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Cervical Cancer: Screening

Asked by Jim ShannonDemocratic Unionist PartyDepartment of Health and Social CareTabled Answered 27 April 2026UIN 128664

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, whether he plans to expand screening programmes for early detection of Cervical Cancer.

Answered by Mrs Sharon Hodgson

The Government is committed to improving cancer screening services in line with the National Cancer Plan and as part of the 10-Year Health Plan’s shift from sickness to prevention.

Later this year, we will start to offer self-testing for human papilloma virus to women who have missed their cervical screening appointments by at least six months. This expansion aims to overcome barriers that stop women from taking up cervical screening which can both prevent and catch cervical cancer early.

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