Cancer Information
Cancer Symptoms and Screening
We would like to reassure you that the NHS is open for you during the coronavirus pandemic, so if you are worried about any unusual symptoms you may be experiencing that could be cancer, please contact your doctor.
You may be offered a telephone or video consultation instead of a face-to-face one, and you will only be asked to come to your GP practice or go to a hospital if it is safe to do so. Chances are it is nothing serious, but finding cancer early makes it more treatable.
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Cervical screenings
Cervical screenings are still taking place during this time, and we would like to provide reassurance that your local GP practice will be taking additional steps to keep you safe while you get your cervical screening test. Your nurse will be wearing protective clothing, such as disposable gloves, a mask and an apron.
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Cancer screening for people with learning disabilities
A wonderful video on cancer screenings for people with learning disabilities has been produced which focuses on breast, bowel, and cervical cancers.
It is aimed at patients, family carers and services which support people with learning disabilities. The film shows people what cancer is, how screening helps people to get an earlier diagnosis, and how treatment and can save lives.
Suspected cancer referrals: patient information leaflets
Non Site Specific Service
The Non Site Specific (NSS) Service is for people who have symptoms that are worrying and could be a cancer but are not typical of a specific cancer type. Some forms of cancer show very specific symptoms and it is clear when to refer to specific teams such as the head and neck team or breast cancer team. However, sometime things like weight loss or fatigue and vomiting cannot always be explained, especially if they are lasting for a few months.
For the person referred to NSS service we will ask your GP to do a number of tests, before your telephone appointment with the team e.g., blood tests, FIT test, x-ray. At the telephone or video appointment we will take a full history of your symptoms before booking you in for further tests e.g., CT scan, endoscopy.
This short video provides the background to non site specific services and how the NHS is moving towards rapid diagnosis for cancer referrals.
Having tests and investigations at the hospital often make people feel quite nervous and not knowing what to expect can add to the worry.
We are creating a series of videos to demonstrate certain tests and scans, to give you a picture of what will happen, with the aim of reducing some of that worry.