Eliminating Cervical Cancer:

How awareness, screening, and vaccination can save lives

with Miss Jennifer Byrom, Consultant Gynaecologist

Cervical cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women worldwide. However, in the UK, nearly all cases (99.8%) are caused by HPV, a virus that can be prevented through vaccination. Thanks to the NHS Vaccination Programme, there is hope that cervical cancer could be eliminated entirely by 2040.

January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, a time when experts and campaigners worldwide focus on raising awareness about cervical cancer and how we can work together to prevent it. To mark this important initiative, we spoke to our highly experienced consultant gynaecologist, Jennifer Byrom (Jenni). With over 20 years of experience in diagnosing and treating gynaecological conditions, she is here to share her insights on cervical cancer. In this interview, Jenni explains the signs and symptoms of cervical cancer, how it can be prevented, and the treatment options available, empowering you with the knowledge to take control of your health.

What is the significance of Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, and why is it so important?

Cervical Cancer Awareness Month in January is about more than just recognising the signs and symptoms of cervical cancer. It is also an opportunity to highlight the cervical screening programme and encourage more women to attend their screening. Detecting cervical cancer, or even pre-cancerous changes, early makes a huge difference to treatment and survival rates. When pre-cancerous cells in the cervix are identified, treatment is often minimally invasive. In fact, 95% of women will not need surgery, chemotherapy, or radiotherapy, as local treatment is usually enough.

The survival rate for cervical cancer is around 90% when caught early, and this figure is likely even higher if it is detected very early. Unfortunately, we know that around half of women with advanced cervical cancer have not kept up to date with their cervical screening. If you are unsure when your screening is due, you should receive a letter from your GP practice. Alternatively, you can always call to check. Another key focus of Cervical Cancer Awareness Month is the HPV vaccine, which is now offered to boys and girls aged 12 to 13. HPV causes most cases of cervical cancer, and since it is so easily transmitted once someone becomes sexually active, both vaccination and regular screening are vital in preventing the disease.

Many women find the idea of a cervical screening uncomfortable. What advice would you give to someone who is feeling nervous about attending their appointment?

Feeling nervous about a cervical screening is very common, but there are ways to make the experience easier. If you feel more comfortable with a female healthcare professional, you can request one when you book your appointment. Cervical screening is usually carried out by practice nurses, but you can also request to see a female GP or visit a sexual health clinic. If you are concerned about discomfort during the procedure, you can ask for a smaller speculum, which some women find less uncomfortable. For those who are particularly anxious, it is sometimes possible to have the procedure done at a hospital, where specialised couches are available that many patients find more comfortable. Gas and air may also be offered in some cases for those who are very nervous. It is also important to remember that cervical screening is a preventative measure. It is designed to detect abnormal cells before they develop into cancer. Most results are normal, and even when abnormalities are found, early treatment with procedures like a loop excision of the cervix (LLETZ) can prevent further complications.

What are some of the common barriers women and girls face when accessing cervical screening?

There are several challenges that can prevent women and girls from attending cervical screening. For some, language barriers make it difficult to understand the information about screening or its importance. Others may feel discouraged due to cultural or religious taboos, or because they had a previous screening that was uncomfortable or distressing.

Logistical challenges, such as mobility issues or difficulty getting an appointment, can also play a role. Women who are pregnant when their screening is due may miss their appointment, and this can sometimes lead to screening being forgotten. While reminder letters are sent when a screening is due, these stop after two reminders, meaning patients will not receive another until their next scheduled screening in three or five years.

What are the signs and symptoms of cervical cancer that we should be aware of?

In its early stages, cervical cancer often has no symptoms, which is why regular cervical screening is so important to detect any changes early. As the disease progresses, the most common symptoms include irregular vaginal bleeding, such as bleeding between periods or after sex, and an unusual discharge that may be discoloured or have an unpleasant smell. Heavier or prolonged periods can also be a sign of concern. In very advanced cases, pelvic pain may occur. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is essential to see your GP for further investigation.

Is there anything we can do to reduce the risk of cervical cancer?

There are several challenges that can prevent women and girls from attending cervical screening. For some, language barriers make it difficult to understand the information about screening or its importance. Others may feel discouraged due to cultural or religious taboos, or because they had a previous screening that was uncomfortable or distressing.

Logistical challenges, such as mobility issues or difficulty getting an appointment, can also play a role. Women who are pregnant when their screening is due may miss their appointment, and this can sometimes lead to screening being forgotten. While reminder letters are sent when a screening is due, these stop after two reminders, meaning patients will not receive another until their next scheduled screening in three or five years.

What are the current treatment options available for cervical cancer?

The type of treatment needed depends on how early the cancer is detected. For early-stage cervical cancer, a simple procedure called a loop excision of the cervix (LLETZ) can be performed. This is a quick, five-minute procedure usually carried out under local anaesthetic, and most patients can go home the same day. For more advanced cases, treatment options may include surgery, chemotherapy, or radiotherapy. In very severe cases, a hysterectomy might be required. However, when only the cervix needs to be removed, it is often possible to preserve fertility, allowing patients to have children in the future

Final Thoughts

If you have concerns about cervical cancer, screening, or treatment options, do not hesitate to speak to your GP or contact Birmingham Gynaecology Clinic for advice. Regular screening and early detection make a huge difference. You can find out more about Cervical Cancer Awareness Month on the Macmillan website. If you have any questions or concerns, get in touch and one of our experts will be happy to help.

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