More Tayside women are undergoing smear tests in the fight against cervical cancer.
New figures show an increase to 30,435 in the number of screenings which took place in 2018-19 compared to 27,962 in 2017-18.
Around 300 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer in Scotland each year.
The earlier a diagnosis is made, the better the long-term prognosis for the individual concerned.
Around 220,000 women are diagnosed with cell abnormalities every year in the UK following a smear test.
These can develop into squamous cell cervical cancer or adenocarcinoma, although the risks of these vary and are discussed in leaflets and with colposcopists who deliver treatment.
Scottish Conservative MP for Angus, Kirstene Hair, welcomed the increase in screening but said more information should be given to women before they make important health decisions.
She said: “It is very positive to see more tests are being carried out but it seems strange that fewer letters are being sent out to tell women about the impact of finding abnormal cells.
“Many women perhaps worry about the discomfort of the test which may delay making their appointment.
“It is so important for all women to take up this potentially lifesaving service. Experts and charities believe if more information were distributed that this could lead to increased uptake in testing.”
Some 458 abnormal cell treatments were scheduled in the NHS Tayside area last year, 48 fewer than the year before and 104 fewer than in 2016-17.
Leaflets given to at-risk patients, advising them of the benefits and risks of colposcopy, were at a four-year low in the last financial year.
The figures were obtained via a freedom of information request by the Scottish Conservatives.
A Scottish Government spokesperson said: “Since the introduction of the screening programme there has been a significant decrease in the incidence of cervical cancer in Scotland.
“Regular smear tests are vital in the fight against cervical cancer and we strongly encourage everyone who is eligible to take-up their screening invite.
“Up to £5 million of funding from the Cancer Strategy is being invested in cancer screening programmes, including cervical screening, to encourage participation.
“We are also supporting the work of charities to increase awareness and address the barriers to participation.”
