A THIRD of women in South Gloucestershire have not attended a cervical cancer screening they were due in the last three and a half years.

Women are invited to attend a smear test every three years to prevent the cancer from developing but have failed to go to their appointment.

NHS health chiefs are urging women aged between 25 and 64 to attend their smear test when they are invited to do so by their GP. Women who are over 64 should get checked for the illness every five years.

The test prevents up to an estimated 75 per cent of cervical cancers developing. However, according to the Cancer Research charity, in 2014, a total of 890 women in the UK died as a result of the cancer.

The Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire Clinical Commissioning Group’s clinical lead for cancer, Dr Alison Wint said: “Smear tests can often feel embarrassing for women, however by doing so it means you are giving yourself the best possible chance of preventing cervical cancer.

“If you have had your smear test, please encourage your female friends and relatives to do so as many women are too embarrassed to attend the appointment.

“Screening allows us to identify abnormal cells before they become cancer, which means effective treatment can start – so early detection really does save lives.

“Please ensure your local GP has your most recent address so they are able to send you the invitation in the post.”