Good Hope Hospital gynaecologist, Mr Raj Saha is urging women to attend their cervical screening appointments as the fourth anniversary of Jade Goody’s untimely death from cervical cancer approaches on 22 March.

When the 27 year old reality star died in 2009, the NHS experienced a dramatic surge in the numbers of women having screenings, known as the ‘Jade Goody effect’, but this increase in testing has not been maintained.The NHS cervical screening programme saves around 5,000 lives every year, but recent figures have shown one in five women in Birmingham still do not attend, with figures even worse for those under 35 with one in three not taking up their invitation.

Mr Saha said: “Cervical screening is available to all women aged between 25 and 64. It is a simple and painless procedure and with early detection and treatment, it is estimated to prevent up to 75 percent of cervical cancers. 

“We understand that some women might find it an embarrassing or uncomfortable experience, but I would urge those women who, as a result of Jade Goody’s high profile struggle with the disease went for a screening, to make sure they attend their future appointments.  It could mean preventing surgery, living longer or being around to see children and grand children growing up.

“Women who are eligible for a cervical screening should book an appointment with their GP as soon as they receive their reminder or contact their GP if they think their screening is due.”

Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer in women aged 35 and under.