Title: Cancer Survivor from Welton Expresses Anxiety Over Changes in Cervical Screening Interval
A survivor of cervical cancer in Lincolnshire has voiced anxiety over the planned extension for cervical smear test intervals for women in England, stating fears that it could put lives at risk. Starting from July 2025, women within the age range of 25 to 49 will now receive invitations for cervical screenings every five years, in contrast to the current system offering checks every three years.
In the village of Welton, 42-year-old Donna Bradbury shared deeply personal experiences, explaining, “Within the span of 30 months, I moved from having a clear smear test to a 6cm tumour, resulting in a diagnosis of stage two cervical cancer. It’s a dreadful thought to imagine what the outcome might have been if I had needed to wait any longer.”
Despite assurances from NHS England that research evidence verifies the safety of five-year intervals, Ms. Bradbury continues to express concern over the likelihood of delayed diagnoses due to the prolonged intervals. She stated, “Five years seems a considerable length of time,” underlining the possibility of undiagnosed conditions during this period.
However, there is reassurance from others in the sector. Athena Lamnisos, the Chief Executive Officer of the gynaecological cancer charity, The Eve Appeal, highlighted recent advancements in testing. She stated these new tests have proven to be more sensitive and efficient, leading to a more personalised approach based on individual risk factors. Of course, this is little solace to Ms Bradbury, who received her diagnosis in 2020, and now eagerly awaits her “five year clear” status which is due this November.
This article was originally reported by www.bbc.com and subsequently adapted for The Lincoln Post.
