We know that the word cancer causes worry. The truth is, the earlier the symptoms of cancer are identified, and treatment is started, the better the chances of beating it. The longer you put off talking to a clinician about your symptoms, the harder it is to treat.
To help identify symptoms early, there are screening tests available, these are offered and often depend on your age.
Screening can help to detect cancer at an early stage. If cancer is picked up early, it means that treatment is more likely to be successful and more people survive.
Some screening can prevent cancer from developing in the first place. Cervical screening for example, can detect changes in the cervix which can be treated before they can cause cancer.
Available NHS cancer prevention screening programmes, the ages they start , men and/or woman , how to attend (cervical screening , breast screening – also known as mammograms, as well as bowel cancer screening ) are found below:
What is cancer screening? (Cancer research UK)
Know and listen to your body
We understand that it is difficult to know what the symptoms look or feel like. Therefore, to help, we have included the links below, which can provide you with more information about different symptoms. This is so that you know what to look for.
Spotting cancer at an early stage saves lives, so tell your doctor if you notice anything that isn’t normal for you.
You don’t need to try and remember all the signs and symptoms of cancer – listen to your body and talk to your doctor if you notice anything that isn’t normal for you.
Signs and symptoms are more often caused by something less serious than cancer – but if it is cancer, spotting it early can make a real difference.
Visual aid from Cancer Research UK on how to spot early signs of cancer and short advice see link below:
https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/cancer-symptoms
https://publications.cancerresearchuk.org/early-diagnosis
Here is the link to BANES (RUH) support resources
https://www.bems.uk.com/cancercarereviews
Information is included below, with some useful websites. You may want to forward the website link to someone you know, who may also find it helpful.
Kingswood Medical Group is also working with the Thames Valley Cancer Alliance, which is helping to fund a Cancer Care Coordinator, Gabi.
Therefore, if you are eligible for any of the screening programmes, you may also receive a phone call from Gabi, Our Care Co Ordinator, who can provide you with further information, so that you can make an informed decision and hopefully, participate in the screening.
We hope the above has been useful.
