A knowledge gap around cervical screenings is currently "costing lives", a cancer charity says.The Eve Appeal says more women need to know they can ask for adjustments to their cervical screenings, which can be painful, uncomfortable or distressing for some.The test is thought to save about 5,000 lives every year in the UK, but many women do not get tested.Research commissioned by the charity suggests most women do not know they can make the test easier by asking for longer appointments, smaller speculums, or move to more comfortable positions.
'You can take control'
The screening, which tests for the presence of human papillomavirus (HPV) - the virus that causes cervical cancer - is offered by the NHS to all women and people with a cervix aged between 25 and 64.The test involves taking a sample of cells from the cervix. If any abnormal cells are found, they can be removed or monitored to prevent cancer developing.