Breast cancer screening
A mammogram is offered to women aged 50 – 70 to detect early signs of breast cancer. Women aged over 70 can self-refer to the local breast screening department at the Countess of Chester.
Follow this link for more info: http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/breast-cancer-screening/Pages/Introduction.aspx
Cervical cancer screening
Cervical screening is offered to women aged 25 to 64 to check the health of cells in the cervix. It is offered every three years for those aged 26 to 49, and every five years from the ages of 50 to 64.
The test (previously known as a smear test) is not a test for cancer, but it is a test to check the health of the cervix. Most women’s test results show that everything is normal. But for one in 20 women, the test will show some changes in the cells of the cervix.
Most of these changes will not lead to cervical cancer and the cells will go back to normal on their own. In some cases, the abnormal cells need to be treated to prevent them becoming a problem later.
Follow this link for more info: http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Cervical-screening-test/Pages/Introduction.aspx
Bowel cancer screening
A home-testing kit is offered to men and women aged 60 – 74 to detect any tiny amounts of blood in faeces from a possible early bowel cancer.
Follow this link for more info: http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/bowel-cancer-screening/Pages/what-happens.aspx
- Everyone aged 60 to 74 years who is registered with a GP and lives in England is automatically sent an NHS bowel cancer screening kit every 2 years.
- The programme is expanding so that everyone aged 50 to 59 years will be eligible for screening.
- This is happening gradually over 4 years and started in April 2021 with 56 year olds.
- The programme has also started to include 58 year olds, so you may get a test before you’re 60.
- Make sure your GP practice has your correct address so your kit is posted to the right place.
- If you’re 75 or over, you can ask for a kit every 2 years by phoning the free bowel cancer screening helpline on 0800 707 60 60.
If you’re worried about a family history of bowel cancer or have any symptoms, speak to a GP for advice.
Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening
An abdominal aortic aneurysm is a dangerous swelling of your largest blood vessel, the aorta. A screening ultrasound scan is offered to all men in their 65th year. Men over 65 can self-refer. The aim is to detect a possible aneurysm before it causes a problem, and either to monitor it closely, or to consider surgical treatment.
Follow this link for more info: http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/abdominal-aortic-aneurysm-screening/Pages/Introduction.aspx