The prospect of developing cancer is everyone's worst nightmare
We have created this page because we have become aware that in Hillingdon, far too many cancers are diagnosed at a late stage, when the prospect of a cure is reduced.
Although treatments are getting better, Many cancers can be prevented by adopting a healthy lifestyle
Experts estimate that more than 4 in 10 cancer cases could be prevented by lifestyle changes, such as:
1. not smoking.
2. keeping a healthy bodyweight.
3. cutting back on alcohol.
4. eating a healthy, balanced diet.
5. keeping active.
6. avoiding certain infections (such as HPV)
7. enjoying the sun safely.
Also the more common cancers can be prevented by taking advantage of the NHS screening programmes when invited.
We have learnt that more people in Hillingdon are diagnosed with bowel cancer at a late stage and also the uptake of the bowel cancer screening programme (stool tests and bowel scope screening) in Hillingdon is very poor. Bowel cancer can be prevented or diagnosed at an early stage in people who participate in this screening programme when invited.
Other NHS screening programmes are:
- Cervical cancer screening (carried out at the surgery)
- Breast Cancer screening
Learn about all of these at
http://www.nhs.uk/Livewell/preventing-cancer/Pages/cancer-screening.aspx
NHS cancer screening in London