SNP MSP Ruth Macguire announces cervical cancer diagnosis ‘My condition is serious’

Jade Goody is diagnosed with cervical cancer in 2008

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Cervical cancer is a cancer in the cervix which is the opening of the womb from the vagina. Almost all cases of cervical cancer are caused by a very common and usually harmless virus called human papillomavirus. Treatments for cervical cancer include surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy.

Scottish National Party MSP, Ruth Maguire, has revealed she has been diagnosed with stage three cervical cancer.

Maguire, who represents the Cunninghame South constituency in Holyrood, said she will be taking a medical leave of absence from public duties and frontline parliamentary work for treatment and recovery with immediate effect.

The politician stated that although her condition is serious, she remains positive as doctors believe it is treatable.

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In a statement, she said: “On Tuesday 27th April 2021 I received the difficult news that I had been diagnosed with stage three cervical cancer.

“Having now had time to process what this means for me and talk things over with my family, I feel it is only right that I share this information with my constituents.

“Although my condition is serious, doctors believe it is treatable.

“Therefore, with immediate effect, I will be taking a medical leave of absence from public duties and frontline parliamentary work for treatment and recovery.”

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According to Medical News Today, the most common early symptoms of cervical cancer includes:

  • Bleeding between periods
  • Bleeding after sexual intercourse
  • Bleeding in post-menopausal women
  • Discomfort during sexual intercourse
  • Vaginal discharge with a strong odour
  • Vaginal discharge tinged with blood
  • Pelvic pain

Who’s at risk

All women are at risk for cervical cancer. It occurs most often in women over age 30.

Long-lasting infection with certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV) is the main cause of cervical cancer.

HPV is a common virus that is passed from one person to another during sex.

At least half of sexually active people will have HPV at some point in their lives, but few women will get cervical cancer.

Screening tests and the HPV vaccine can help prevent cervical cancer.

When cervical cancer is found early, it is highly treatable and associated with long survival and good quality of life.

Maguire said that her parliamentary office in Irvine will continue to operate whilst she undergoes treatment for her cervical cancer.

The MSP added: “I am eternally grateful for the support and care of my loving family and friends and, of course, our NHS.

“For now, I will concentrate on doing everything I can to get well and strong again and I thank everyone for their understanding.”
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