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If you re familiar with the term HPV, or human papillomavirus as it s known in the science world, then it s likely because you ve had the HPV jab (also known as the cervical cancer vaccine). HPV, which can be transmitted sexually, is responsible for 99.7% of cervical cancers. But despite that, knowledge surrounding this potentially cancer-causing virus - which can lay dormant in the body for up to 20 years - is pretty low.
In fact, in a survey previously conducted by Jo s Cervical Cancer Trust, it emerged that just over half (51%) of women quizzed were unaware that HPV infection is a risk factor for cervical cancer. So the experts at the charity thought they d help us clear up a few things up by dispelling some common myths that have been floating around about HPV.
SNP MSP Ruth Maguire revealed yesterday that she has been diagnosed with stage three cervical cancer NICOLA Sturgeon was among Scotland’s politicians to send warm wishes to SNP MSP Ruth Maguire who revealed yesterday that she has been diagnosed with stage three cervical cancer. Writing on Twitter, the First Minister said: “Sending love and strength to Ruth Maguire and her family – everyone in the SNP is thinking of you.” SNP MP Amy Callaghan also sent her heartfelt wishes after she experienced her own health battles. Callaghan, the MP for East Dunbartonshire, was diagnosed with melanoma when she was 19 and has been cancer-free since 2014.
Trans and non-binary people experience barriers to accessing cervical screenings due to discrimination, new research has confirmed.
The findings from Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust, which were published in the
British Journal of General Practice on Tuesday (18 May), surveyed 137 trans men and non-binary people about their experiences with cervical screening.
Among the respondents, 47 per cent reported they were eligible for cervical screening – but just over half (58 per cent) of this group had ever been screened for cervical cancer. Only 53 per cent of those eligible felt like they had sufficient information about cervical screening.
According to the research, trans men and non-binary people faced a range of factors impacting their ability and intention to attend cervical screenings. This included female-focused information, not receiving invitations for screenings and being discouraged or turned away from attending cervical screenings. Some participants felt they would not be