Cervical Cancer Prevention Week: What You Need to Know

Cervical Cancer Prevention Week (19^th to 25^th January 2026) is an important time to raise awareness of cervical cancer, encourage people to attend screening and highlight prevention methods. This week serves as a reminder of how vital early detection and vaccination are in reducing risks.   

Cervical cancer is a type of cancer that affects the cervix, which is the lower part of the womb. It usually develops slowly, making regular screening highly effective in catching potential issues early. While most commonly diagnosed in people aged 30 to 35, anyone with a cervix can be affected.

The main cause of cervical cancer is infection with certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV). There are also other contributory risk factors, such as smoking, a weakened immune system, long-term use of the contraceptive pill, and having had certain other cancers. The good news is that with the right prevention strategies such as screening and vaccination, the risk can be significantly reduced. The NHS has set out a plan to eliminate cervical cancer in England by 2040, aligning with the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) goals.

Key Facts:

• Cervical screening (smear tests): In England, people aged 25 to 64 are invited to attend regular screening, which checks for high-risk HPV and cell changes before they develop into cancer.

• HPV vaccination: Offered to children aged 12 to 13 in the UK, the vaccine protects against the types of HPV most likely to cause cervical cancer.

• Other preventive measures: Attending cervical screening when invited, stop smoking, and discussing sexual health with a doctor can all help reduce risk.

• Symptoms: Cervical cancer often has no early symptoms, but unusual bleeding, discomfort, or discharge should always be checked by a medical professional.

Barriers to Cervical Cancer Prevention

Cervical Cancer Prevention Week also focuses on removing barriers that may prevent people from attending screening, such as fear, embarrassment, or not knowing how to access services.

Despite the effectiveness of cervical screening and HPV vaccination, over 5 million eligible people in England are not up to date with their screening, and vaccination uptake varies by region. Awareness campaigns and personalised NHS invitations aim to improve participation.

Cervical Cancer Travel Tips

Travelling after a cervical cancer diagnosis may require a little extra planning, and to help, we have put together the below helpful tips:

• Carry detail of your treatment and diagnosis: Bring details of your diagnosis and treatment history, and don’t forget to pack any medication you need in your hand luggage.
• Keep up with screening and follow-ups: Schedule any necessary appointments before your trip to ensure you are up to date with check-ups.

• Manage fatigue and energy levels: Treatment or recovery can affect stamina, so plan your itinerary with rest periods and avoid overexertion.

• Stay protected: Make sure you use a high SPF sunscreen, cancer treatments can affect how you skin reacts to sun, so you need to keep it protected.

• Know local healthcare facilities: Research hospitals or clinics at your destination in case you need medical assistance.

Travel Insurance and Cervical Cancer

If you have, or have previously had, a cervical cancer diagnosis and are planning a trip, it’s important to ensure your travel insurance provides the right level of cover. A current or past diagnosis could affect your quote, particularly if you are undergoing treatment or have any ongoing medical needs as a result of the treatment.

If you want to find out more about cervical cancer, how to get screened, or how to get the HPV vaccine, please visit the NHS website.

Ready to travel? Get a free quote today and find out more about our cancer travel insurance.

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