An extensive review of cervical screening conducted by the Southern Health Trust revealed that eight women developed cancer due to misread smear tests. Additionally, 11 others faced pre-cancerous changes. The investigation followed serious adverse incidents and has been met with calls for accountability and a public inquiry. Many women were affected by systemic failures in laboratory screening protocols from 2008 to 2021. Apologies were issued by health officials, and discussions about the introduction of improved HPV screening methods are underway to prevent future occurrences.

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