Cervical Cancer Prevention Week 2026

This Cervical Cancer Prevention Week (19 - 25 January 2026), the HSE is reminding everyone that cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers, and that the actions we take today can stop it developing in the future.

Almost all cases of cervical cancer are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). By preventing HPV, finding it, and treating abnormal cells, we can prevent cervical cancer before it develops.

In Ireland, we already have everything we need to do to make this possible:

• free HPV vaccination

• free cervical screening (CervicalCheck)

• free follow-up tests and treatment for those who need it

Together, these services are already preventing thousands of cancers - and this is how we will make cervical cancer rare in Ireland by 2040.

Know the symptoms, and act early

Screening is for people without symptoms of cervical cancer.

Everyone should still be aware of possible symptoms of cervical cancer, because not all cases of cervical cancer are caused by HPV, and screening won’t find every abnormality.

The symptoms can include:

• abnormal vaginal bleeding (between periods, after sex or after menopause)

• unusual vaginal discharge

• pelvic or lower back pain

If you notice any of these, go to your GP and get the right care for you, even if your last screening test was normal.

This information has been sourced from the HSE. For full details please follow click this LINK.