HPV test means women can safely have fewer smears

A major study has confirmed that although cervical screening is changing in the UK from routine three-yearly checks to five-yearly ones, fewer smears will not mean more cancers missed.

 

Experts say data from 1.3 million women shows the move is a good one and is possible thanks to a better lab test for smear samples.

 

The test checks for an infection called HPV, which is the cause of most cervical cancers, and is the earliest sign that a woman may be at risk.  Before this test was available, labs could only look for suspicious cells in smear samples that suggest cancer may be present or soon could be.  Having the HPV infection comes before the development of abnormal cells.

 

Dr Matejka Rebolj, from King’s College London and lead author of the study, said “These results are very reassuring.  Changing to five-yearly screening will mean we can prevent just as many cancers as before, while allowing for fewer screens.”

 

Samantha Dixon from Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust, said “It is positive to have yet more evidence supporting the improvements being made to cervical screening across the UK.

 

“The most important message is to take up your cervical screening invitation when it arrives.”

 

Chadwick Lawrence’s specialist team of clinical negligence lawyers have years of experience in medical negligence claims, providing support and guidance after life-changing events.  Not only do we represent clients in Yorkshire, but because of our reputation we also represent clients nationally.

 

If you believe that you or a relative may have been injured as a result of clinical/medical negligence, please call for free legal advice from our medical negligence solicitors on the freephone number below.

 

Posted by Karen Motley, Clinical Negligence Department, Chadwick Lawrence LLP (tonymay@chadlaw.co.uk ), medical negligence lawyers and clinical negligence solicitors in Huddersfield, Leeds, Wakefield and Halifax, West Yorkshire.

 

Freephone : 0800 304 7382