaccine between the ages of 11 - 13 and the vaccine has also been offered to boys since 2019.

If you or your child is eligible and missed the HPV vaccine offered in school, this is still available for free on the NHS up until the 25th birthday for girls born after 1 September 1991 and boys born after 1 September 2006.

Information and support

To learn more about HPV, cell changes, cervical screening and cervical cancer, Jo’s Trust has lots of helpful information, stories and videos available on their website. Other helpful resources include GRACE and Cancer Research UK.

How can JMW help?

Unfortunately, we have acted for many clients where failure to correctly report cervical screening results, conduct appropriate follow ups and/or take necessary action has led to a worse outcome, or sadly death. Through this, we understand the devastating impact that delayed diagnosis and treatment can have on individuals and their loved ones.

For example, our Manchester team recently acted for a lady in her forties where errors in reporting her cervical screening results meant that she developed cervical cancer and had to undergo a hysterectomy as a result. She suffered significant scarring and swelling, in addition to suffering with the psychological impact of her diagnosis.

If you would like to discuss a potential claim with a member of our team, please get in touch and we would be happy to assist.