As we reach the end of Cervical Cancer Prevention Week, Clinical Negligence specialist, Anne Martin shares what she has learned.
This week, Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust has shared some very sobering statistics on Cervical Cancer. Every day in the UK, two women lose their lives to cervical cancer and nine more receive a life-changing diagnosis of the disease.
The fantastic charity, along with many others, do a tremendous job of raising awareness and encouraging uptake of HPV vaccinations, cervical screening and treatment for cell changes that can all help prevent cervical cancer, but this week, Jo's Cervical Cancer Trust has been calling for the government to commit to eliminating cervical cancer.
By providing the investment and resourcing needed for the services that help prevent it, Cervical Cancer can be stopped. Sweden is likely to eliminate cervical cancer before 2030. Australia not far behind them and NHS England has pledged to eliminate cervical cancer by 2040, but with the right support it could be sooner.
I have seen situations where signs have been missed, diagnoses have been wrong or overlooked, and treatment has been delayed, which is why I feel compelled to join the call of Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust this week.
Cervical Cancer Symptoms can include:
- Vaginal bleeding that is unusual for you.
- Changes to vaginal discharge.
- Discomfort during sex and pain in your lower back or pelvis.
If you have symptoms, you should contact your GP.
Further information on Cervical Cancer together with help available for those directly affected can be found on the following websites:
- https://www.jostrust.org.uk/
- https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/cervical-cancer/
- https://www.macmillan.org.uk/cancer-information-and-support/cervical-cancer
If you, or someone you know, have experienced sub-standard or delayed medical care in relation to Cervical Cancer, our team of specialist Medical Negligence Solicitors can help to pursue a claim for compensation.
