Cancer Screenings can help save lives - Rachael Musgrave

Cancer Screenings can help save lives - Rachael Musgrave

Data shows that one in two of us will develop cancer at some point in our lives but in many cases the outcomes can be significantly better with early detection, so this month I am urging everyone to take up the offer of screening when eligible.

NHS cancer screening programmes can help to diagnose cancer or risk of cancer earlier and improve the likelihood of successful treatment. In the UK, there are three national screening programmes.

• Cervical cancer screening - offered to all women aged between 25 and 64 years. It is offered every 3 years for those aged 25 – 49 and every 5 years from the ages of 50 – 64
• Breast cancer screening - available to women aged between 50 and 70 years. Women over 70 can still have breast screening every 3 years if you want to
• Bowel cancer screening – a bowel cancer screening home test kit is offered to everyone aged 60 – 74 every 2 years. The programme is expanding so that everyone over 50 will be eligible for screening over the next few years. If you’re 75 or over, you can request a kit every 2 years.

If you are eligible for any of these programmes, you will be offered it if you are registered with a GP and will receive an information leaflet about the screening test.

Like many health services, cancer screening was disrupted during the COVID-19 pandemic, but screening services are now back up and running. If you are eligible, please take up this offer and if you're concerned about a delay to your screening invite or follow up appointment, contact your GP.

Always remember these screening programmes are for people who do not have symptoms. If you have symptoms tell your doctor as soon as possible.

Alongside cancer screening, NHS Health Checks are also available for those aged between 40 to 74 to help to spot early signs of stroke, kidney disease, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, or dementia. When you are eligible, you should receive a letter from your GP surgery for a free check every five years, but you can also book a health check by calling your GP.

Screening tests can detect a problem early before you have any symptoms. Finding out about a problem early can mean that treatment is more effective. Make sure to check whether you are due a screening. If you feel you have missed one, get in touch with your GP who can arrange an appointment.

Remember if you think you have symptoms of any of these diseases, don’t wait, contact your GP.