Concern over smear tests in Leeds
968 women have been asked to attend for repeat smear tests by NHS Leeds after problems with the original tests came to light.
It was found that tests carried out since 1988 at Gildersome Health Centre may not have met usual standards. The national cervical screening programme started in 1988 and any smear tests performed since that date have been, or will be, reviewed. It has been confirmed that the problem does not lie with the laboratory analysis of samples which suggests that there may have been problems with the collection of samples.
Special clinics have been set up to deal with the mass recall and test results are being fast-tracked to be available within three to four weeks.
Dr Ian Cameron, director of Public Health for NHS Leeds said:- “As part of our commitment to improving cervical screening services, we consistently check the quality of cervical smear tests taken in Leeds. On this occasion a review showed that some smear tests taken at Gildersome Health Centre may not have met our usual high standards”. He added that it is only a precautionary measure that women have been recalled to ensure that the standards of care provided remain high.
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