Cervical Cancer Campaign Posted or Updated on 16 Aug 2024

Erin Kennedy MBE (Paralympic GB Rowing gold medallist) and Donna Fraser OBE (four-time Olympic GB Athlete) were diagnosed with cancer during the height of their careers. They have now joined forces for a new campaign to help eliminate cervical cancer. The campaign has been launched by all four London Cancer Alliances to coincide with the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

The athletes are urging eligible people to attend their cervical screening appointment, as it can prevent cervical cancer. 

Cervical screening is offered to women and all people with a cervix, between the ages of 25 to 64, and helps prevent cervical cancer by checking for a virus known as human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV can cause abnormal cells to develop in the cervix. Over time these abnormal cells can turn into cancer if left untreated.

In London only 58% of 25 to 49-year-olds attend cervical screening, with the attendance significantly higher for 50 to 64-year-olds at 70%.

Both athletes are strong advocates for women's health and are hoping to harness the feel-good spirit of the 2024 Paris Games to encourage women to prioritise their health and attend their NHS cervical screening appointment - as it can prevent cervical cancer.