Major income inequalities in the uptake of cervical screening have been revealed in a new study. 

A working paper published by economists at NUI Galway points to important differences in uptake of cervical cancer screening based on people's income levels.

The study compared uptake of cervical cancer 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 the Republic of Ireland, England and the US was more common among the better-off.

By contrast, in Northern Ireland, the less well-off were more likely to avail of it. This was driven by the behaviour of Catholics, where the less well-off in that community was more likely to avail of screening, while no such socio-economic inequality of uptake was evident among Protestants.

Further work by economists from NUI Galway will be presented at a symposium on the economics of cancer research to be hosted by NUI Galway on Monday September 2.

The symposium, funded as part of a Health Research Board (HRB) Knowledge Exchange and Dissemination Scheme initiative, will include presentations that explore various economic aspects of cancer care, policy formulation and research.