Story perspectives

Stage Two Cancer Survivor Fights for Early Smear Tests

11/14/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Paige McCall criticized the NHS for denying her a smear test due to her age, despite heavy bleeding and a family history of cervical cancer.
After several hospital visits during her pregnancy, she was diagnosed with stage two cervical cancer in October 2025, following a biopsy referral at seven months.
McCall is campaigning for smear tests to be available to women as young as 16, emphasizing the importance of early detection.
The NHS plans to reduce cervical cancer rates by increasing HPV vaccination and screening, with at-home smear tests set to begin in January 2026.

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Story summary

Paige McCall criticized the NHS for denying her a smear test due to her age, despite heavy bleeding and a family history of cervical cancer.
After several hospital visits during her pregnancy, she was diagnosed with stage two cervical cancer in October 2025, following a biopsy referral at seven months.
McCall is campaigning for smear tests to be available to women as young as 16, emphasizing the importance of early detection.
The NHS plans to reduce cervical cancer rates by increasing HPV vaccination and screening, with at-home smear tests set to begin in January 2026.