​Record numbers of women are not being screened for cervical cancer, according to the latest NHS figures.

NHS England data released exclusively to The Guardian shows that “about 4.6 million women aged 25 to 64 in England (or 30 per cent) – amounting to the highest proportion in a decade – have never been screened for cervical cancer or are not up to date with their tests.”

According to Cancer Research UK, “in females in the UK, cervical cancer is the 14th most common cancer, with around 3,200 new cases every year.”

The cancer is highly preventable through using Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccinations and cervical screenings. The vaccine is typically administered in schools to 12 to 13-year-olds. But vaccination rates are falling. The research explained, “For 2021/22, they were down seven per cent in girls in year eight at school, and 8.7 per cent in year eight boys, compared with the previous academic year.”

Commenting to The Guardian, Samantha Dixon, chief executive of Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust, said, “We want to see the government step up and commit to eliminating cervical cancer in the UK. Other countries are much further along the path to ending this cancer and we do not want the UK to fall behind. Addressing inequalities in access to cervical screening and uptake of HPV vaccination is vital.”

Dr Kiren Collison, GP and NHS interim medical director for primary care at NHS England, said, “We have the opportunity to eliminate cervical cancer altogether. Having the potential to completely eradicate a disease that affects thousands of people every year is remarkable, but in order to do this it is vital that people take up the offer of a test – so if you have received an invitation, or missed your last screening, don’t wait to make an appointment – getting checked can save your life.”

Julie Sharp, Cancer Research UK’s head of health and patient information, said, “Some people can find cervical screening uncomfortable or painful, but there are ways to make your appointment work better for you. When booking, ask for a longer time slot, so you can speak through any concerns you may have. And remember, you are in control of your appointment. You can ask the nurse to stop at any time, for a different sized speculum or to try lying in a different position.”

Maria Caulfield, minister for women’s health, said, “I have seen firsthand through working as a nurse in a cancer unit how important it is to detect this cruel disease early, and the NHS cervical screening programme is a vital way of detecting risk of and preventing cervical cancers.

“We’re improving the cervical screening process, including opening up 24/7 laboratory screening and expanding the locations options available so people can get their results faster and their tests easier. I encourage those eligible to attend their potentially life-saving screening when invited.”

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