Understanding which cancer screenings you qualify for through the NHS can be a crucial step in taking proactive control of your health. National screening programmes are designed to diagnose cancer or identify risk factors at an earlier stage, significantly improving the likelihood of successful treatment outcomes.
Navigating NHS Cancer Screening Programmes
Eligibility for these vital health checks varies considerably depending on your age, location, and individual risk factors. From routine mammograms to at-home faecal immunochemical tests (FIT), the NHS offers structured programmes targeting specific cancers. Ahead of World Cancer Day on February 4, insights from Dr Rachel Orritt, health information manager at Cancer Research UK, help clarify the aims and practical details of each screening initiative.
Breast Screening: Mammograms and Risk Assessment
"Breast screening helps to find cancer at an early stage, which is when treatment is more likely to be successful," explains Dr Orritt. "It involves a mammogram of your breast or chest that looks for breast cancer, essentially when it's too small to see or feel."
In most cases, individuals receive invitations every three years between the ages of 50 and 70. However, those with higher risk profiles may qualify for earlier screening.
"You can have screening at a younger age if your risk is higher, for example if you have a family history of breast cancer, or if you have a gene fault that puts you at a higher risk such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutation," Dr Orritt clarifies. "If you are concerned, talk to your GP and they'll be able to help you understand your particular risk."
The procedure involves taking two X-ray images of each breast from different angles. These images are then reviewed for any changes that might necessitate further tests, with results communicated after the appointment.
Cervical Screening: HPV Testing and Regional Variations
"Anyone who has a cervix will be invited for a cervical screening every five years between the ages of 25 and 64 in Wales, Scotland and England," states Dr Orritt.
Northern Ireland operates a slightly different schedule, with invitations every three years from ages 25 to 49, then every five years until age 64. Dr Orritt acknowledges that some people experience anxiety about this screening and recommends discussing any concerns with a GP or nurse beforehand.
The test involves a nurse using a small, soft brush to collect a cell sample from the cervix, which is then tested for human papillomavirus (HPV).
"The reason that it looks for HPV is because high-risk HPV causes almost all cases of cervical cancer. So, by focusing the test on HPV we can pick up people who might be at risk of developing the disease," she explains.
Results and subsequent steps are communicated via letter or through the NHS app, with the primary aim being prevention of cervical cancer development.
Bowel Screening: Home Testing Kits and Age Eligibility
The NHS bowel screening programme utilises the faecal immunochemical test (FIT) to detect blood in stool samples.
"Bowel screening is offered to people between the ages of 50 and 74 in the UK, however in Northern Ireland it's offered to people aged 60 to 74," says Dr Orritt. "People within these age ranges will automatically receive a FIT kit in the post every two years."
Those aged 75 or over can request the test every two years by contacting the bowel cancer screening helpline. The programme aims to detect cancer early and identify bowel changes that could lead to cancer.
"Eligible people are sent a poo testing kit that can be done in the privacy of your own home and then is returned safely in the post," she describes. "That sample is then tested to spot any possible tiny traces of blood in your poo which could be a sign of bowel cancer."
Lung Screening: Targeted Programme for Smokers
"The lung screening is for people aged between 55 and 74 who either currently smoke or have smoked in the past," outlines Dr Orritt.
Currently available only in England, with Wales planning to introduce it, this programme helps detect lung cancer at an early, more treatable stage. As a relatively new initiative, it may take time to become universally accessible.
"When it's up and running, anyone between the ages of 55 and 74 who smokes or used to smoke will be invited to take part," she says. "They will be first invited for a risk assessment and, based on those results, some people will then also be invited to have a CT scan of the lungs if they're deemed to be a higher risk of lung cancer."
Ensuring You Receive Screening Invitations
"To make sure that you get your cancer screening invites, make sure you're registered with a GP and your address information is all up to date," advises Dr Orritt.
While most invitations arrive by post, the NHS app is increasingly being used for notifications, with a gradual shift toward digital invites expected in coming years. If you believe you're eligible but haven't received an invitation, contacting your GP is recommended as address discrepancies or other administrative issues may be the cause.
Important Distinction: Screening Versus Symptomatic Concerns
Dr Orritt emphasises a crucial distinction: "One of the main things that I think is really important to get across when we're talking about cancer screening, is that these programmes are for people without any symptoms."
"If you have symptoms or are worried about something, you don't need to wait for a screening invitation. Talk to your GP about any concerns straight away." This proactive approach ensures that symptomatic individuals receive appropriate medical attention without delay.
