Alarm at struggle to screen women

TWO in five working women are struggling to get convenient appointments for cervical cancer screening, a survey suggests.

A charity is concerned more will end up delaying vital smear tests as they return to the workplace.

Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust has launched a Time to Test campaign – encouraging employers to play their part in raising awareness.

Samantha Dixon, chief executive of the trust, said: “There are many barriers to cervical screening but work is a very practical one which we can, and should, try to tackle.

“Whilst every workplace is different, we’re calling on employers to find a way to offer their staff Time to Test, especially as we start returning to offices. We must try to avoid putting more barriers in place.”

The poll of more than 1,000 women found 38 per cent of full-time workers were unable to get a convenient appointment the last time they tried to book.

Only one in five said they were able and the rest were unsure or did not say.A fifth said they had previously used annual leave to attend a screening.

An increase in working from home during the pandemic had made it easier for almost a quarter of women to attend medical appointments. Eight per cent found it harder.

Some 62 per cent said they would feel comfortable taking time off work if there was more discussion about women’s health in the workplace. Dr Edward Morris, president of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, said: “It is vital that women attend these screenings.

“We want all employees to feel supported in taking time to prioritise their health.”