The Importance of Cancer Screening
At Oasis PCN, we are passionate about promoting early detection of cancer through participation in national screening programmes. Early identification of cancer significantly improves treatment options and increases the likelihood of long-term success.
We also encourage anyone with concerning symptoms to seek medical attention promptly. Early referral can make all the difference.
Breast Screening
Who is eligible?
Women aged 50-70 are invited for a mammogram every 3 years.
Women over 70 can request a test every three years by calling their GP surgery.
What to expect:
A mammogram is performed in a mobile screening unit.
Results are sent to you by letter.
Why it matters:
Breast screening can detect cancer early, often before symptoms appear. Early detection saves lives.
Learn more:
Visit the Cancer Research UK website for detailed information.
The NHS website also has a helpful page on breast cancer screening.
Cervical Screening
Who is eligible?
Women aged 25-49 are invited every 3 years.
Women aged 50-64 are invited every 5 years.
What to expect:
You’ll receive an invitation by post.
The test (a smear test) is performed at your GP surgery.
Results are sent to you by letter, usually within 1-2 weeks.
What is cervical screening?
Cervical screening is not a test for cancer. It’s a way to prevent cancer by detecting and treating early abnormalities in the cervix (the neck of the womb).
Is it uncomfortable?
Most women find the procedure only mildly uncomfortable. A doctor or nurse will use a speculum to open the vagina and gently sweep the cervix with a spatula to collect cell samples.
Learn more:
Visit the Cancer Research UK website for detailed information.
The NHS website also has a helpful page on cervical screening, including a video demonstrating the procedure.
For additional support, visit Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust.
Information in other languages:
French
Gujarati
Polish
Punjabi
Urdu
Bowel Cancer Screening
Who is eligible?
Men and women aged 60-74 are invited every 2 years.
Those aged 75 and over can request a kit by calling 0800 707 6060.
What to expect:
A test kit will be sent to your home by post.
You can complete the test in private and return it by post.
Results are sent to you by letter within 2 weeks.
Why it matters:
Bowel cancer screening detects tiny amounts of blood in your stool, which could indicate early signs of cancer. Early detection means more effective treatment.
Is it unpleasant?
While the idea of the test might feel a little uncomfortable, it only takes a few minutes and could save your life.
Learn more:
Visit the Cancer Research UK website for detailed information, including a video on how to complete the test.
The NHS website also has a helpful page on bowel cancer screening.
For additional support, visit Bowel Cancer UK.
Prostate Cancer Screening
What you need to know:
Prostate cancer screening is not part of a national programme, but it’s important to be aware of your risk.
Free Risk Check:
Visit the Prostate Cancer UK website for a free risk check assessment.
Learn more:
For detailed information about prostate cancer screening, visit Prostate Cancer UK.
Your Health, Your Priority
At Oasis PCN, we’re here to support you in taking control of your health. Participating in cancer screening programmes is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself and your loved ones.
If you have any questions or concerns about cancer screening, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team.
Book an appointment today to discuss your screening options.