Screening improvements mean routine cervical screening interval now changing to five years Significant advances in screening technology and the understanding of cervical cancer prevention means that the interval, for those who test negative for Human Papillomavirus (HPV), will be increased from three years to five. More effective testing methods, which have been in use on the Island since 2018, mean that HPV, the virus that causes 99.7% of cervical cancer, is now detected well before it gets the chance to develop. This means invasive smear tests are needed less frequently for those who test negative for HPV. To reflect this, from 1 July those aged 25 to 49 who test negative for high-risk HPV at their next screening will be invited again after five years for another routine test. This safe and effective change is based on the latest clinical evidence and follows a recommendation made by the UK National Screening Committee (UKNSC) in February 2019 and changes to screening intervals across the UK. Public Health Isle of Man has evaluated the last six years of data since the original recommendation and supports the interval change being introduced in the Isle of Man as results show it is a safe and effective change. Anyone who tests positive for HPV, or has abnormal cells identified, will continue to receive advice, treatment and support individual to their needs. The change in screening intervals does not affect your ability to speak to your doctor or request further investigation if you have any concerns, are experiencing unusual symptoms, or for those who return an abnormal or positive result for HPV. People are invited to hear more about the changes and ask questions to representatives from Public Health, Manx Care, DHSC and the Isle of Man Anti-Cancer Association. Spaces can be booked online: 17 June 1 – 2pm at Keyll Darree, Nobles Hospital, Douglas 6 – 7pm at Keyll Darree, Nobles Hospital, Douglas 19 June 6 – 7pm online event Director of Public Health, Dr. Matt Tyrer, said: ‘We have reviewed the UKNSC recommendation and research, and thanks to modernisation and improvement of testing and treatment we are also able to move from a three to five-year testing interval. 'We increased testing accuracy on the Island in 2018 by changing from cytology to testing for high-risk HPV, the virus that accounts for most cervical cancer cases. We know that those who don’t have HPV have a very low risk of developing cervical cancer within five years. It takes around 10 to 15 years for cervical cancer to develop after an HPV infection, which means that this regular screening will pick up cell changes before they develop into cervical cancer. 'This tells us that we don’t need to carry out screening as often, which will help to balance the benefits and harms of screening, while providing a more efficient and safer programme.’ Isle of Man Anti-Cancer Association Executive Officer, Sandy Denning, said: ‘At the Staywell Clinic, we have been offering cervical screening for over 60 years, and we feel that this move is a logical step forward for women of the Isle of Man. 'The shift to five-yearly screening intervals is based on the understanding that screening is not a test for the presence of cancer but is a more accurate way of identifying individuals at high risk of developing cervical cancer. 'Concerningly, cervical screening attendance rates are falling so if you receive a reminder letter, please give us a call, on 642638, and make that appointment where our nurses will put you at ease and explain the process. We look forward to welcoming you to the Staywell Clinic – a service funded and managed by the IOM Anti-Cancer Association.’ Manx Care Chief Executive Officer, Teresa Cope, said: ‘We encourage all women to attend their screening appointment as it remains one of the most effective ways to prevent cervical cancer. 'It is important to talk these changes through with women so please come along to the events planned. 'If you have any concerns, please contact our MCALS Service.' It’s important to be aware that while nearly all cervical cancers are caused by HPV, a very small number are not, and would not usually be detected through a standard smear test. It remains essential to be aware of symptoms such as unusual bleeding, pain, or discharge, and to seek medical advice promptly if they occur. Regardless of HPV vaccination status, attending routine screening remains important. While vaccination significantly reduces the risk of infection, it does not eliminate the need for regular screening. The programme continues to invite everyone who is eligible, regardless of their vaccination history. Please visit the cervical cancer screening webpage for more information on testing and results, including frequently asked questions, or the HPV vaccination webpage for information on HPV and the vaccine. For any concerns please MCALS by email at [email protected] or telephone 01624 642642.