Cervical Cancer Prevention Week 2024 is observed from January 22nd to January 28th .

The campaign aims to bring attention to those whose lives have been impacted by cervical cancer, to find solutions, and to remember those we have lost.

It’s reported that, in the UK, two women a day lose their lives to cervical cancer and nine more receive life changing diagnoses. Sweden aim to fully eradicate the disease by 2030 while the NHS aims to do so by 2040.

This plan is executed through vaccinations of all pre-teenage girls from the age of nine aiming to catch up to all people through to the age of 26. Along with vaccinations, the NHS are inviting more people than ever before for cervical screening.

Cervical cancer is preventable and curable if detected early and managed effectively, which is why regular screening plays an important role. Cervical screenings, commonly referred to as smear tests, are currently offered on the NHS to women and people with a cervix aged 25 to 64, at regular intervals of 3 years and 5 years depending on age.

Screenings will also be done if you attend your GP with symptoms which may be cervical cancer. Common symptoms of cervical cancer include:

  • vaginal bleeding that’s unusual for you, such as after sex, between periods or after the menopause;

  • changes to your vaginal discharge;

  • pain during sex;

  • pain in your lower back, between your hip bones (pelvis), or in your lower tummy.

Please visit the NHS website for up to date information on symptoms.

While we’ve made huge progress in the prevention and treatment of cervical cancer, there is still a long way to go, which is why we’re looking to help raise awareness this cervical cancer prevention week and encourage anyone eligible for a vaccination to have theirs as well as attend cervical cancer screenings, and to speak to a GP at the earliest opportunity if you experience symptoms.

Over the years Farleys have seen first-hand the effects of a cervical cancer diagnosis, made even worse by a delayed or misdiagnosis. We have experience of acting on behalf of claimants who have suffered negligent treatment whilst suffering with cervical cancer.

In these cases, there is a myriad of causes which can include inaccurate smear tests, misinterpretation of results, delays in treatments etc., which ultimately lead to more evasive treatment than would have been required or, sadly, causing death.

If you would like to discuss your case with a specialist medical negligence solicitors, you can contact the team at Farleys today on 0845 287 0939, or get in touch by email or through the online chat below.