Since the mid-1980s, women have become more aware of the importance of cervical smear tests.

But this achievement has been undermined by questions about the effectiveness of the screening programme.

Today's report should end those doubts. It found that screening has reduced deaths from cervical cancer by more than 60 per cent among women under 55. In 1997 alone it saved 1,300 lives.

Cervical screening is an example of the National Health Service at its best.

It saves lives, prevents incalculable heartache and, not incidentally, is a very cost-efficient example of preventative medicine.

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