THOUSANDS of young women in Glasgow are refusing a test that could save their lives.

Figures show 44% of women aged 21-24 ignored an invitation for a smear test appointment in 2010-2011.

Although cases of cervical cancer are rare for those aged under 30, research shows rates among women aged 20-29 have risen in England, where screening does not start until 25.

Around 2800 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer in the UK each year.

But Greater Glasgow continues to have the lowest Scottish uptake for smear tests in women of all ages.

The uptake for the test in 2010/11 was 74.5%, below the Scottish average of 79.1% and well below the NHS target of 80%.

Data shows the lowest uptake of 66% was in Glasgow's North West, which takes in Maryhill.

The highest uptake was in the more affluent areas of East Dunbartonshire and East Renfrewshire, which achieved above the minimum standard of 80%.

Of the 349,492 eligible women, 60,776 (17.4%) did not take up the invitation to have a smear, despite a letter and two reminders.

Almost a third of cervical cancer cases were detected during the screening process.

Women aged 20-60 from the NHS Greater Glasgow And Clyde area are invited to have a cervical smear test every three years.

Dr Emilia Crighton, head of NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde's cervical screening programme, said: "We need to normalise the test amongst young women.We are screening for changes in the cervix and not for cancer.

"In terms of the change in age of screening, we are waiting to find out the results of a review. But what we do know is that where the screening starts at 25, it is more likely that women may not have been screened at all in their 20s."

Young girls in the UK are now offered the human papillomavirus (HPV) jab to protect them against the disease that causes most cases of cervical cancer.

In 2009 Jade Goody, best known for appearing in the TV show Big Brother, died from cervical cancer. She was just 27.

Her death led to a temporary increase in younger women going for screening.

The Scottish Government is considering advice on the age range and frequency of cervical screening.

caroline.wilson@ eveningtimes.co.uk

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