IT ONLY takes five minutes but it could save your life.

That’s the urgent message from the region’s health bosses to women who may be thinking of skipping their routine cervical screening tests.

Detecting the early signs of cervical cancer is vital, according to the NHS which estimates it can prevent 75 per cent of cases developing further if caught in time.

Speaking at the start of Cervical Screening Awareness Week, Dr Phil Kirby, interim director of public health for NHS North Yorkshire and York said: “Following the tragic death of Jade Goody in 2009, we saw a rise in the number of women attending for their cervical screening appointment.

“However, figures have dropped again with the most recent data showing an uptake of only 77 per cent in the 25 to 49 year age group.

“We want to remind women how crucial attending for regular screening is in detecting abnormal cells, which if left undetected may lead to cervical cancer.

“The test itself should take no longer than five minutes and it can literally save lives.”

Cervical Screening Awareness Week runs until Sunday and is led by Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust.

The charity aims to highlight the importance cervical screening plays in the prevention of cervical cancer. It also provides advice and support to women affected by the disease, and their families.

All women between the ages of 25 and 64 automatically receive an invitation for a test in the post, every three years at ages 25 to 49 and every five years at ages 50 to 64.

However, anyone who thinks they may be due for screening should contact their GP to double check when they last had one.