One of the ways the ways which the NHS aims to diagnose cancer earlier and therefore improve outcomes is through National Screening Programmes. This involves patients of specific ages being invited to provide samples (eg. a stool sample) or attend a test (Cervical smear or mammogram). The three Cancers which are screened for nationally are:
- Cervical Cancer (patients aged 25-64 with a cervix)
- Breast Cancer (Patients aged 50-71 who are registered as female with a GP)
- Bowel Cancer (All Patients aged 50-74)
Each of these screening programmes are coordinated outwith the practice, however, the results will be shared with your GP who will be available to go through any next steps with you.
IMPORTANT: If you feel that you are experiencing any symptoms of Cervical, Breast or Bowel cancer, please do not wait to be screened, speak to your GP as soon as possible.
Useful information
For more information on National cancer screening programmes, please see NHS England’s Screening and Earlier Diagnosis page.