Maintain the current 3-year interval for smear tests.

Background

Changing smear tests from every 3 to 5 years puts women aged 25–49 at risk. Cervical cancer can develop fast. A 5-year gap could mean missed early signs and more late-stage diagnoses. HPV tests aren’t perfect. Act now — protect lives. Keep smear tests every 3 years!

Additional details

The 3-year interval has been proven to save lives. Changing it now would undo years of progress in cervical cancer prevention — and risk more women being diagnosed late, when treatment is more invasive and outcomes are poorer. We call on the government and NHS decision-makers to protect women’s health and keep smear tests every 3 years for women aged 25 to 49. This is about prevention, early detection, and ultimately, saving lives.