ALMOST a quarter of Swindon women eligible for cervical screening are risking their lives by not attending their appointment.

The shocking figures were revealed by NHS Swindon this week, as health bosses begged the town’s 23 per cent of untested women not to ignore the invitation for a potentially life-saving smear test.

Dr Jenny Harries, director of public health at NHS Swindon, warned: “The majority of women who are diagnosed with cervical cancer have not attended regular cervical screenings.

“Early detection and treatment of the disease can prevent the need for invasive surgery later on, such as a hysterectomy, and has saved countless lives. Estimates show that if all eligible women were regularly screened, 75 per cent of deaths caused by cervical cancer could be avoided.’ It is estimated that cervical screening saves the lives of 18 women in Swindon every year.

Frances Mayes, lead for cervical screening at NHS Swindon, said: “I can’t emphasise enough how important it is for women to take up the offer of free screening. “The early development of cervical cancer often causes no signs or symptoms and can only be detected by screening, which can pick up on abnormal cells before they become cancerous.

“It is particularly important for young women aged 25 to take up the first offer of screening as, unlike other cancers, cervical cancer is most common in women under the age of 45. Most cases occur between the age of 30 and 45 but screening from the age of 25 can identify abnormal cells and with treatment can prevent cancer developing.”

NHS Swindon has launched a campaign ‘What’s pants but could save your life?’, which aims to encourage women in the town to go for screening when invited or make an appointment if they missed their last one.

Adverts promoting screening are popping up around the town this week including a Heart FM radio campaign. NHS pharmacies are also asking eligible women to fill in a questionnaire when they pop in, in exchange for a free goody bag.

“The campaign acknowledges that smear tests are not fun, but they need to be done – such as washing the dishes, vacuuming the house or even having a bikini wax,” said Mrs Mayes.

“We realise that many women may feel anxious about going for a screening but would urge women not to put it off.”

“Smear tests take about five minutes with most women describing it as a little uncomfortable or ‘pants’ but not painful, and you can ask to be screened by a female doctor or nurse if you prefer.”

Dr Harries added, “Although screening can feel a little uncomfortable, it is 100 per cent worth it in the long run.”