New changes to cervical cancer screening announced

The government has confirmed a change to the established process of cervical screening to ensure cervical cancer can be prevented as effectively as possible.

Currently, cervical screening samples are first subjected to the cytology test to find abnormal cells that could go on to develop into cancer – a process that can lead to signs being missed. Testing for human papillomavirus (HPV) is used only as a secondary measure for samples needing further investigation.

Under the new plans from the Department of Health, samples will be tested for HPV first, reflecting the fact that 99.7 percent of cervical cancers are caused by persistent HPV infections that cause changes to cervical cells.

If HPV is found, it can be a useful guide to whether abnormal cells are present, allowing the patients in question to be monitored closely, allowing developing abnormal cells found sooner. In cases where no HPV is present, the test also minimises over-treatment.

Public health minister Jane Ellison said: "These changes are a breakthrough in the way we test women for cervical disease. The new test is more accurate, more personal and will reduce anxiety among women."

Currently, cervical screening saves 4,500 lives a year. It is thought the new testing process could prevent around 600 cancers annually.