Each year, approximately 284 women in Ireland are diagnosed with cervical cancer and up to 70 lives are lost. Along with the HPV vaccine, regular cervical screening is the most effective way to reduce the risk of cancer developing. I was thrilled to be joined by the incredible Laura on this weeks podcast. Not only is Laura the wonderful person who founded @lovejools but she is on a journey to kick cancer.

We dive deep into Laura's journey with cervical cancer - Laura tells us about receiving her cervical cancer diagnosis at 33 having never missed a smear test and her journey to kick cancer. Laura also tells us about the new cervical screening programme and how it will save more lives than the smear alone did.

The main takeaway from the podcast is that discussing cervical screening is so important and nothing to be embarrassed or nervous about. Cervical cancer is a very treatable and preventable cancer, if it is detected early, allowing for adequate monitoring and treatment. Since March 2020, Ireland has introduced a more comprehensive screening process which allows the detection of HPV. HPV is the main cause of cervical cancer. Finding HPV first is a better way to screen for cervical cancer. Every woman in Ireland, aged 25 to 60 is entitled to a free cervical screening through CervicalCheck every 3-5 years. If you want to be extra vigilant you can opt for a private smear which can cost from €50 upwards.

You can register for free cervical screening here: www.cervicalcheck.ie/

More information about the CervicalCheck tribunal - www.cervicalchecktribunal.ie