CERVICAL screenings are important tests that can help prevent the fourth most common cancer in women.

But figures show women across England are still regularly skipping the straightforward procedures, with fear, embarrassment, or a lack of understanding of what they involve among the reasons why, according to Jo's Cervical Cancer Trust.

Screenings, also known as "smear tests", are offered to women and people with a cervix aged 25 to 49 every three years, while those aged 50 to 64 receive their invitations every five years. A small sample of cells is taken and checked for pre-cancerous abnormalities.

Just 71 per cent of the 106,613 patients in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole eligible for a smear test by the end of 2021 attended a screening and had a clear result, according to NHS Digital data.

This was in line with the end of 2020, but a decrease from 73 per cent in December 2019.

Rates varied between the age groups last year, 75 per cent of eligible 50 to 64-year-olds had been screened as of the end of December, compared to 69 per cent of 25 to 49-year-olds.