Government inaction has led to Ireland having one of the highest cervical cancer death rates in Western Europe, according to the Irish Cancer Society.
In association with 25 trade unions and health organisations, including Ictu and the Irish Medical Organisation (IMO), the Society today called for the introduction of a free nationwide cervical cancer screening programme for women aged 25-60.
Irish Cancer Society chief executive John McCormack
According to campaigners, the Government promised such a programme, which it is estimated will reduce the incidence of cervical cancer by up to 80 per cent, nine years ago and it is believed that it would cost €18 million to implement.
There are approximately 1000 new cases of cervical pre-cancer, 200 cases of cervical cancer and 70 deaths from cervical cancer in the Republic every year. The majority of women suffering from the disease are young, with an average age of 45.
Screening can prevent the development of cervical cancer by detecting it at a pre-cancer stage, which can be treated before the cells become cancerous and spread. In Britain, a national screening programme was introduced in 1988 and it is estimated that this programme saves up to 5,000 lives per year.
Irish Cancer Society Medical Committee member, Dr Grainne Flannelly, said that women who are excluded from the current cervical screening programme are at an increased risk of developing the condition and that many will die as a result.
Chief Executive of the Society, John McCormack, said that, in the absence of a national programme, it was important that women were regularly tested for the illness.
"We would encourage all women aged between 25-35 years to have a cervical smear every three years and thereafter at five yearly intervals if the smear is negative until the age of 60 years," he said.
"We appreciate that this is difficult for a lot of women because it can cost up to €55 every time but it can save your life."