Latest news with #MichelleMitchell
The Guardian
26-06-2025
- Health
- The Guardian
People dying early of cancer costs UK economy £10.3bn a year, study finds
People dying early of cancer costs the UK economy £10.3bn a year, more than any other health condition, a study has revealed. That is the total cost of the 350,000 years of lost productivity recorded across Britain every year because adults have died prematurely of the disease, according to Cancer Research UK (CRUK). Each early death costs the economy an average of £61,000, according to the charity's first research into how much the country loses as a result of the growing toll of cancer diagnoses and deaths. In 2021, cancer caused the loss of more productive years of life than any other condition – 350,000 years. Heart problems led to 257,000 years of lost productivity that year, while diseases of the digestive system caused 123,000 lost years and breathing conditions 85,000 years. Michelle Mitchell, CRUK's chief executive, said: 'Cancer has an immeasurable impact on patients and their loved ones. But this report reveals there is also a significant economic cost. Behind the figures in this report are real people – friends, family and co-workers – whose lives are being cut short by cancer. Through improving cancer survival, we can also have a positive impact on our economy.' The findings come as ministers wrestle with how a record 2.8 million people across the UK are too sick to work amid a sluggish economy. The charity reached its conclusions by subtracting the person's age at death from their expected age of death. They then calculated the economic value of the years of life lost to cancer by estimating that person's total expected earnings and measuring how much of those were lost. Deaths from lung cancer cost the UK more than any other form of the disease – £1.7bn. Those from bowel cancer cost £1.2bn while breast cancer fatalities cost £800m. Those are the three cancers that cause the largest number of deaths from the disease at the youngest ages, which leads to the most productive life years lost. They also cause more deaths in men than women which, because men on average earn more than women, results in a larger financial loss. Cancer deaths among people under the age of 50 lead to the annual loss of 119,000 lost years of productive life and a £3.2bn loss for the economy, the survey found. Those 119,000 lost years were from 5,900 people aged 15 to 49 dying in 2021. Among 50- to 64-year-olds the toll is even higher – 167,000 lost years per year, costing £5.1bn. David Finch, the assistant director of the healthy lives team at the Health Foundation thinktank, said: 'CRUK's findings are a sobering reminder of the increasing rising cost of ill health and disability in the working-age population, which is becoming ever more apparent. 'This issue is not going away with a projected 25% increase in the share of working-age people with diagnosed major illnesses by 2040.' More people are being diagnosed with cancer and dying from it than ever before, mainly because of the ageing population and the impact of obesity. There were 140,000 deaths a year from cancer between 1975 and 1977. The figure rose to 176,000 a year during 2023-25. CRUK says that on current trends it will increase to 208,000 deaths a year by 2038-40. Finch said planned benefit cuts would hamper the government's ambition to get more people well enough to start working again. 'The government's approach to tackling this is too short-term, with planned cuts to disability benefits likely to worsen people's health and reduce their employment chances.' A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said its 10-year health plan, being published next week, 'will set out how we will utilise the latest technology and techniques to improve cancer outcomes and transform care to give more families hope in the face of this devastating disease'. 'This includes rolling out DIY screening kits for cervical cancer, more radiotherapy machines in every region and opening more community diagnostic centres closer to where people live,' they said. 'We are also making progress in tackling some of the biggest causes of cancer, including our landmark tobacco and vapes bill to create the first smoke-free generation, and restricting junk food advertising to tackle obesity.'
