THE Scottish Government “cannot be complacent” in its fight against cervical cancer, a leading charity has warned.

Holyrood published its 10-year cancer strategy last week detailing its plan to improve both screening and human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccinations in a bid to stamp out the disease.

Staff at Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust praised the “long-anticipated” framework but insisted it was vital the government pushed forward to turn its plans into reality as the UK officially began cervical cancer awareness week.

The Glasgow Times has called on both the Scottish Government and NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde to reduce waiting times for follow-up colposcopy appointments as part of its Don't Fear the Smear campaign.

Iona Stoddart, deputy head of information and engagement at Jo's Cervical Cancer Trust, said: "The new cancer strategy is long anticipated and has the potential to see more people living better and longer with cancer, and more prevented.

Glasgow Times:

“It is positive to see a focus on addressing inequalities, this must be prioritised. Understanding the barriers and initiating targeted solutions to level the field in cervical screening and HPV vaccination coverage is more important than ever; the strategy highlights reduction of cervical cancer incidence is on a positive trajectory, yet screening attendance continues to decline in Scotland.

“We cannot be complacent, and we urge the Scottish Government to progress in research around the acceptability and feasibility of HPV self-sampling.

“We’re delighted to see commitments to eliminate cervical cancer in the strategy and urge this is realised at pace to reach a future where this disease is a thing of the past."

The strategy detailed its vision for Scotland in 2033 as a place where the “incidence of preventable cancers, such as cervical cancer, is reduced”.

It continues that it aims to create an informed population who knows where and when to seek help as well as ensuring a high HPV vaccine rate, with evidence showing it reduces the likelihood of developing the disease by around 90%.

Glasgow Times:

Elsewhere, it details plans to optimise pre-cancerous screening with a desire to ensure Scots have access to the latest in technological and medical innovations and move forward with recommendations to explore self-sampling for smear exams.

Health secretary Michael Matheson said: “Our absolute focus is to improve cancer survival and make sure everyone gets excellent and accessible care. The pandemic had a significant impact on all aspects of health and social care, and cancer services were no exception. This cancer strategy will make sure we are properly delivering these vital services and clearly directing future investments.

“The strategy takes a strong public health approach, which means more cancers will be prevented. Those who require diagnostics and treatment will have prompt access to quality services. As well as being able to cure more people, we also recognise the importance of treatment to extend good quality of life and the provision of excellent palliative care.

“The Scottish Cancer Network will be at the heart of our strategic ambitions, setting out agreed best clinical practice and assuring people with cancer of common standards of care, no matter where they live.”