Inviting women for cervical screening: what messages do leaflets convey?

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Abstract
HEALTH education leaflets sent to women invited for a smear test as part of computer-managed cervical screening schemes were assessed for content and readability. More than two-thirds of the leaflets included information on the purpose of the test, recall interval, the location of the cervix, how to obtain results and possible reasons for being called back. One-third or less discussed the eligibility of certain groups, the possibility of pain, discomfort or embarrassment, or the importance of notifying GPs of recent tests. Fifteen per cent were 'fairly difficult' or 'difficult' to read. Continuing attention needs to be paid to the content and style of leaflets if women's concerns are to be adequately addressed.