Cervical Cancer Awareness Month 2026: Eliminating cervical cancer for good

What is cervical cancer?

Cervical cancer is a type of cancer caused by cell changes in the cervix (the lower part of the uterus). More than 3,200 women and people with a cervix are diagnosed with cervical cancer each year in the UK alone. Yet, many people miss cervical screening tests, which are essential for identifying early cell changes in the cervix. 

There are two main types of cervical cancer:

• Squamous cell carcinoma: Develops from the squamous cells that cover the outside of the cervix.

• Adenocarcinoma: Develops from a type of cell found in the cervical canal (the endocervix).

There are several rarer types of cervical cancer, including adenosquamous carcinoma, clear cell carcinoma, neuroendocrine carcinoma, lymphoma, and sarcoma.

Symptoms of cervical cancer

In its early stages, cervical cancer often doesn’t present any symptoms, which makes regular screening highly important. However, as the disease develops, patients may notice several signs, including:

• Vaginal bleeding that is unusual for them, such as between periods, during or after sex, or after the menopause.
• Heavier bleeding than usual.
• Changes to vaginal discharge. 
• Pain in the lower back or lower stomach.

These symptoms may also be signs of other conditions, such as endometriosis or fibroids. So, it is important to consult a doctor who can examine for other signs of the disease. In fact, women and people with a cervix should attend regular cervical screening appointments to identify any changes in the cells in and around the cervix. 

Screening for cervical cancer

In the UK, individuals with a cervix aged between 25 and 64 are offered cervical screening every five years.

An initial cervical screening examination includes a smear test, which involves taking a sample of cells from the cervix with a soft brush. These cells are then tested for the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), which causes up to 99% of cervical cancers. As the primary cause of cervical cancer, spotting HPV early through cervical testing can be crucial in ensuring timely treatment.

If a smear test reveals abnormalities - namely, the presence of HPV or any other abnormal cell - you will usually be referred for an appointment where a doctor will take a closer look at your cervix through a test called a colposcopy. During a colposcopy, a clinician uses a tool called a colposcope to closely examine the cervix, applying a solution to help highlight any abnormal areas. A small sample may also be taken for further testing. 

If you are diagnosed with cervical cancer, you will usually be referred for further tests, possibly including blood tests, scans (such as an MRI or CT scan), and an internal examination of your vagina and cervix. These tests will help your doctors to identify the size, type, and stage of the cancer.

What are the treatments for cervical cancer?

The treatment for cervical cancer can vary depending on the size, location, and type of the cancer and how far it has spread. Treatment options usually include surgery, chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy. The best treatment for you will be decided in consultation with a specialist team, who will discuss the benefits and side effects of each option. 

Surgery for cervical cancer

In many cases, surgery will be recommended as the primary treatment for cervical cancer, particularly when the cancer is spotted early. This may include removing part of the cervix, the whole cervix and the upper part of the vagina, and in some cases, the womb, ovaries, and fallopian tubes. If the cancer has spread or comes back following initial treatment, it may be necessary to also remove the bladder, bowel, vagina, rectum or some lymph nodes. 

Surgery can be effective at removing the cancerous cells from the cervix; however, recovery from these procedures can be long and associated with significant side effects. 

Chemotherapy and radiotherapy

Chemotherapy and radiotherapy are often used together to kill cancer cells in the body. When treating cervical cancer, this may be recommended as the main treatment or after surgery to prevent the cancer from coming back. While radiotherapy uses radiation to kill cancer cells, chemotherapy involves administering cytotoxic drugs, usually through an IV. 

Both of these treatments can be associated with significant side effects, including nausea and vomiting, decreased appetite, and fatigue. 

Medical cannabis and cervical cancer

Medical cannabis is not considered a primary treatment for cervical cancer, but for some patients, it may be beneficial for managing some of the side effects of the condition and its treatment. 

In the UK, medical cannabis can be prescribed for a wide range of conditions, including for cancer support. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) currently recommends the prescription of medical cannabis for chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) when conventional treatments have failed to deliver adequate relief. 

The anti-nausea effect of medical cannabis is supported by several studies. One study, published in 2024, assessed the effects of an oral cannabis extract in patients with refractory nausea and/or vomiting associated with chemotherapy. The study found that medical cannabis improved the response rate from 8% to 24% compared with placebo. Overall, participants experienced reduced nausea, fewer daily vomits, and used fewer rescue medications. 

Don’t miss your screening appointment this Cervical Cancer Awareness Month

Every January, health organisations and charities around the world aim to raise awareness around cervical cancer screening and HPV vaccination. In 2020, the World Health Organisation (WHO) set a goal to eliminate cervical cancer globally by 2120. The Cervical Cancer Elimination Initiative is led by the 90-70-90 targets: 90% of girls vaccinated against HPV; 70% of women screened; and 90% of individuals with cervical cancer or pre-cancerous lesions treated.

Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable and treatable forms of cancer, but screening and early diagnosis is essential. This Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, take a minute to ensure your screening appointments are up to date - and get in touch with your GP if you’re unsure! 

If you’re interested in learning more about medical cannabis for cancer support, our team of specialist doctors are always on hand to help. Complete our medical cannabis eligibility checker to find out if medical cannabis treatment could be an option for you - it only takes 20 seconds!