Scans and Screenings
There are many routine scans and screenings you will be invited for, based on your age and/or gender. This page gives you an idea of how these scans and screenings work, and what may be involved in each.
ABDOMINAL AORTIC ANEURYSM (AAA) SCREENING
All men in their 65th year are offered a free ultrasound screening test for AAA. Those over 65 and haven't received the test are able to self refer.
Click here for the information leaflet Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening
You can obtain more information from the Sussex National Screening Office:
Tel: 01243 831 503
BOWEL CANCER SCREENING
Bowel Cancer is the most common cancer in the UK, and the earlier it is found, the easier it is to treat.
That's why Bowel Cancer Screening is offered to everyone aged 54 to 74 years old. A testing kit is sent to you in the post every two years; simply do the test and send it off in the post!
For more information about how to do the test, visit the Bowel Cancer UK Website
BREAST SCREENING
Every woman registered with a GP, aged between 50 and 71 years old, will be invited for a Mammogram every 3 years.
You will receive a letter through the post inviting you to your next breast screening.
If you have symptoms of Breast Cancer, do not wait until your next screening! Speak to your GP to get any worrying symptoms checked out!
Resources:
CERVICAL SCREENING
All women aged between 25-64 will be invited for a cervical screening by letter.
When will I be invited for my cervical screening?
| AGE | WHEN YOU'RE INVITED |
|---|---|
| Under 25 |
Up to 6 months before you turn 25. Please note: We will not be able to complete the screening until after your 25th Birthday |
| 25-49 | Every 3 years |
| 50-64 | Every 5 years |
| 65 or older | Only if a recent test was abnormal. |
Why have I NOT been invited?
- If you are under 25, as Cervical Cancer is rare in this age group.
- If you are over 65, unless a recent test was abnormal
- If you have had a total Hysterectomy, as you no longer have a cervix.
Resources:
RETINOPATHY SCREENING FOR DIABETICS
Diabetic patients aged 12 and over will be invited every 1 or 2 years for a Diabetic Eye Screening, which looks for signs of a condition called Diabetic Retinopathy, which can cause sight loss if not treated.
Diabetic Eye Screening is different to a regular eye test. It is important to have routine eye tests to check for other conditions.
NHS HEALTH CHECK SCREENING
Free NHS Health Checks look for signs of Heart Disease, Diabetes, Kidney Disease and Stroke in patients aged 40-74.
At Moatfield Surgery, we are prioritising patients who we don't often see, as they are most at risk of having an undiagnosed condition. You can also get a health check at some local pharmacies.
Why Haven't I Been Invited for a Health Check?
The check is for people who are aged 40 to 74 who do not have any of the following pre-existing conditions:
- heart disease
- chronic kidney disease
- diabetes
- high blood pressure (hypertension)
- atrial fibrillation
- transient ischaemic attack
- inherited high cholesterol (familial hypercholesterolemia)
- heart failure
- peripheral arterial disease
- stroke
- currently being prescribed statins to lower cholesterol
- previous checks have found that you have a 20% or higher risk of getting cardiovascular disease over the next 10 years
What is Involved in a Health Check?
A Health Check usually includes
- Measuring your height & weight
- Measuring your waist
- Testing your blood pressure
- Testing your Cholesterol and Blood Sugars.
We will also as you some questions about your health such as:
- Your Smoking Status
- Whether you drink alcohol, and how much.
- How mch physical activity you do
- Whether any of your close relatives have had any medical conditions.
Last Reviewed - 04/03/2025