Taking up your free NHS screening tests can make a big difference to your health. Early diagnosis, saves lives.
Early cancer screening helps find changes in the body before symptoms appear, making treatment more effective.Greater Manchester has some of the best cancer services, but we can do better by encouraging everyone to attend their screening appointments.
What is Cancer Screening?
Screening looks for early changes in the body before symptoms can be seen or felt. Examples include:
- Changes to cells around the cervix that can be seen under a microscope.
- Tiny lumps in the breast, detectable through a mammogram.
- Traces of blood in the bowel, too small to see, that could indicate a tumour.
Cervical Screening (Smear Test)
Women and people with a cervix aged 25-64, registered as female, will be invited for a cervical smear test at their GP surgery:
- Ages 25-49: Every 3 years.
- Ages 50-64: Every 5 years.
Your invitation may arrive sooner if a repeat test is needed. Tests are carried out by trained female nurses who can offer support and reassurance. Appointments are available throughout the week, including early mornings, evenings, and Saturdays at extended access hubs. Please note, a smear test cannot be done while on your period.
Special Support
If you need any extra help, like a support person during the test or an adjustable couch, let the receptionist know when you book. Our nurses understand that some people may need more time, have past trauma, or have cultural concerns. Trans and non-binary people with a cervix can also get this test, though they may need to ask for an invitation.
Want more information?
- Listen to Dame Sarah Storey explain why having your smear test is so important.
- Watch a short video about HPV.
- Read this article on HPV and how to protect yourself against it.
- Read our easy-read leaflet about cervical screening.
Results
You’ll receive your results in the post a few weeks after your test.
Did you know? Regular screening can prevent 83% of cervical cancer cases.
Anyone registered with a GP as female and aged 50-71 will be invited every 3 years for a mammogram. If you missed your last appointment, contact the Nightingale Centre on 0161 291 4444 to check if you are due. If you are over 71 and would like a mammogram, you can also contact this number.
Support for Trans and Non-Binary People
Trans and non-binary people with breast tissue (who have not had top surgery) can still be screened. Long-term hormone treatment can increase the risk of breast cancer, making screening especially important. If you haven’t received an invitation, call the Nightingale Centre on 0161 291 4444.
Learn more about breast screening for trans and non-binary people.
Results
You will receive your mammogram results by post within a few weeks.
Did you know? Breast screening saves about 1 life for every 200 people screened. Watch a video on checking your breasts.
Men and women aged 54 (born after 07 April 2023) up to 74 will receive a bowel cancer screening kit every 2 years. This test can be done at home following the instructions included with the kit. Simply send your sample back in the post, and you’ll receive your results in a few weeks.
If you’ve lost your kit, want to request another, or are over 74 and wish to continue screening, call the Bowel Cancer Screening Helpline on 0800 707 60 60.
Did you know? Completing your screening test reduces the risk of dying from bowel cancer by 25%. Watch a video explaining the test.
You may also be invited for NHS screening services as part of your registration, but some services not provided by the GP may require payment.
Early Diagnosis Saves Lives
Your GP strongly encourages you, your family, and your friends to attend screening appointments when invited. By doing so, you can help reduce the risk of cancer for yourself and your loved ones.
For more information on any of the screenings, or to access easy-read leaflets and support, please visit our website or contact your GP practice.
