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Cancer screening is the term for a range of different tests used to detect cancer, even if the patient isn’t showing any symptoms. By screening early, there’s a better chance of identifying cancer. Which means it’s usually easier to treat and helps save lives.
Screening is offered for a range of different types of cancer, including breast cancer, cervical cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer, and bowel cancer.
Detecting cancer as early as possible often provides the best chance to treat it. Cancer screening is the term for a range of different tests and scans, all designed to get the most information about your body, and any potential cancer.
For most cancers, screening tests can save lives by diagnosing cancer early. For other cancers, screening tests are recommended only for people with increased risks, such as smokers and lung cancer.
Our consultants use cancer screening tests for a variety of reasons, even on patients who aren’t showing any symptoms. From finding cancer at an early stage, when the chances of successful treatment are higher, to detect changes in the body that may develop into cancer. (For example, cervical screening can find abnormal cells on the cervix that could turn into cancer if not treated).
Cancer screening incorporates many different tests to look for signs of cancer, including patients who don’t have any symptoms. These tests can include:
Blood tests
These are designed to look for certain markers in the blood usually associated with cancer.
Imaging tests
A range of different image generating scans, including mammograms for breast cancer or low-dose X-ray CT scans for lung cancer.
Physical exams and tests
A range of tests, including physical exams such as a Pap smear for cervical cancer.
Stool analysis
Stool samples are used in bowel cancer screening to check for blood or abnormal cells.
Depending upon age and medical history, certain groups of people might need cancer screening more than others. These include:
Women aged 50 and above
Often recommended to undergo regular breast cancer screening with mammograms.
Women aged 25 to 64
This group is usually offered regular cervical screening to check for cervical cancer and human papillomavirus (HPV) infections.
Men aged 50 and above
They may be advised to have annual prostate cancer screenings.
People with a family history of cancer
If you have relatives who have had cancer, you may be at higher risk and need regular screenings.
People who are at high risk
Including smokers for lung cancer or those with certain genetic conditions.
The benefits of cancer screening include:
Early detection
Finding cancer at an early stage can make treatment more effective and less invasive.Prevention
Detecting precancerous conditions can prevent cancer from developing further.Peace of mind
Knowing your latest screening results can reduce anxiety about cancer and help you feel more in control.Improved survival rates
Early detection and treatment can significantly increase the chances of recovery.
Before a cancer screening test, you will usually receive detailed information about what the test involves from your consultant. You may be asked to discuss your medical history, especially if any family members have developed cancer. Fasting before a blood test or avoiding certain foods before a stool test are also advised.
The procedures and requirements for a cancer screening test depends on the type of test being done:
Blood test
A small sample of blood will be drawn from a vein in your arm using a needle.
Mammogram
Your breast will be placed between two plates and compressed slightly so that a series of accurate X-ray images can be taken.
A smear test
A small sample of cells will be gently scraped from your cervix.
Low-dose CT scan
You will be asked to lie on a table that slides into a CT scanner to generate detailed x-ray images of your lungs.
Stool test
You will be asked to collect a small sample of your stool at home and send it to a lab for analysis.
Blood test
A small sample of blood will be drawn from a vein in your arm using a needle.
Mammogram
Your breast will be placed between two plates and compressed slightly so that a series of accurate X-ray images can be taken.
A smear test
A small sample of cells will be gently scraped from your cervix.
Low-dose CT scan
You will be asked to lie on a table that slides into a CT scanner to generate detailed x-ray images of your lungs.
Stool test
You will be asked to collect a small sample of your stool at home and send it to a lab for analysis.
After the screening test, you will usually receive your results in a few days or discuss them with your consultant at a follow-up appointment. If the results are abnormal, you may need additional tests or a referral to another specialist.
Cancer screening tests are generally used to investigate a variety of different potential cancerous conditions.
Breast screenings use an X-ray test called a mammogram, designed to spot cancers when they’re too small to see or feel.
X-rays are also part of lung cancer detection, using low-dose CT scans on a range of patients including high-risk individuals like smokers.
Cervical cancer is detected and monitored using Pap smears and human papillomavirus (HPV) tests. Bowel cancer investigations combine stool tests and colonoscopies, with prostate cancer patients relying upon regular PSA blood tests.
Depending upon the specific tests involved, cancer screening is generally safe and non-invasive for most people. The tests that use low levels of radiation, such as CT scans and mammograms, are not advised for pregnant or breastfeeding women, but your consultant can advise and suggest alternatives.
Recovery from cancer screening is usually quick and easy, as most screening tests cause little to no discomfort.
You can usually go home and return to your normal activities straight after the test. If the tests do reveal any abnormalities, your consultant will be in touch to discuss the results and help plan further tests and potential treatments.
Interpreting cancer screening results is a complex process. Your consultant will review the outcome of your tests and discuss them with you at your next appointment. Usually, if the results are normal, this means no signs of cancer were found, but you might be advised to continue to take part in regular screenings.
Abnormal results are not always something to worry about, as they don’t necessarily mean you have cancer, just that further testing is needed to determine the cause of the abnormality.
As always, your consultant will explain the results and recommend any necessary follow-up actions.
Book online for your cancer screening today.
Abnormal results are not always something to worry about, as they don’t necessarily mean you have cancer, just that further testing is needed to determine the cause of the abnormality.
As always, your consultant will explain the results and recommend any necessary follow-up actions.
Book online for your cancer screening today.
Mayo Clinic, cancer diagnosis and treatment
NHS, cancer screening
Cancer Research UK, cancer screening
NHS, cancer screening
Cancer Research UK, cancer screening
