Cervical Cancer Prevention Week takes place from January 20th to 26th, 2025.
In recognition of this important week, the medical negligence experts at Higgs LLP have shared their professional advice on the vital importance of regular testing and access to medical support—whether you have symptoms of cervical cancer or not.
The medical negligence team at Higgs LLP understands firsthand the life-saving impact of early diagnosis and timely, appropriate medical interventions.
Charlotte Measures, Higgs LLP, medical negligence solicitor and accredited member of the AvMA (Action against Medical Accidents) panel, explains:
“Regardless of HPV vaccination status, attending regular cervical screening appointments is essential for early intervention. As a medical negligence solicitor, I’ve witnessed the devastating consequences delayed diagnoses or incorrect treatments can have on individuals and their families.
When it comes to cervical cancer, early diagnosis and prompt treatment can truly save lives. Cervical screening is an invaluable tool, and I would encourage everyone invited to attend without hesitation. It’s a simple step that can make a profound difference in outcomes, helping to avoid life-altering complications and ensuring the best possible care is received.”
“If something doesn’t feel right, visit your doctor. If they turn you down, see another. Keep asking. Keep pushing.”
Charlotte Measures
Medical Negligence Solicitor
“We know that medical misdiagnosis in women is a real issue. In fact, 1 in 4 have a gynaecological issue misdiagnosed. As such, if you have any symptoms of cervical cancer, or if something doesn’t feel right, visit your doctor. If they turn you down, see another. Keep asking. Keep pushing. It’s not only screening that saves lives, it’s a diagnosis. Research shows that when cervical cancer is diagnosed at an early stage, the 5-year relative survival rate is 91%. However, when cervical cancer is diagnosed after it has spread to a distant part of the body, this survival rate drops to 19%.
"1 in 4 have a gynaecological issue misdiagnosed"
Charlotte Measures
Medical Negligence Solicitor
Can cervical cancer be misdiagnosed, even with a Pap test?
“Cervical cancer can be misdiagnosed, even with a screening, which is why ongoing awareness and care are critical. While they are a great tool for early detection, misdiagnosis can occur due to errors in specimen collection, laboratory interpretation, or a lack of appropriate follow-up after abnormal results. False negatives—where abnormal cells go undetected—are particularly concerning, as they can delay life-saving interventions.
“Misdiagnosis isn’t confined to screening errors; it can also result from clinicians not fully investigating symptoms such as unusual vaginal discharge, pelvic pain, or abnormal bleeding. These symptoms may be overlooked or attributed to less serious conditions, especially as the NHS faces increasing financial and time pressures.
“For women, it’s essential to trust your instincts and persist in seeking answers if something feels wrong. For clinicians, every symptom and test result must be approached with care and diligence. Early and accurate diagnosis saves lives, making thorough investigations and clear communication at every stage is non-negotiable in the fight against cervical cancer.”
