Screening

In the UK, screening programs for bowel, breast and cervical cancers are designed to detect these cancers early, improving treatment outcomes. Here’s an overview of each screening program:

Bowel Cancer screening

  • Eligibility: Offered to individuals aged 50 to 74 (and some people over 75 on request).
  • Method: The primary screening method is the Faecal Immunochemical Test (FIT), which detects blood in the stool.
  • Frequency: Screening is done every two years. If you are registered with a GP, you’ll automatically get a bowel cancer screening home test kit (FIT kit) through the post.
  • Follow-up: If the FIT test is positive, further investigation via a colonoscopy may be required.
  • More information visit: NHS Bowel Cancer Screening and St Mark's Hospital Bowel Cancer Screening Centre

Breast Cancer screening

  • Eligibility: Offered to women aged 50 to 71. Women over 71 can still use the service however they will need to self-refer by calling The Hub.
  • Method: The screening method is a mammogram, which is an X-ray of the breast.
  • Frequency: Women are invited for screening every three years.
  • Follow-up: If abnormalities are detected, further tests, including additional imaging or biopsies may be necessary.
  • More information visit: NHS Breast Screening (mammogram) and London Breast Screening

Cervical Cancer screening

  • Eligibility: Offered to women aged 25 to 64.
  • Method: The screening involves taking a sample of cells from the cervix (smear test) to check for abnormal cells and HPV (Human Papillomavirus).
  • Frequency:
  • Ages 25-49: Every three years.
  • Ages 50-64: Every five years.
  • Follow-up: If abnormal cells or HPV are detected, further testing or treatment may be required.
  • More information visit: NHS Cervical Screening

Lung Cancer screening: Soon to be offered in Harrow

Accessing screening

How to get screened: Invitations for bowel, breast, and cervical screenings are sent automatically to eligible individuals.

Importance of screening: Regular screenings can significantly reduce the risk of dying from these cancers by enabling early detection and treatment. By participating in these screening programs, you can play a crucial role in their health management and contribute to early cancer detection.