Dr Dawn Harper on how the NHS has changed over the years

[LEK2129]

It's a disgrace that under 25's are banned from smear tests when we have to pay taxes to fund them for other people but aren't allowed them ourselves.

[nhslocal]

@LEK2129 Smear tests aren’t offered to under 25s because many changes in the cervix of a younger woman are normal. Changes a smear test picks up are often reversible and do not lead to cancer. Smears tests at younger ages could therefore lead to unnecessary treatment and side effects. The aim is to find a balance which minimises anxiety whilst ensuring changes which could progress into cancer are not missed.