Why Do British People Skip Smear Tests Compared to the Rest of Europe?

2023-10-02 14:01:09

Attendance of British Appointments Significantly Falls Behind Europe, So We Explored Reasons for Skipping Smear Tests

Women going for smears has seen a positive upward trend, as indicated by data from the NHS, with 3.5 million women aged 25-64 screened in 2021/22, a 9.4% increase from the previous year.

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However, despite this progress, Britain lags well behind European countries in terms of appointment attendance, with a difference of over 30% on average.

STADA’s 2023 health report reveals that only 47% of individuals with vaginas in the UK attend their gynecological screening appointments, often involving a smear test.

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One individual, Murray, cites fear as the main reason for skipping the test, expressing concerns about potential health issues.

The Fear Factor: Fear as a Major Barrier

A survey conducted by Joe’s Cervical Cancer Trust found that 58% of millennial women lacked attendance due to fear, an explanation echoed by many. Lindsay, who was diagnosed with stage 1b cervical cancer at 29, admits to putting off her first smear test for seven years due to discomfort and vulnerability.

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Cancer Research UK highlights the importance of smear tests, with around 3197 new cervical cancer cases annually in the UK. The organization emphasizes that 99.8% of cervical cancer cases are preventable.

Overcoming Stigma and Cultural Challenges

For some, attending a smear test becomes a nuanced challenge influenced by religious and cultural factors. Louis explains how her religious upbringing affects her decision, feeling the need to protect her hymen for marriage, despite having had sexual experiences.

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Grace admits to experiencing body shame as a plus-size individual, which adds to her discomfort about attending the test. Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust states that 35% of non-attendees report body shame as a key reason.

Moreover, the fear of pain from the procedure discouraged individuals like Lucie, who suffers from PTSD due to past sexual assault. Her fear stems from previous unpleasant experiences with dismissive nurses.

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Mitigating Fear: Strategies for a Less Frightening Experience

To address the fear and improve attendance, several strategies can make the smear test less daunting. Bringing a trusted companion for support is encouraged, as the UK allows chaperones for all procedures or consultations.

Seeking guidance from religious community members who have undergone smear tests can also alleviate concerns.

For individuals with PTSD or a history of sexual assault, The Havens offers support and assistance. Contacting Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust can provide more information and guidance on accessing screenings and cervical cancer-related concerns.

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