Cancer Screening

• People aged 50 to 74 years old who are registered with a GP are automatically sent a bowel cancer screening kit, otherwise known as a FIT kit every two years.

• If you’re 75 or over, you can request a kit by calling 0800 707 6060

• For more information about receiving a bowel cancer screening home test visit the NHS bowel cancer screening page.

Most people who take the test will not need further investigations. Around 97 to 98 out of 100 people will receive a normal result, while 2 – 3 out of 100 may be invited for follow up tests at hospital.  

The screening for bowel cancer is done at home via a test otherwise known as a faecal immunochemical test (FIT). FIT is quick and discreet.

1. The NHS sends the FIT kit directly to your address as long as you are registered with a GP and eligible.

2. You use the kit to collect one small sample of poo using the stick provided.

3. You then place the sample in the bottle provided, seal it and return it in the prepaid envelope also contained in the kit.

It only takes a few minutes, and the instructions included make it simple to complete. Even if you have no symptoms, the test can pick up early changes. The short video below provides further details and instruction if you are still unsure of how to carry out the test.

Screening is important, but you should also speak to your GP if you notice any of the following:

• Blood in your poo

• A change in your bowel habits

• Unexplained weight loss

• Persistent tiredness

• Pain or a lump in your tummy

These symptoms don’t always mean cancer, but it is important to get them checked.

Learn more information about the symptoms of bowel cancer

In England, everyone with a cervix aged 25 to 64 is invited for screening.

• You’ll be invited every 5 years from when you are 25 to 64 years old. You’ll receive your first invitation a few months before you turn 25.

• You may be invited more regularly if you have HPV.

If you have had a total hysterectomy (removal of womb and cervix), you don’t need screening.

If you are a trans man or non-binary person with a cervix, you are still eligible – speak to your GP if you do not receive letters automatically.

Cervical screening appointments typically take around 10 minutes.

The test is quick and is usually done at your GP surgery. A nurse uses a small, soft brush to collect cells from your cervix, it only takes a few minutes.

It is normal to feel anxious about cervical screening and there are things you can do to make the appointment feel more manageable.

• The NHS has guidance for people who feel anxious about attending their cervical screening appointment

• The Eve Appeal charity has released some tips for making your cervical screening appointment more comfortable

You can also get in touch with your GP practise in advance to talk through any concerns or ask about adjustments.

This video explains the process of the test in more detail:

 

The nurse or doctor will tell you when you can expect your cervical screening results. If you have waited longer than expected, call your GP surgery to see if they have any updates.

Your cervical screening results will explain if HPV was found in your sample, what your results mean and what happens next. Find out more about understanding you results on the NHS website: NHS cervical screening - your results

You’ll be sent an invitation through the NHS App, by text or by letter when it is time to book your cervical screening appointment.

Your invitation will tell you where you can go for cervical screening and how to book. Evening and weekend slots are available.

It’s not too late to book your cervical screening appointment, even if you were invited weeks, months or years ago.

In Suffolk, the Very Important Invitation Project works to make cervical screening more accessible for everyone. It focuses on supporting people who might find it harder to attend. This could be for many reasons and may include:

• A mental health condition

• Previous cervical screening experience(s)

• Previous traumatic experience(s)

• Sexual and/or domestic violence

The project offers tailored advice, extra support, and community outreach to help you feel comfortable and informed. The service offers evening and weekend appointments in Bury St Edmunds, Felixstowe, Hadleigh, Ipswich, Stowmarket and Wickham Market. Find out more here: Suffolk GP Federation - Cervical Screening