Cervical screening reminders in England to increase to every five years for some women
Summary
Invitations for cervical screening in England will change from every three years to every five years for women aged 25 to 49 who have a negative HPV test. This change starts on July 1 and follows similar adjustments in Scotland and Wales. Research suggests that extending the time between screenings is safe for most women because the HPV vaccine has significantly reduced cervical cancer cases.Key Facts
- England will send cervical screening invitations every five years for women aged 25-49 with a negative HPV test.
- The change starts from July 1 and aligns with similar policies in Scotland and Wales.
- HPV, human papillomavirus, is a virus linked to almost all cervical cancer cases.
- Studies show that screening every five years is as safe as screening every three years.
- The HPV vaccine has reduced cervical cancer cases by around 25% since the 1990s.
- Women aged 50-64 will continue to receive screening invitations every five years.
- Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women worldwide.
- Symptoms of cervical cancer include unusual vaginal bleeding, changes to discharge, and pain during sex or in the lower back.
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