This week is #CervicalCancerPreventionWeek.
Unfortunately, around 1 in 3 women invited to their cervical screening test by the NHS last year didn't attend them because of concerns around the coronavirus.
It may seem easy for me as a man to say 'make sure you go and get your smear test' because I don't have to have one myself - I do understand that - but I know that these tests help protect individuals and families from cancer. So with that - if you get invited for your cervical screening test, please take up the offer.
If you're worried about whether your GP surgery or hospital is covid-secure, just ring up the staff and explain your worries. I'm sure they'd be happy to explain what covid-secure measures are in place for you, and how these places are probably more secure than anywhere else!
If you're worried about the test itself, for whatever reason, Jo's Cervical Cancer Trust is a charity that is there to help you, and can answer your questions, worries or concerns about your cervical screening test. You can visit their website at - www.jostrust.org.uk/
To find out more from the NHS, visit www.nhs.uk/conditions/cervical-screening