New campaign to increase cervical cancer screening uptake in Eastleigh

The council run scheme will see the authority work with local health services as the national Cervical Cancer Prevention Week gets under way on January 17.

This comes as the Local Primary Care Network (PCN), consisting of St Andrew’s, Boyatt Wood, Archers and Parkside practices, have highlighted that cervical cancer screening take up and early detection for local residents is lower than in other local areas.

They say that missed appointments can lead to late diagnosis, which contributes to poorer outcomes.

Now though, the Council is teaming up with the PCN and the Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust charity to increase awareness of symptoms and boost take-up of screening in the Eastleigh town centre and its surroundings.

The Cervical Cancer Prevention Week will primarily focus on women aged 25-64.

According to Public Health England data (2020-21) the Eastleigh town area lags behind other areas of the wider NHS West Hampshire Clinical Commissioning Group for cervical cancer screening uptake, more so for over 50s.

The Council’s Cabinet Member for Health, Councillor Tonia Craig, said: “As a local authority dedicated to promoting health in our communities we’re keen to add our voice to this excellent campaign to tackle a preventable cancer.

"Together, we will share tips and experiences to help others feel more able to attend screenings and make those facing an unexpected result know they aren’t alone”.

The authority says that the pandemic has seen a reduction in bookings and attendance at screenings within the target periods of three and five years, depending on age.

Samantha Dixon, Chief Executive, Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust: “We want everyone to have the support and facts they need to access cervical screening and deal with an unexpected result.

"Cervical screening can help stop cervical cancer before it starts so it’s an incredibly important test. Help raise awareness by sharing your story this week and show others they aren’t alone” .