Hair Salons Join the Fight Against Cervical Cancer
In a unique effort to boost cervical cancer screening rates, hair and beauty salons across Humber and North yorkshire are joining the fight. A new initiative offers free training to salon staff, empowering them to encourage clients to get screened and educate them about the disease. The program, spearheaded by the Humber and North Yorkshire Cancer Alliance, targets areas with lower-than-average screening rates. The stark statistics surrounding cervical cancer highlight the importance of these efforts. According to the Cancer Alliance, the disease claims two lives each day in England, despite the fact that 99.8% of cases are preventable. The training equips salon staff with the knowledge and confidence to have sensitive conversations with their clients about cervical cancer. They learn about symptoms, the importance of regular screenings, and how the smear test works. Salons in areas with the lowest screening rates – Goole, Grimsby, Hull, Scarborough, and Scunthorpe – also receive posters and stickers to further raise awareness. Juliet McNab, owner of York House Beauty Clinic in Scarborough, welcomes the chance to participate. Having personally battled cancer,along with several members of her team,Mc Nab emphasizes the importance of open dialog about the disease. “We believe very strongly in the power of conversations about cancer already, so when the Cancer Alliance got in touch about their training, we jumped at the chance,” she said. The Cancer Alliance stresses the simplicity and importance of cervical cancer screening. “The screening takes just 10 minutes,” they explain. “It checks for a virus called high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV), which causes nearly all cervical cancers.” Early detection is key, as any abnormal cells can be treated before developing into cancer. Dr.Tami Byass, a GP at Eastgate medical Group in Hornsea, urges everyone to attend their screenings. “It is indeed crucial to attend screenings and see a doctor straight away if patients have ‘concerning symptoms’,” she advises. Dr. byass outlines some common symptoms to watch for: “Some of the main symptoms to be aware of are vaginal bleeding that is unusual for you, including bleeding during or after sex, between your periods or after the menopause, or heavier periods than usual; pain during sex; and changes to your vaginal discharge.” For more information on cervical cancer and local screening resources, visit [link to relevant website].Yon.
## Archyde News – Interview
**Interviewer:** We’re here today with [Alex Reed Name], a participating hairdresser in the innovative new initiative bringing cervical cancer screening right to salons across Humber and North Yorkshire. [Alex Reed Name], thank you for joining us.
**Alex Reed:** ItS a pleasure to be here and talk about this significant project.
**interviewer:** Absolutely. So,tell us more about this initiative and how it aims to make a difference in the fight against cervical cancer.
**Alex Reed:** As you know,cervical cancer screening rates aren’t where they need to be. Many women delay or avoid screenings due to various reasons. this program addresses that by bringing information and awareness directly to them – in a comfortable environment they already visit regularly: the hair salon. [[1](https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-humber-65930445)]
**Interviewer:** That’s a fantastic idea.Can you talk us through the training you received as part of this program?
**Alex Reed:** The training was comprehensive, equipping us with the knowledge about cervical cancer, its risk factors, and the importance of screening. We learned how to have sensitive and supportive conversations with clients, answering their questions openly and honestly. We’re not medical professionals, but we can be that initial point of contact, encouraging women to prioritize their health and access the screening they need.
**Interviewer:** Absolutely. Many women might feel uncomfortable discussing such a personal topic. How do you approach these conversations with clients?
**Alex Reed:** It’s all about building trust and creating a safe space. We start by simply voicing our support for the initiative and mentioning the importance of cervical health. We emphasize that it’s a common and easily treatable condition when caught early, and we’re there to provide information and answer any questions they might have. We never pressure anyone, but offer helpful resources and encourage them to talk to their GP.
**Interviewer:** That’s a thoughtful and encouraging approach. What kind of response have you seen from clients?
**Alex Reed:** It’s been overwhelmingly positive. Many women appreciate the discreet and non-judgmental environment. They feel more comfortable asking questions and discussing their concerns. Some have even confided in me about past experiences and fears related to screening.
**Interviewer:** That’s truly impactful.This program seems like a powerful way to remove barriers and encourage women to prioritize their health. Do you have any final thoughts you’d like to share with our viewers?
**Alex Reed:** Absolutely. Cervical cancer is preventable. Taking that simple screening test can be lifesaving. We urge all women to prioritize their health and contact their GP for more information. And remember, your hairdresser is here to support you. [[1](https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-humber-65930445)]
**Interviewer:** Thank you so much for sharing your insights and valuable work,[Alex Reed Name].We wish this initiative all the best in its journey to improve cervical cancer screening rates in the region.