Yahoo
24-06-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
At-home cervical screening tests offered in England
Women who have delayed coming forward for cervical screening will be offered a test to be taken at home, NHS England has said. The DIY test kits, available from January, contain a long cotton-wool bud to swab the lining of the vagina. The test is for human papillomavirus (HPV), which causes most cervical cancers, and women between the ages of 25 and 64 are offered it every few years. But more than five million women aren't up to date with the test, according to the government. The Department for Health and Social Care in England said the scheme would tackle "deeply entrenched barriers" that keep women away from cervical screening. This can be due to embarrassment, discomfort, lack of time as well as religious or cultural concerns. Just 68.8% of women currently take up the offer of cervical cancer screening - well below the NHS England target of 80%. Younger women, those with a disability, ethnic minority communities and LGBT+ groups are more likely to miss appointments. A recent trial showed the rollout of home test kits across England could increase the proportion screened to 77% over three years. The Department of Health said women who had rarely or never attended cervical screening would be offered a self-sample kit to complete at home. The kits are sent out "in discreet packaging" and the return postage is pre-paid. The test checks for HPV alone, but if that's detected then women will be invited for to see a doctor who will check for cell changes which could indicate cancer. Health and Social Care secretary Wes Streeting said: "We know the earlier cancer is diagnosed the better the chances are of survival. "By making screening more convenient, we're tackling the barriers that keep millions of women from potentially life-saving tests." Michelle Mitchell, chief executive of Cancer Research UK, said "beating cervical cancer means beating it for everyone" adding that at-home testing "helps to bring us closer to that goal". Hazel Stinson, 49, from Kent, suffers from chronic fatigue syndrome and was last able to visit the GP for a cervical screening six years ago. She says she is "absolutely thrilled" that at-home testing is being rolled out across England. "This will mean that I and millions of other people just like me will be able to have the test when otherwise they might not be able to do it," she added. Ms Stinson said as someone with chronic fatigue, which is also known as myalgic encephalomyelitis or ME, "the most important thing is to advocate for yourself". She says she has always been left "feeling fearful" that her inability to attend the GP regularly for tests like cervical screening could really affect her health. "I'm unwell enough as it is - I really don't want anything else on top of this," she explained. NHS England recently announced a separate change to the timing of cervical screening invitations. If women aged 25-49 have a negative test for HPV from this summer, they will wait five years until their next screening appointment instead of three. Research shows they're at very low risk of cervical cancer and can safely wait longer to be screened again. vaginal bleeding that's unusual for you – including during or after sex, between periods or after the menopause - or heavier periods than usual changes to vaginal discharge pain during sex or in the lower back, lower tummy or between the hip bones (pelvis) Source: NHS DIY kits may see million more cervical-cancer tests Vaccines could mean only one smear test a lifetime Cervical screening invites to change in England
Yahoo
16-06-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Cervical screening is changing – here's what the new 5-year test means for you
Smear tests are nobody's favourite, but they're a vital part of healthcare. Now, the way you're tested for HPV is changing. From July, invitations for cervical screening will be sent out every five years instead of every three for women aged 25-49 in England. Those with positive tests will still be required to have more regular check ups to make sure the HPV is clearing and no cell changes have occurred. HPV (human papillomavirus) causes almost all cervical cancers. However, most cases of HPV do not develop into the disease and are removed naturally by the body. Recent updates to HPV testing makes it more accurate, allowing less frequent testing to take place, according to the NHS. It says the changes are part of a 'more personalised' approach to testing that's in line with 'major clinical research'. It's also rolling out bookings via the NHS app, though letters will still be in place for those need them. This change to screenings has already made in Scotland and Wales, and follows the cervical screening recommendations from the UK National Screening Committee (UK NSC), an independent body of experts who review screening evidence and advise the four UK governments. While it may sound scary to hear you'll be tested less frequently, cancer charities are on board with the move. Michelle Mitchell, chief executive of Cancer Research UK, says: 'We welcome this change to cervical screening in England, which is the result of years of vital research to make screening more effective and has shown it is safe to extend the time between tests. Screening, alongside the roll out of the HPV vaccine, which Cancer Research UK scientists