SCOTTISH leaders have urged women to attend their smear tests amid staggeringly low uptakes.

Both First Minister Nicola Sturgeon and Glasgow City Council leader Susan Aitken have stressed the importance of the routine examinations while pledging their support to the Glasgow Times Don’t Fear the Smear campaign.

The drive is designed to encourage women and people with cervixes to attend their screenings after it was revealed only around 65% of eligible people attend, with numbers even lower in the younger age groups.

Councillor Aitken said: “Cervical cancer is the most common cancer in younger women – but all the evidence shows that regular screening and taking the HPV vaccine can drastically reduce the risk.

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“So, it really is a concern that uptake is so low among Glaswegians of all ages - but particularly those in their late twenties, who will be getting offered a smear for the first time.

“I really welcome the Glasgow Times taking this campaign forward. For a health service that half of us should receive at some point in our lives, screening is not something that is talked about enough – and changing that can be the first step in improving the uptake here in Glasgow.”

Cervical cancer continues to be the most common form of the disease in Scottish women under 35, yet less than half of those in the 25 to 29-year-olds category attend their smear tests.

The tests are available to those over the age of 25 and are routinely offered every five years.

However, the SNP leader and Glasgow MSP urged those who may have missed a previous appointment to reach out to their GP to rearrange their visit.

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Ms Sturgeon, who announced her resignation earlier this month, said: “While making an appointment for a smear test can seem daunting, it’s no exaggeration to say that it could save your life.

“I know there are reasons why women put off going for the screening test, and it’s natural to be nervous, but it’s absolutely vital that women are aware that this quick and easy test is the best way to protect themselves from cervical cancer.

“I would urge everyone who receives a cervical screening invite not to ignore it – please make an appointment to attend as soon as possible, and if you missed your last smear test, contact your GP to find a time that suits you.”

For more information on how to book a smear test, visit the NHS Scotland website or contact your GP surgery.