Erin Harbinson has advanced-stage cervical cancer. But for her and her health, it could have been very different.

She had not one, not two, but three smear tests misread over the course of a decade - all had 'normal' results, or so she believed. 

The mother of four was diagnosed in 2021, but was only told those vital health checks were incorrect just ahead of the announcement of a review into 17,500 women’s smears in the Southern Trust just six months ago.


Doctors have told her had her cancer been caught sooner, she would not be in the position she is in today. 

Others are in the same position while some have already sadly passed away.

The Southern Health and Social Care Trust has apologised for failures in Erin's care. It said her case helped lead the establishment of reviews and urged anyone with concerns to get in touch.

It added: "For any woman who has unfortunately received a diagnosis of cervical cancer, we review all aspects of their previous smear tests as part of the audit of invasive cervical cancers to identify any learning that will help improve the screening programme.

"The Trust is working towards completing the Cervical Screening Review in the next few months. It is important to emphasise the fact that cervical screening is not a diagnostic test (rather it is for people without symptoms and aims to detect early changes which could go on to develop into cervical cancer if left untreated). Anyone with symptoms should always seek advice from their GP.

"The Southern Trust and Public Health Agency continue to urge women to continue come forward for their smear tests when invited. Almost all cervical cancers (99.7%) are caused by persistent infection with high-risk types of HPV.

"The Northern Ireland Cervical Screening Programme introduced full primary HPV testing into the cervical screening pathway in December 2023.

"The full integration of HPV testing has brought N.Ireland in line with similar programmes in the rest of the UK and Republic of Ireland, making the screening more accurate and more effective at identifying those at greatest risk.

"The screening test, often known as a ‘smear test’, checks a sample of cells from your cervix for certain types of HPV. If high-risk HPV is detected during screening, the sample will also be checked for abnormal cell changes.

"The HPV test is a better indicator than cytology of identifying which women are at risk of developing cervical cancer. The Cervical Screening Review is looking back at the old model. HPV is a common virus, and, in most cases, it will be cleared by the body’s immune system and have no adverse health impact. It is only when the virus persists, that it can cause cell changes in the cervix which, with time, can develop into cancer.

"We also urge anybody with concerns to contact our dedicated Helpline for this Cervical Review which is open Monday to Friday 10am to 4pm on 0800 9520255.

"Alternatively, you can email cervical.review@southerntrust. hscni.net or visit the Southern Trust Website at www.southerntrust.hscni.net following the link to the Cervical Screening Review Information Page."

Erin spoke to UTV's Sarah Clarke.