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UCF Welcome Cervical Cancer Vaccine
By Derval Keenan, 6/1/2005 12:23:11 PM
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The Ulster Cancer Foundation (UCF) today welcomed the announcement that a vaccine against cervical cancer could be available within two years.
Alan George, newly appointed Head of Care Services, UCF said, Results from recent trials have been very promising but we would encourage women to continue to attend for regular cervical screening which is available through the National Health Service.
The most common symptom of cervical cancer is abnormal bleeding, such as between periods or after intercourse. While there are many other possible causes of this symptom, we would encourage women to talk to their local GP if they have concerns. Women may feel embarrassed about seeking help for cervical cancer however GPs are very sensitive to the needs of the patient - and dont forget theyve heard it all before. Some symptoms can be caused by a less serious condition, therefore women shouldnt just wait and hope that the symptoms will disappear but get it checked out as soon as possible.
The good news is that in Northern Ireland the incidence of cervical cancer has not increased over the last number of years and deaths have dropped by nearly one third. Early detection has a direct link to patients surviving cervical cancer, therefore UCF continues to educate local women on the signs and symptoms of the disease and promote the value of screening, which greatly improves the outcome for patients with this type of cancer.
If you have any concerns about cancer please call UCFs confidential freefone cancer helpline, which is manned by specially trained nurses who provide accurate and easily understood information on all aspects of cancer. UCFs Freefone Cancer Helpline number is: 0800 783 33 39.
-ends-
For further information please contact:
Alan George, Head of Care Services, UCF on
028 9049 2007 / 07763 119880
OR
Derval Keenan, PR and Events Officer, UCF on
028 9049 2007 / 07812 525531
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