Back  |  Email to a Friend  |  Print  |   Send in Your Comment

Jade Goody boosts cancer screenings

Her tragic death may have come way too soon, but Jade Goody can rest in peace knowing that she could have prevented thousands more from her ordeal.

The brave mum, who left sons Bobby and Freddie behind, publicised her battle with cervical cancer in a bid to inspire other women to get tested, and earn money for her sons' future.

And studies say that more than half a million people have signed up for smear tests after reading about Jade, who lost her life to the illness at just 27 years old.

Mike Richards, National cancer director for the Department of Health, said: "Screening saves around 4,500 lives a year. Jade's cancer battle will help save hundreds more."

Getting regular smear tests is encouraged by the government for sexually active women, to ensure that any abnormal cells are caught before they develop into cancer.

However, only women over 25 are currently able to receive them for free, despite the legal age of consent being 16.

Do you get tested regularly? If you're under 25, would you like to be? Has Jade inspired you?