Lanarkshire women encouraged not to ignore cervical screening invite

dailyrecord.co.uk:

Lanarkshire women are being encouraged not to ignore their cervical screening invite, as a drive gets underway to highlight the importance of the test, which screens for the human papillomavirus virus (HPV).To mark Cervical Cancer Prevention Week, which runs until January 23, healthcare professionals across Scotland have reinforced that the smear test now offered is more sensitive, screening for HPV – the main cause of cervical cancer - to help ensure any cell changes are identified and treated earlier.As the test is more effective, those who are found to have HPV will be invited for screening every year, so any cell changes can be closely monitored, and referred for further investigation and treatment if needed.The Lanarkshire Live app is available to download now.

Get all the news from your area – as well as features, entertainment, sport and the latest on Lanarkshire’s recovery from the coronavirus pandemic – straight to your fingertips, 24/7.The free download features the latest breaking news and exclusive stories, and allows you to customise your page to the sections that matter most to you.Head to the App Store and never miss a beat in Lanarkshire - iOS - Android Those whose test sample shows no signs of HPV will be invited for their screening appointment in five years, as evidence shows the chance of developing cervical cancer during this time is very low.Scotland introduced five year cervical screening testing for women aged between 25-49 years with no HPV in March 2020, at the same time as HPV testing was introduced into the cervical screening programme.Celia Briffa-Watt, NHS Lanarkshire consultant in public health, said: “Even if everything feels fine, it’s important not to ignore your smear test invite as it