Downpatrick woman opens up on 'shock' cervical cancer diagnosis

Nadia Breen

17 June 2024 at 3:37 pm·2-min read

A Co Down woman has opened up on her 'shock' cervical cancer diagnosis. 39-year-old Andrea Barker from Downpatrick is now urging women to prioritise their cervical screening.

Andrea was diagnosed with Stage 1 Cervical Cancer in July 2023, and said "the outcome for me could have been a lot different".

She initially visited her GP for an unrelated medical issue when her doctor noticed that her cervical screening test was overdue. Her GP then performed the cervical screening test, and the results that followed confirmed the presence of Stage 1 Cervical Cancer.

Andrea said: "When the hospital contacted me following my screening test to say there was something abnormal had shown up, I guessed that it was something more serious.

“Receiving the diagnosis was a shock, but it has made me incredibly grateful for the diligence of my GP. It highlights the importance of not delaying these vital tests. At the time, I urged my family and friends to go and get their smear tests carried out as soon as possible, they all went straight away!

“The outcome for me could have been a lot different, I was so lucky it was caught in the early stages. Cervical screening can save lives.

"Please don’t put it off, if you are anxious in any way about attending, talk to your GP or Nurse, they will make you feel at ease. It can truly make a difference in your life."

A statement said the Co Down woman's diagnosis "came as a result of a timely cervical screening test, highlighting the critical importance of regular screenings in the early detection and treatment of Cervical Cancer".

Clinical Nurse Specialist, Paula Dempster added: "Attending for your cervical screening is one of the most important things that you can do to protect yourself from the risk of Cervical Cancer. Cervical screening saves lives!"

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