Empowering women: the importance of cervical cancer awareness and early detection

Each year, more than 3,200 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer in the UK. This type of cancer can affect people at any age with over 800 losing their lives to the disease. The primary cause of cervical cancer is the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is preventable through vaccination. Early detection through regular cervical screenings, commonly known as smear tests, can significantly reduce the incidence and mortality rates associated with this cancer.

NHS England pledged in 2023 to eliminate cervical cancer by 2040 by making it simpler for people to get the HPV vaccination, and by increasing cervical screening uptake. The HPV vaccine has been shown to reduce the number of cervical cancers by 90 per cent.

All young people are offered the HPV vaccine in year 8 as part of the school’s vaccination programme or, if you miss this, you can get the HPV vaccine from your GP, free up until the age of 25, or up to 45 if you are considered to be in a higher risk group.

Cervical Cancer Awareness Week, held from 20 January to 26 January 2025, was aimed at raising awareness about cervical cancer, its prevention, and the importance of early detection. This annual campaign brought together healthcare professionals, local government officers and councillors, survivors, and the general public to focus on combating one of the most preventable forms of cancer.

The week aimed to educate individuals about the importance of cervical health, debunk myths, and encourage proactive steps to prevent cervical cancer. This included promoting the HPV vaccination and regular cervical screenings.

By sharing stories from those affected by cervical cancer, the campaign sought to empower individuals to take control of their health and seek timely medical advice. Throughout the week, various activities were organised by partners across the health and care landscape to engage the community. Social media platforms were flooded with educational content about cervical screening and HPV vaccination. Healthcare professionals and survivors participated in local events and webinars to discuss cervical cancer prevention. Leaflets, infographics, and posters were distributed in community centres, schools, and workplaces to spread awareness and campaigns like #AttendTheirSmear encouraged people to share their reasons for getting screened or vaccinated.

Campaigns like Cervical Cancer Awareness Week are an essential initiative that bring much-needed attention to cervical health. By educating the public, supporting those affected, and advocating for better access to resources, we can ultimately make significant strides towards a future where cervical cancer is a thing of the past.

Councillor Gillian Ford
Deputy Chair
LGA Community Wellbeing Board