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What the Renewed Women’s Health Strategy Means for Women with Lynch Syndrome

Five women together smiling to the camera.

The UK Government commits to tackling inequalities and improving women’s access to care across England


Women’s health is set to move higher up the national agenda, as the UK Government announces that the Women’s Health Strategy for England will be renewed in 2026. The updated strategy will aim to remove longstanding barriers to care, improve access to diagnosis and treatment, and ensure that women’s experiences shape the future of NHS services.


For women living with Lynch syndrome, who face an increased lifetime risk of developing endometrial and ovarian cancers, this renewed focus on women’s health could have an important impact — particularly in improving earlier detection, faster referrals, and access to preventative care.


A system that listens and acts


The Department of Health and Social Care and Health Secretary Wes Streeting MP said the government is determined to “build an NHS fit for the future” — one that listens to women’s experiences and tackles inequalities they face.


The renewed Women’s Health Strategy will be part of the wider 10-Year Health Plan, incorporating findings from the largest public consultation ever held on the future of the NHS.


Streeting highlighted the need to address long waits for gynaecology services, the lack of appropriate pain relief during procedures, and the tendency for women’s symptoms to be overlooked or dismissed.


“Too many women are still subject to a system that doesn’t listen to their experiences or understand their needs,” he said. “Our renewed strategy will ensure every woman gets the healthcare she deserves, when she needs it.”

Key measures already underway


The government has already begun implementing measures to improve women’s health outcomes, including:

  • Falling gynaecology waiting lists, supported by targeted NHS funding.

  • “Jess’s Rule” – ensuring GPs “think again” if a woman presents three times without a diagnosis, or if her symptoms worsen.

  • Plans to eliminate cervical cancer by 2040, through improved HPV vaccination and screening.

  • Free emergency hormonal contraception to be available from NHS pharmacies.

  • Menopause questions to be added to the NHS Health Check, supporting earlier recognition and care.


Why this matters for women with Lynch syndrome


Women with Lynch syndrome face unique healthcare needs. Many are under enhanced surveillance for endometrial and ovarian cancers and rely on timely access to specialist gynaecology, genetics and oncology services.


Long waiting lists or delays in referral can make that surveillance more stressful — and sometimes more risky. The renewed Women’s Health Strategy offers a critical opportunity to ensure these women’s voices are heard within national health planning, and that genetic risk management is better integrated into routine NHS pathways.


Lynch Syndrome UK will continue to advocate for:

  • Faster access to risk-reducing surgery and gynaecological consultations.

  • Clearer referral pathways between genetics, oncology and gynaecology.

  • Better information and emotional support for women navigating difficult reproductive and risk-management choices.

  • The same commitment to women's health in the devolved nations.


Looking ahead


The refreshed Women’s Health Strategy, expected in 2026, will set out specific actions to address barriers to care and improve access for women across England. As the government shapes the next phase, patient input will remain vital — especially from communities such as ours, where inherited cancer risk and gender-based health inequalities intersect.


Lynch Syndrome UK will monitor developments closely and continue to represent the needs and voices of women with Lynch syndrome in national conversations about women’s health.


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