25.10.10
Cervical cancer test numbers falls
Data from the NHS Information Centre has shown a drop in the number of cervical cancer tests being taken.
Despite the number of women taking cervical cancer tests peaked between 2008-09, the number taking the test in 2009-10 has dropped 300,000.
The peak in 2008-09 is thought to be linked to the media publicity around a reality TV star’s death to cervical cancer.
NHS Information Centre Chief Executive Tim Straughan said: “Screening is vital to catch changes to the cervix which may develop into cervical cancer. This report is important in helping NHS professionals and the public understand what percentage of eligible women is being screened.
“The 2008-09 peak in numbers attending screening, which may be due in part to publicity surrounding the late Jade Goody's battle with cervical cancer, appears not to have been sustained this year.”
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