Study reveals inequalities in uptake of those taking cervical cancer screenings

A new study has revealed inequalities in the uptake of those going forward for cervical cancer screening.

The working paper published by economists based at NUI Galway, compared the numbers of people and their background presenting for screening in Ireland, Northern Ireland, England and the US.

It found that while cervical cancer is known to be more prevalent among those from lower socio-economic groups, uptake of screening in Ireland, England and the US is highest among those from well-off background's.

However by contrast in Northern Ireland, the less well-off were more likely to avail of screening.

Brendan Walsh, Economist with NUI Galway has been looking at the findings.

"We found a greater pro-rich inequality in the US than in the other countries," he said.

"It's important for cervical cancer in particular that we investigate issues like this because cervical cancer has a pro-poor incidence

"Those in the more deprived groups have incidences twice as high as those in the least deprived groups."