There are fears changes to the cervical screening programme may lead to the death of more women.

Currently the cervical smear test is done every three years for women aged 20 to 70.

The Government has decided to narrow the age of women undergoing that test to 25 to 69 years old and the time between tests will be increased to five years.

Leading cancer specialist Otago University's Associate professor Brian Cox said it may lead to 30 more women developing cancer each year and 12 more may die from it.

He said the Government decision is hasty and based on incorrect information.