LATEST health figures on cervical screening have shown that more than 84.6 per cent of women in St Helens are now regularly screened - a figure which exceeds the Government target of 80 per cent.

A National Audit Office report published recently has highlighted the "considerable progress" made in the screening process since 1992 which has worked towards preventing the development of the disease.

It involves an internal examination when cells are scraped away from the neck of the womb using a special spatula or brush. These cells are then examined under a microscope for changes which, if left untreated, could develop into cancer.

All women in St Helens over the age of 20 should receive invitations to attend their local general practice for a smear test every three years if they are between 20 and 39 and every five years if between 40 and 64.

Dr June Tunstall, a consultant in Public Health at St Helens and Knowsley Health, said: "It is essential that all women between the ages of 20 and 64 are screened at regular intervals. Women should not be afraid or embarrassed to go for a smear - it is a painless procedure and it is important to remember that we are not actually looking for cancer but for changes in the cervix which we can treat so that cancer does not develop.

"Cervical screening is saving lives - both cases of and deaths from cervical cancer are falling fast and, nationally, up to 3,900 cancers are prevented each year."

IF you have not received an invitation for a smear test within the last five years, you should contact your local GP to make an appointment.

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