The tragic death of reality television star Jade Goody has led to an unprecedented demand for cervical smear tests in the west of Scotland.
NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde revealed on Wednesday a 23 per cent increase in demand last year for the test.
Ms Goody died in March 2009 from cervical cancer. The mother-of-two was only 27 years old.
Dr Emilia Crighton, Consultant in Public Health Medicine at the health board, said: "What we have seen is an unprecedented demand in uptake of smear tests as a result of the media interest in Jade Goody's illness and death from cervical cancer.
"However we are not complacent, there are still many women who do not take up their invites and I would urge every woman offered the test to make an appointment for their cervical smear test.
"There appeared to be a lack of knowledge about cervical cancer and the purpose of cervical smears until Jade's personal story was publicised. Jade's story showed women that there remains the possibility of developing cervical cancer while comparatively young."
Jade became a household name in 2002 following the blonde’s appearance on Big Brother. At first, she became a figure of ridicule due to her apparent lack of general knowledge. However, many in the UK grew to love her and she subsequently made millions from her celebrity status.
On Wednesday, the health board said 21,674 more woman went for the test in 2009 in comparison with the previous year. Cervical cancer is caused by a common virus called HPV. Most girls and women will acquire it at some point in their lives without displaying any symptoms.
However, the virus can cause changes which in time can develop into cancer. Dr Crighton added: "Regular smear tests can prevent cervical cancer by picking up on changes in cells of the womb that in time can develop into cancer and this is why I urge all women to take respond to appointments for tests.
"Prompt treatment can result in permanent removal of affected areas of the cervix and prevent the development of cancer."
Women aged between 20 and 60 years old in the Greater Glasgow and Clyde area are invited to have a smear test taken every three years.
