International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics

It is vitally important that all women go for smear tests, according to one heath expert.

Robert Music, director of the UK-based Jo's Trust, described screening as "a really important preventative tool".

He said the UK, unlike many countries in the developing world, is very fortunate to be able to provide women with both cervical screenings and HPV vaccinations, but it is the responsibility of individuals to take advantage of them.

Mr Music commented: "We've got two programmes that could pretty much prevent the majority of cervical cancers, if everyone was screened or vaccinated.

"It's vitally important to get the message out there that [cervical] screenings saves lives."

He suggested that some women are put off seeking medical advice and treatment due to personal embarrassment, in addition to worries about the procedures themselves.

Mr Music said there needs to be greater public education about what screening is all about - preventing cancer.

Last month, Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo, a member of the executive council for health in KwaZulu-Natal province, South Africa, claimed regular medical check-ups are crucial for all women.

Posted by Paul Robertson