helped develop, have seen cervical cancer rates drop by around a quarter since the early 1990s, and we look forward to even more progress.' Athena Lamnisos, chief executive officer at The Eve Appeal, added: 'Every single case of cancer that can be prevented, should be, and this new guidance is good news for those at low risk because they will no longer need to go for cervical screening as often. Everyone should feel informed and supported when they are invited to go to their cervical screening appointment and understand these interval changes and why they will keep them protected.' Cervical screening is to test for symptomless cases of HPV. If you notice any changes that are unusual for you, or experience symptoms including unusual vaginal bleeding, changes to discharge, painful sex or pain in your abdomen, lower back or pelvic area, don't wait for your smear – talk to your GP right away. You Might Also Like 13 Buys To Help You Feel Great From £5 16 Speedo Swimsuits that Won't Flash Your Bum When Getting Swim-fit 11 Best Gym Trainers for Different Types of Workouts
Scottish Sun
11-06-2025
- Health
- Scottish Sun
Major change to NHS cancer screening tests as health chiefs reveal millions of women affected
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) MILLIONS of women will be offered NHS cervical screening less often under radical new changes. Those under 50 will only be called forward every five years - instead of three like they currently are. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 3 Health chiefs say new testing approach is backed by clinical evidence and 'more personalised' Credit: Getty The plans, announced on Tuesday by NHS England, are said to be "in line" with "major" clinical evidence that suggests just as many cancer cases would be detected. Health chiefs said the changes would enable 'millions of women and people with a cervix in England to benefit from more personalised cervical screening'. "This new guidance is good news for those at low risk because they will no longer need to go for cervical screening as often," Athena Lamnisos, CEO of The Eve Appeal, said. Scotland and Wales have already introduced this protocol, which will start in England from July 1. Under the NHS screening system, which replaced smears, cells are tested for the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), which causes almost all cervical cancer. Traditional smear tests, also known as pap smears, looked for all abnormal cells directly but were less accurate than the new cervical screening tests. Currently, women aged 25 to 49 in England are offered such checks every three years, with screening every five years for those aged 50 to 64. If HPV is found, checks are then repeated each year, with further investigations if any cell abnormalities are found. More regular screening is also offered to those with a recent history of HPV. Under the new system, checks on those with positive results will remain annual. Cervical cancer could be eradicated as HPV vaccine slashes 90% of cases But the standard gap for those who test negative will extend from three years to five for women aged 25 to 49. This is because research shows they are at very low risk of cervical cancer for the next ten years and can safely wait longer to be screened again. This puts it in line with the gap for older women, in a similar approach to that adopted by Australia, the Netherlands and Sweden. Under the NHS plan, if a woman aged between 25 and 49 had a negative result, but previously had a positive test, they would still get a test three years later. Health chiefs said the new approach was more 'personalised' than previous approaches. Screening will also continue to be offered to trans men if they still have a cervix. 3 3 A DIY cervical screening test that women can do at home could be rolled out on the NHS Michelle Mitchell, chief executive of Cancer Research UK, said: 'We welcome this change to cervical screening in England, which is the result of years of vital research to make screening more effective and has shown it is safe to extend the time between tests. 'Screening, alongside the roll out of the HPV vaccine – which Cancer Research UK scientists helped develop – have seen cervical cancer rates drop by around a quarter since the early 1990s, and we look forward to even more progress. 'If you notice any unusual changes for you, do not wait for a screening invitation – speak to your doctor.' DIY cancer check Cervical screening programmes and HPV vaccines have reduced rates and save 5,000 lives each year. Around 3,300 new cases are identified annually - that's around nine every day. And one in 130 women in the UK will be diagnosed with cervical cancer in their lifetime. Earlier this year, the NHS announced an at-home cervical screening tests could be rolled out in England from early 2026 for free. A new trial, known as the King's College London YouScreen trial, is the biggest to date and shows how the DIY kit can boost the numbers of women getting screened. Figures show that cervical screening uptake is declining, with nearly a third of women in England - particularly younger women - not taking up their most recent test. Experts say women may refuse testing due to a lack of convenient appointments, embarrassment and worries about the test causing pain. The new plan includes expanding the "ping and book" service, which sends reminders for screening appointments.
