Wishart highlights Cervical Cancer Prevention Week

Wishart has encouraged people in Shetland to attend their cervical screening when invited and receive the HPV vaccination when offered.

Cervical cancer currently kills two women in the UK every day and Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust is calling for action, innovation, and awareness to help end cervical cancer. Up to 1 in 3 do not attend their appointment when invited.

In its latest report, the UK’s leading cervical cancer charity found that only 17% of health professionals working across cervical cancer prevention think enough is currently being done to eliminate cervical cancer in the UK. Only 20% think enough is being done to ensure high levels of HPV vaccine uptake, and just 16% believe that enough is being done to support cervical screening uptake.

Ms Wishart said:

“Cervical screening and HPV vaccines can both help prevent cervical cancer, and I would encourage everyone who can to book and attend a screening, as well as accept the HPV vaccine if offered.

“It may not always feel easy to attend an appointment or screening but Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust is available to provide support and more information can be found online.”

Samantha Dixon, Chief Executive at Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust said:

“A world without cervical cancer doesn’t have to be a pipe dream. The UK has the tools to make it a reality which is incredibly exciting. We need Government action to get there as soon as possible, but everyone can play their part. Going for cervical screening when invited, and making sure your child is vaccinated against HPV, will help make cervical cancer a thing of the past.

“We must also continue to invest in research, improve access to treatments, and banish the stigma and blame that too often comes with a cervical cancer diagnosis. Being forward looking should not mean those living with and beyond cancer get left behind.”

ENDS

Notes to Editors

For interviews, further comment or case studies, contact Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust at: media@jostrust.org.uk or call 07772 290 064 or 07800 825 051.

Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust is the UK’s leading cervical cancer charity, providing information and support to anyone affected, and campaigning for excellence in cervical cancer treatment, care, and prevention. Its national Helpline is free, confidential, and available on 0808 802 8000. www.jostrust.org.uk