MP backs cervical cancer campaign

Dave Doogan is pictured with Samantha Dixon, chief executive of Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust.

During Cervical Cancer Prevention Week, Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust called for action to eradicate the disease.

Cervical cancer currently kills two women in the UK every day and the charity is calling for action, innovation, and awareness to help end cervical cancer.

Mr Doogan is encouraging women in their constituencies to attend their cervical screening when invited, and is supporting the efforts of the HPV immunisation programme.

Cervical screening uptake in Tayside is just 72%, meaning that around a quarter of women in the region do not attend their screening when invited.

Mr Doogan said: “It’s really exciting that we have the opportunity to effectively consign a cancer to the history books.

"Cervical screening and HPV vaccines can both help prevent cervical cancer, and I would encourage everyone who can to make use of these amazing cancer prevention tools.

“Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust recognises that attending a screening isn’t always easy, but they are there for you with information and support if you ever need them.”

In its latest report, the UK’s leading cervical cancer charity found that only 17% of health professionals working across cervical cancer prevention think enough is currently being done to eliminate cervical cancer in the UK.

Only 20% think enough is being done to ensure high levels of HPV vaccine uptake, and just 16% believe that enough is being done to support cervical screening uptake.

Samantha Dixon, trust chief executive, said: “A world without cervical cancer doesn’t have to be a pipe dream. The UK has the tools to make it a reality which is incredibly exciting.

"We need Government action to get there as soon as possible, but everyone can play their part. Going for cervical screening when invited, and making sure your child is vaccinated against HPV, will help make cervical cancer a thing of the past."

To find out more and to get involved with the #WeCan End Cervical Cancer campaign, follow Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust on social media or visit the website at jostrust.org.uk.