The Irish Sun
11-06-2025
- Health
- The Irish Sun
Major change to NHS cancer screening tests as health chiefs reveal millions of women affected
MILLIONS of women will be offered NHS cervical screening less often under radical new changes. Those under 50 will only be called forward every five years - instead of three like they currently are. 3 Health chiefs say new testing approach is backed by clinical evidence and 'more personalised' Credit: Getty The plans, announced on Tuesday by NHS England, are said to be "in line" with "major" clinical evidence that suggests just as many cancer cases would be detected. Health chiefs said the changes would enable 'millions of women and people with a cervix in England to benefit from more personalised cervical screening'. "This new guidance is good news for those at low risk because they will no longer need to go for cervical screening as often," Athena Lamnisos, CEO of Scotland and Wales have already introduced this protocol, which will start in England from July 1. Read more on cervical cancer Under the NHS screening system, which replaced Traditional smear tests, also known as pap smears, looked for all abnormal cells directly but were less accurate than the new cervical screening tests. Currently, women aged 25 to 49 in England are offered such checks every three years, with screening every five years for those aged 50 to 64. If HPV is found, checks are then repeated each year, with further investigations if any cell abnormalities are found. Most read in Health More regular screening is also offered to those with a recent history of HPV. Under the new system, checks on those with positive results will remain annual. Cervical cancer could be eradicated as HPV vaccine slashes 90% of cases But the standard gap for those who test negative will extend from three years to five for women aged 25 to 49. This is because research shows they are at very low risk of cervical cancer for the next ten years and can safely wait longer to be screened again. This puts it in line with the gap for older women, in a similar approach to that adopted by Australia, the Netherlands and Sweden. Under the NHS plan, if a woman aged between 25 and 49 had a negative result, but previously had a positive test, they would still get a test three years later. Health chiefs said the new approach was more 'personalised' than previous approaches. Screening will also continue to be offered to trans men if they still have a cervix. 3 3 A DIY cervical screening test that women can do at home could be rolled out on the NHS Michelle Mitchell, chief executive of Cancer Research UK, said: 'We welcome this change to cervical screening in England, which is the result of years of vital research to make screening more effective and has shown it is safe to extend the time between tests. 'Screening, alongside the roll out of the HPV vaccine – which Cancer Research UK scientists helped develop – have seen cervical cancer rates drop by around a quarter since the early 1990s, and we look forward to even more progress. 'If you notice any unusual changes for you, do not wait for a screening invitation – speak to your doctor.' DIY cancer check programmes and have reduced rates and save 5,000 lives each year. Around 3,300 new cases are identified annually - that's around nine every day. And one in 130 women in the UK will be diagnosed with cervical cancer in their lifetime. Earlier this year, the NHS announced an at-home cervical screening tests could be rolled out in England from early 2026 for free. A new trial, known as the King's College London YouScreen trial, is the biggest to date and shows how the DIY kit can boost the numbers of women getting screened. Figures show that cervical screening uptake is declining, with nearly a third of women in England - particularly younger women - not taking up their most recent test. Experts say women may refuse testing due to a lack of convenient appointments, embarrassment and worries about the test causing pain. The new plan includes expanding the "ping and book" service, which sends reminders for screening appointments. Who's at risk of cervical cancer? Nearly all cervical cancers are caused by an infection with certain high-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is the name for a very common group of viruses that most people will get some type of HPV during their lives. It's very common and nothing to feel ashamed or embarrassed about. You can get HPV from any kind of skin-to-skin contact of the genital area, not just from penetrative sex. This includes: Vaginal, oral or anal sex Any skin-to-skin contact of the genital area Sharing sex toys In most cases your body will get rid of HPV without it causing any problems. But sometimes HPV can stay in your body for a long time and some types of high risk types of HPV can cause cervical cancer. If high risk types of HPV stay in your body, they can cause changes to the cells in your cervix. These changes may become cervical cancer if not treated. How to lower your risk of cervical cancer You can't always prevent cervical cancer. But there are things you can do to lower your chances of getting cervical cancer. Cervical screening and HPV vaccination are the best ways to protect yourself from cervical cancer. All women and people with a cervix between the ages of 25 and 64 are invited for regular All children aged 12 to 13 are offered the You can also lower your chance of getting cervical cancer by: Using condoms, which lower your chance of getting HPV – but they do not cover all the skin around your genitals so you're not fully protected Quitting smoking – smoking can weaken your immune system and the chemicals in cigarettes can also cause cervical cancer Source: NHS
