In this section
Screening
Detecting cancer early increases the chances of receiving successful treatment. Advances in treatment and care means a lot more can be done to tackle cancer.
Fear of what the doctor might find or feeling embarrassment about symptoms causes some people to put off getting checked.
Having regular screening is important as it can pick up abnormal changes early and can prevent a cancer occurring or detect a cancer before it has spread. The earlier a cancer is detected, the quicker you can be diagnosed and treated.
It is important that if you are invited for screening that you attend your appointment, or for bowel screening carry out the test at home.
Screening is not the same as the tests a person may have when doctors are diagnosing or treating cancer.
Cancer screening was disrupted during the COVID-19 pandemic, but screening services are back up and running. If you're concerned about a delay to your screening invite or follow up appointment, contact your GP.
There are three main types of cancer screening available:
- Cervical screening,
- Breast screening and
- Bowel screening.
If you are anxious about having your screening, unsure what it involves or embarrassed, please contact your GP surgery and ask to speak to the screening nurse. The team will be more than happy to help.
