24/01/2019

Up To 6,000 Women Will Need Repeat Smear Tests

Around 6,000 women are expected to be called for a repeat cervical smear test, the Health Service Executive has confirmed.

It comes after CervicalCheck was advised of a problem relating to standard HPV tests, as the manufacturer's recommended timeframe had passed.

The HSE added that action will be taken to investigate the issue and review any clinical impact of risk, while communicating with the women affected.

An expert team will establish the facts and will "shortly be in a position to communicate" their findings.

Dr Peter McKenna, Clinical Director of the HSE's Women and Infants Health Programme, said: "Our clinical review has assured us that this issue poses little risk to women's health. 

"Evidence shows that HPV tests of this kind are effective outside the manufacturer's recommended timeframe, but as a precaution, we will likely be asking some women to attend their GP for a repeat smear test to confirm the result and to provide them with reassurance."

He added: "Based on our current assessment of the information provided by Quest, we expect that up to 6,000 women will likely be called for a repeat smear test. These tests will be processed by the laboratory as a priority."



(JG/CM)

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