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Comedian and actress Diona Doherty has openly reflected on her feelings of “guilt” and “stupidity” after neglecting to have a smear test for 12 years. The 36-year-old mother of two recently uncovered severe pre-cancerous cell changes during her first test in over a decade, a discovery that led to part of her cervix being surgically removed. She shared the details of her health journey on a podcast earlier this week, emphasizing the importance of regular screening and encouraging others to prioritize their own health care.
Diona recounted how she only felt compelled to book a smear test last year, realizing she had only ever had one when she was 25. Despite experiencing no symptoms, she described having a persistent “niggling” feeling to get checked. When her GP later informed her there was a “moderate level of pre-cancerous cells,” Diona said she broke down in tears, moved by the implications for her and her young children. Her sense of guilt intensified as she acknowledged the long delay in seeking medical advice. Subsequent testing at Daisy Hill Hospital revealed a more advanced stage of pre-cancerous cells, leading to immediate laser therapy to remove the affected tissue.
During the treatment, Diona’s doctor expressed astonishment that she had avoided screening for so many years and praised her decision to act on instinct by booking the appointment. She reflected on the experience in an interview on the Girls Groupchat podcast, admitting, “Like I’m a mum, how stupid am I not to take my own health into my own hands instead of just being stupid about it. I’m just so glad I did.” Diona has since been reassured by her medical team that no further treatment is required at present, though she will return for another smear test in six months. She urged women to overcome hesitation and book their smear tests without delay.
Balancing a busy career, including work on the Girls Groupchat podcast and appearances on various television programs such as The Blame Game, Blue Lights, and Derry Girls, Diona acknowledged how “work commitments” contributed to her postponement. She stressed the need for employers and workplaces to be more accommodating in allowing time off for essential health appointments, stating, “There needs to be much more leniency with employers and in workplaces to allow women and men to be able to leave the workplace and go to these appointments that are life-saving.” She warned against delaying testing over minor plans or events, highlighting the regret she now feels after waiting so long to act.
Cervical screening aims to detect early cellular changes that could develop into cervical cancer if ignored, even though it is not a diagnostic test and typically targets people without symptoms. In December 2023, Northern Ireland introduced primary HPV cervical screening, a method that detects the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is responsible for most cervical cancers. This testing technique is considered more effective at identifying individuals at increased risk compared to previous cytology methods. Common symptoms of cervical cancer include unusual vaginal bleeding, changes in discharge, and pain during sexual intercourse or in the pelvic area, underscoring the importance of early detection through regular screening
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