Screening is a way of finding diseases and problems at an earlier stage in apparently healthy people, when treatment will be more successful.
The following screening services are offered as part of the NHS.
Abdominal aortic aneurysm screening
Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) screening is a way of detecting a dangerous swelling (aneurysm) of the aorta – the main blood vessel that runs from the heart, down through the abdomen to the rest of the body. This swelling is far more common in men aged over 65 than it is in women and younger men, so all men are invited for screening in the year they turn 65.
An AAA usually causes no symptoms, but if it bursts, it’s extremely dangerous and usually fatal. Around 8 out of 10 people with a ruptured AAA either die before they reach hospital or don’t survive surgery.
Screening involves a simple ultrasound scan of your stomach (abdomen), which takes about 10-15 minutes.
If you have been invited and lost the details, you can call 0113 392 3740 or email.
Bowel cancer screening programme
Bowel cancer is the third most common cancer in the UK. Screening is offered every two years to all men and women aged 50 to 74 who are most at risk. A home testing kit that is posted out to you. Please complete and return your testing kit which could save your life as it gives us the chance to detect the disease in its early stages.
If you need to arrange for a new free screening kit you can ring the Bowel Cancer Screening Helpline on 0800 707 60 60
Breast cancer screening programme
Breast cancer screening is offered to all women aged 50 – 70 to detect early signs of breast cancer. Women aged over 70 can make their own screening appointments by contacting the Leeds breast screening service on 0113 206 3816.
Breast cancer screening uses an X-ray test called a mammogram that can spot cancers when they are too small to feel. If breast cancer is discovered in its early stages, there is a very good chance of recovery.
As your GP service we fully encourage you to attend your breast screening appointments. Your invite letter from the breast screening service will include full instructions on how to book an appointment by phone, email or online. You should telephone Leeds Breast Screening Services on 0113 206 3816
Women who notice any breast symptoms or changes should make an appointment to see a GP immediately.
Cervical cancer screening programme
Cervical screening is available to all women aged 25 to 64.
If you are registered at the practice you should automatically receive an invitation by post every three years for women aged 25 – 49 and every five years for women aged 50 – 64. You simply need to contact the practice and make an appointment to see a nurse.
It is very important that you make these appointments, as early detection and treatment of abnormal cells can prevent cervical cancer.
About eight weeks after you have had your smear you will receive a letter with your result as a matter of routine.
If any concerns have been raised in the past, you may be invited for more frequent checks.
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