The NHS has shared a reminder this week, as it aims to eliminate the cancer by 2040
10:23, 19 Jan 2026Updated 11:08, 19 Jan 2026
Over 99% of cases are preventable through screening and vaccination (stock image)(Image: Getty)
The NHS has committed to eradicating cervical cancer by 2040. In a recent update, the health service reiterated its pledge and encouraged millions across the nation to get tested. The NHS’s strategy is to bring the number of cases down to nearly zero in England by enhancing the HPV vaccination programme for both boys and girls.
Today (January 19) marks the beginning of Cervical Cancer Prevention Week. As part of its Love Your Cervix campaign, the NHS aims to raise awareness and stimulate action to prevent cervical cancer by promoting HPV vaccinations and regular cervical screenings (also known as smear tests). These tests are crucial in detecting HPV and any cellular changes before cancer can develop.
The objective is to reduce the incidence of cervical cancer to fewer than four cases per 100,000 women, a rate considered as “eliminated” by the WHO. England is among the first countries in the world to set this elimination ambition within the next two decades.
In its update, the NHS stated: “The NHS has pledged to eliminate cervical cancer by 2040”. It also shared the latest advice on testing: “Cervical screening, along with the HPV vaccination and treatment for cell changes, can all help prevent cervical cancer.”
During Cervical Cancer Prevention Week, the NHS is urging all eligible women aged between 25 and 64 to attend their cervical screening appointments. This annual campaign runs from January 19 to 25, reports the Mirror.
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Dr Daghni Rajasingam, deputy medical director for NHS England in the South East, said: “Together with the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, regular cervical screening is the most effective way to protect against cervical cancer and prevents more than seven in 10 cases. Cervical screening saves lives. A few minutes could prevent cancer. If you’ve been invited, please book your appointment.”
Cervical cancer claims approximately 685 lives annually in England. More than 99% of cervical cancers are caused by a persistent Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection. Eliminating this disease is becoming increasingly achievable due to the impact of the screening programme and the high uptake of the HPV vaccine.
The NHS is working to improve access to cervical screening, with options including self-sampling and booking through the NHS App. This initiative aligns with the WHO’s global targets for eliminating cervical cancer.
The goal is to prevent thousands of deaths each year by stopping the disease before it develops. The HPV vaccine has already contributed to a nearly 90% reduction in cervical cancer amongst young women.
The cancer is most common in women aged 30-34(Image: )
The programme will be extended to include boys and offer catch-up vaccinations in community settings for people up to 25 years old. Vaccination combined with screening provides highly effective protection against the disease.
What happens in a cervical test?
A cervical screening, also known as a smear test, is extremely quick. The actual cell collection takes less than five minutes, although the entire appointment may last around 10 minutes to allow for preparation and discussion.
During the procedure, a nurse or doctor uses a soft brush to collect cells from your cervix. These cells are then examined for Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and any abnormal changes that could lead to cervical cancer. Results typically arrive within a few weeks.
Cervical cancer ranks as the fourteenth most common cancer amongst women in England (accounting for one per cent of all new female cancers). It’s one of the most prevalent cancers in younger women (aged 30-44), with approximately 3,300 new cases diagnosed annually. This figure reflects the success of screening programmes and HPV vaccinations, which have significantly reduced incidence rates.
What are the signs and symptoms of cervical cancer?
If you suffer from other conditions such as fibroids or endometriosis, you might regularly experience similar symptoms and become accustomed to them. However, it’s crucial to consult a doctor if your symptoms alter, worsen, or simply don’t feel normal for you.
The NHS states: “These symptoms are very common and can be caused by many different conditions. Having them does not definitely mean you have cervical cancer. But it’s important to get them checked by a GP. This is because if they’re caused by cancer, finding it early means treatment is more likely to be successful.”
