Leading cervical cancer charity disappointed with Government decision on the age of cervical screening

News Release

Leading Cervical Cancer Charity Disappointed with Government decision

JO’S TRUST RESPONSE TO THE DECISION TO KEEP CERVICAL SCREENING IN ENGLAND AT 25

Jo’s Trust, the UK’s only cervical cancer charity has reacted with disappointment at the decision to keep the age for cervical screening in England at 25.

Robert Music, director of Jo’s Trust said, “We are disappointed that after campaigning so hard for change, the women in England will not be given the same opportunity as those from the rest of the UK. We have always said this is about choice and there is a real inequality being perpetuated through this decision. Recent opinion polling has demonstrated that women in England want the opportunity to be screened on the same terms as those in the rest of the UK.”

Mr Music, who was given the opportunity to meet with Ann Keen, the Health Minster to discuss the decision then said “It is encouraging that the Minister took on board the real concerns that women who were symptomatic were not being diagnosed until it was too late and I welcome the planned awareness campaign to health professionals and the public and I am pleased that in our meeting she stated she wishes to work with Jo’s Trust. However, I would be very concerned if this important piece of work, which must begin as soon as possible did not include looking at past cases as well; as new ones.

“We also want to ensure that there is an ongoing review of all the current evidence that may impact on the current age for cervical screening in England.”

-ends-

24th June 2009

NOTES TO EDITORS

Jo’s Trust – www.jotrust.co.uk – is a registered charity established in 1999 by James Maxwell in memory of his wife Jo who died of cervical cancer. Jo’s Trust is dedicated to women, their families and friends affected by pre-cancer and cancer of the cervix.

Last updated: 20/04/2010