16/12/2025
Recently, His Majesty King Charles III spoke openly about his own cancer treatment and urged people to take up cancer screening when invited, describing early diagnosis as “the precious gift of hope”.
Cancer screening saves lives because it helps find problems early, often before symptoms appear and when treatment is most effective. Many people delay or ignore screening invitations because they feel well or worry about what tests might involve, but most people who attend screening are reassured and told everything is normal.
We strongly support the King’s message and encourage eligible patients at Alvanley Family Practice to take up NHS cancer screening when invited.
There are three main NHS cancer screening programmes:
Bowel screening, which you’ll be invited to by the NHS and can usually complete at home. Breast screening, which you’ll also be invited to by the NHS. Cervical (smear) screening, which is done at your GP practice.
We know many people are overdue for cervical screening, often because it is difficult to find a convenient appointment or because of understandable worries about the test. We currently have additional smear appointments available, and our team is happy to help you book at a time that works for you.
You can see which screenings are you are eligible for here: https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/spot-cancer-early/screening -is-cancer-screening
It’s also important to contact us if you notice symptoms that are new, persistent, or don’t feel right for you. Common warning signs can include a new lump or swelling, unexplained weight loss, unusual bleeding, persistent pain, extreme tiredness, or changes in how often you pass urine.
In most cases, these symptoms are not cancer and can be explained by other, much more common conditions. Getting in touch early usually leads to reassurance, and if tests are needed, it means things can be checked promptly.
If you are overdue for a smear test, or have symptoms you’re concerned about, please contact the practice. We’re here to make access as straightforward as possible and to support you through the next steps.
