New guidance to help early diagnosis of cervical cancer in young women welcomed by Marie Stopes International

Wednesday, 3 March 2010 12:00 AM

New guidance has been produced to help GPs spot symptoms and diagnose young women with cervical cancer early, Health Minister Ann Keen announced today. Leading sexual health agency Marie Stopes International (MSI) issued the following statement:

"The sad and high profile case of Jade Goody last year showed that cervical cancer, although extremely rare among women under 25, does represent a potential threat to their lives and wellbeing. Early detection and treatment can prevent cervical cancer developing in women so it is vital that GPs are well-informed and able to provide appropriate examinations and treatment to symptomatic women.

A review by the Advisory Committee for Cervical Screening highlighted concerns that young women with potential symptoms of cervical cancer, such as bleeding between periods and after intercourse have the diagnosis delayed because these symptoms are common in the general population. We welcome this new guidance to assist GPs and other health care professionals by providing a clear diagnostic framework which recommends an immediate speculum examination to allow a clear view of the cervix. If any abnormities are visualised women should be referred immediately for further examination and treatment.

Women aged 25 to 64 years in the UK are currently invited for regular cervical screening in the form of smear teats as part of the NHS call and recall system. Last year the Government announced no change in the screening start age as a review of evidence showed that earlier screening could do more harm by generating too many false positives and unnecessary interventions. However women of any age with concerns about their cervical health should visit their GP or local Marie Stopes International centre for advice.

The recent introduction of a cervical cancer vaccination programme makes regular cervical screening for women aged 25 to 64 years, and prompt examinations for symptomatic women of any age all the more pertinent. The vaccine is not a bullet-proof shield against cervical cancer, but there is concern that once vaccinated some young girls may think they are 'safe'. It is therefore vital to encourage girls to start thinking about their own cervical health as early as possible, and to develop a screening culture amongst young women to ensure as many cases of this preventable form of cancer are detected as possible, as well as protecting against other sexually transmitted infections.

All quotes are attributable to Dr Asma Khalid, Senior Medical Advisor, Marie Stopes International.

- Ends -

For media enquiries please contact:

Emily James: 0207 034 2307 / 07815 009 257

Tony Kerridge: 0207 034 2365 / 07748 948037

Notes to editors:

Marie Stopes International (MSI) is a specialist organisation providing expert and confidential care and support to men and women of all ages in relation to their sexual and reproductive healthcare, including unplanned pregnancy advice and services, contraceptive provision and health screening. For further information visit www.mariestopes.org.uk

For further information on the new guidance please contact the DH news desk on 020 710 5221.

Tags: