Cancer screening age to be reviewed

The age a woman is screened for cervical cancer is set to be reviewed as ministers come under increasing pressure to lower the age.

Cervical cancer screening has been pushed to the forefront after reality TV-star Jade Goody was diagnosed with the condition last summer.

Currently, only women aged 25 or over are invited to be screened, but campaigners want the age reduced to 20 in line with Scotland and Wales.

Health Minister Ann Keen said: “We are very proud of our cancer screening programmes in the NHS, which are internationally recognised as world-class.

“Cervical screening saves around 4,500 lives every year and we want to ensure that our programme remains in the best interests of young women.

“Experts will review the latest available evidence in this area as well as consider how we can increase awareness of the importance of screening and encourage more women to decide to take up this important service.”

Ms Keen has asked the independent Advisory Committee on Cervical Screening (ACCS) to review the latest available evidence relating to the risks and benefits of cervical screening in women under 25 years.

The ACCS will consider the latest evidence available, including evidence from the key cancer charities who will be asked to contribute to the review. The board of experts will then recommend whether it is beneficial for women under 25 to be screened later this year.