NHS Lanarkshire is putting a spotlight on the importance of cervical screening - commonly known as a smear test. It’s Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, and with Cervical Cancer Prevention Week running from January 21-28, those eligible for screening are being urged to have the potentially lifesaving test.Anyone aged 25 to 64 who’s eligible for screening is invited for a routine smear test.The Lanarkshire Live app is available to download now.
Get all the news from your area – as well as features, entertainment, sport and the latest on Lanarkshire’s recovery from the coronavirus pandemic – straight to your fingertips, 24/7.The free download features the latest breaking news and exclusive stories, and allows you to customise your page to the sections that matter most to you.Head to the App Store and never miss a beat in Lanarkshire - iOS - Android Celia Briffa-Watt, NHS Lanarkshire consultant in public health, said: “Cervical screening checks the cells from your cervix for the human papilloma virus (HPV), which is the main cause of cervical cancer. "It’s the most effective and accurate way of finding out if you’re more likely to develop cervical cancer, and the test only takes around five minutes.“If you’d feel more comfortable with a female nurse or GP, be sure to mention this when you make your appointment. "You can ask to discuss the smear test with the practice nurse before your appointment or ask for a double appointment if you think you need a bit longer during your smear test.
You could even take a friend or relative along too, if you’d prefer.”Celia’s message was echoed by NHS Lanarkshire’s public health screening programme manager, Morag Nicholson.Morag explained: “When it’s your turn, you’ll get a letter inviting