ADVICE: NHS have offered their advice for this week Smear tests aren’t easy for everyone, but they can save lives. The number of people going for smear tests is lower than ever, yet they prevent 75% of cervical cancers! So while they may not be pleasant, they are important. Cervical cancer is the most common cancer in women aged 35, and 75% of cervical cancers are prevented by cervical screening (smear tests). Cervical Cancer Prevention Week runs from January 18 to 24 and it encourages women to reduce their risk of the disease by promoting the steps they can take to look after their health.
Success: Lynsey Robson, Macmillan Lead Cancer Nurse at NCIC NHS Foundation Trust A RECENTLY retired driving instructor, who lives with life limiting secondary pancreatic cancer, has backed a new West Cumbrian community cancer service as providing vital additional support to all those living with cancer. Carolyn Pickering, 62, from Tirril near Penrith, recently retired after almost 40 years as a driving instructor. She was forced to retire last year following her diagnosis of secondary pancreatic cancer that can be managed with a course of targeted daily chemotherapy tablets, but not cured. The service has been launched in partnership with national charity Macmillan Cancer Support and the local NHS in West Cumbria and will support people living with cancer in the community with tailored cancer care, support and advice and with a focus on the psychological and physical impact of cancer.