Written question asked by Vincent Cable (Liberal Democrat) on Thursday, 18 July 2002, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 19 September 2002. It was answered by Hazel Blears (Labour) on Thursday, 19 September 2002 on behalf of the Department of Health.

Dept of Health

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Health, what proportion of smear tests in England and Wales resulted in women being recalled as a result of inadequate smears in (a) 2001-02 and (b) 2002; and if he will make a statement. - Inc figures (Holding answer 23 July 2002).

Answer: Dr. Cable: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what proportion of smear tests in England and Wales resulted in women being recalled as a result of inadequate smears in (a) 2001-02 and (b) 2002; and if he will make a statement. [72500] Ms. Blears: [holding answer 23 July 2002]: Three and a half million women aged 20-64 were tested for cervical cancer in 2000-01. 9.7 per cent. of smears were inadequate. Approximately 6.3 per cent. of women were recalled as a result of a previous inadequate smear. Inadequate smears are tests that are not suitable for reporting for clinical or technical reasons. A proportion of inadequate smears is therefore unavoidable.

Secondary information