In a concerning development, figures released by NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde reveal that around a third of eligible women in Glasgow are failing to undergo vital cervical cancer screenings. The overall uptake rate for these “smear tests” stands at just 65.2%, well below the Scottish government’s target of 80%.
The data shows a particularly troubling trend among younger women, with only 46.5% of those aged 25-29 taking the test. Conversely, the highest uptake was seen in the 50-54 age group, at 74.7%. Uptake then steadily declines in the older age brackets, reaching 64.4% for women aged 60-64.
Alison Potts, a consultant in public health screening at NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, emphasised the importance of all women and people with a cervix attending these appointments, regardless of their HPV vaccination status. She warned: “Please don’t assume that being vaccinated means you no longer need to attend screening. That simply isn’t the case.”
The health board has now launched a new campaign, “Don’t Fear The Smear,” in partnership with the Glasgow City football team. The initiative aims to encourage more young women to prioritise this crucial health check, using social media and player testimonials to help normalise conversations around cervical screening.
Glasgow City FC co-captain Lee Gibson commented: “Sometimes it’s easy to overlook important health checks and screenings. Hopefully, by being open about our own experiences with smear tests, we help to normalise conversations. If talking helps even one woman feel less anxious and more likely to book a screening, then it’s absolutely worth it.”
With cervical cancer being one of the most preventable forms of the disease, these low uptake rates in Glasgow are a significant cause for concern. Healthcare professionals are urging all eligible women to prioritise their cervical screening appointments, regardless of their age or vaccination status, in order to safeguard their long-term health.
