Cervical Smears

These important checks facilitate early detection of cancer of the cervix.

All female patients between the ages of 25 and 49 should be screened every 3 years.

All female patients between the ages of 50 and 64 should be screened every 5 years.

Younger patients may also be recommended for testing, but women aged less than 20 years do not need routine cervical screening.

Appointments can be made with any of the nurses or doctors.

Results are currently taking about 8 weeks to get back to you from the laboratory.

You will receive a letter through the post, unless you specifically request that you do not get any correspondence. However, we do not advise this.
    
    

Mammograms

These breast checks are carried out every 3 years, when the mobile service from York is based in Selby, at Selby War Memorial Hospital, for about 3 months.

Women in their 50th year and older, up to 65 years are called up for screening. Above the age of 65, women have to specifically request the test, by contacting the mammography unit in York, when the service is in Selby.

Some women will be recalled for a further check if there is the suspicion of an abnormality, when they will need to go to York.

The service is not due in Selby until late in 2009.

If women have any concerns relating to abnormalities in their breasts, they should seek medical advice and not wait for the screening programme.
    
    

Blood Pressure Checks

We advise that every adult should have a Blood Pressure check at least every 5 years.

Blood pressure is a silent problem and its first presentation may be with a complication such as a stroke.

Women frequently have blood pressure checks as part of contraceptive checks or ante-natal care, but men, who may be at higher risk often miss out on these.
    
    

Men's Health

There is no screening yet specifically targeted at men.

We do advise Blood Pressure checks as above. We can also advise patients who may be at high risk of developing heart disease or diabetes

However, we do advise older men who may be having urinary problems, to seek help and advice. For them, prostate screening may be suitable.

If you have any concerns, please make an appointment with one of the GPs or Nurses.