The players are helping to promote the important role cervical screening, also known as a smear test, plays in the prevention of cervical cancer in a bid to encourage their female fans and local women to take up their invites.

Julie Higgins, Club Secretary at SWLFC is keen to kick off her support for the cervical screening campaign after her own cervical screening appointment picked up abnormalities. The early detection allowed for prompter treatment highlighting the importance of attending routine cervical screening appointments.

Julie said: “I’m very glad I was on the ball and attended my smear test when I was invited. Having abnormal cells detected early on meant that they were treated before they progressed into cancer.

“I think it’s really important women talk more openly about cervical screening and encourage their friends to attend their appointments. I am keen to make sure that the ladies in our squad are all looking after their health and taking up their cervical screening appointments.”

It is estimated that early detection and treatment through cervical screening can prevent up to 75% of cervical cancers from developing.

Women aged between 25 and 49 will receive an appointment every three years and women aged between 50 and 64 will be invited for screening every five years.

SWLFC defender, Jen Burke said: “Cervical screening is an important part of women’s health care. The sooner something is detected the sooner it can be treated. I would encourage any women overdue their appointment to take 5 minutes out of their day to protect their health and have a smear test.”

Women who have missed their cervical screening appointment are encouraged to contact their local GP to book an appointment.

Kay Ellis, Hospital Based Programme Co-ordinator for Sheffield said: “Cervical screening is not a test for cancer but a way of detecting any abnormalities in the cervix which if left alone may become a problem in the future.

“Quite often fears or concerns about cervical screening can be overcome by getting more information about the process. I would urge anybody who is nervous about attending their screening appointment to visit fearorsmear.dbh.nhs.uk.”

The ‘Fear or Smear’ campaign aims to dispel any myths or fears women may have around attending their cervical screening appointments.

Don’t let your fears stop you from taking the test. Find out more at http://fearorsmear.dbh.nhs.uk.