In 2018, despite never having missed a routine smear test, I began displaying symptoms leading up to my scheduled 3-year smear test. However, no one could provide a smear test until I received my official letter inviting me to attend. Finally, in November 2019, I had my smear, only to be informed that I had severe grade changes. These changes had developed in less than three years. This personal experience highlights the critical need to maintain more frequent screenings to catch potential health issues earlier.

Extending the interval between smear tests from three years to five could lead to missed diagnoses and an increase in cervical cancer cases, which could have otherwise been prevented or treated at an earlier stage. According to Cancer Research UK, cervical screening currently prevents an estimated 5,000 deaths annually. By extending the testing interval, we risk increasing the number of women who face late-stage diagnoses due to missed early warning signs.

The three-year interval is already pushing the limits of health security for many women, as my story illustrates. A five-year interval could allow for significant developments in cervical abnormalities without detection. Given the rapid nature with which cervical changes can occur, it is imperative that we do not extend these intervals and instead work towards enhanced awareness and availability of screening for all women, especially those exhibiting symptoms before their scheduled tests.

We call upon health authorities to recognize the potential dangers of extending the smear test intervals and uphold the current 3-year schedule. Women's health should never be compromised due to administrative or financial considerations. Our health system must prioritize prevention and timely diagnosis to protect women's lives.

Please sign this petition to urge continued vigilance and protection of women's health by maintaining the 3-year interval for smear tests.