What is bowel cancer screening?

Bowel cancer screening reduces the chances of developing bowel cancer, through early identification and better treatment.

Bowel cancer is the third most common cancer in both men and women in the UK.  The condition is treatable if diagnosed in the early stages. Survival rates for men and women have doubled over the last 30 years as a result of earlier diagnosis and better treatment. 

Our comprehensive bowel cancer screen incorporates the most up to date procedures and colonoscopy  to:

• identify whether you have bowel cancer or may be likely to develop the condition in the future

• remove for examination, any polyps, or small growths,  some of which may be cancers, or could become cancers over time.

• ensure you are referred quickly for further examination or treatment if needed

• advise you on any concerns you may have

• highlight any issues you may need to address

• help you make positive lifestyle choices

Benefits of bowel cancer screening at Bupa Cromwell Hospital

Located in Kensington, central London, Bupa Cromwell Hospital is a technologically advanced private hospital.  Our discreet and comfortable Endoscopy Suite, where bowel cancer screening takes place, has all the very latest equipment.

Our doctors and clinical support team focus exclusively on endoscopy; they are highly experienced, and use the most modern techniques.  if you do need further treatment you have direct access to the Bupa Cromwell Hospital Cancer Centre which is led by a specialist multidisciplinary team of consultants, supported by dedicated cancer clinical specialists and nurses, using the most modern techniques.

Why should I consider screening for bowel cancer by colonoscopy?

Treatments for bowel cancer are more likely to be effective if the condition is detected at an early stage.  Colonoscopy is the most effective way to diagnose bowel cancer with over 99% accuracy, and enables the specialist to examine the whole colon including the upper colon, which would not be possible by sigmoidoscopy.

You may particularly wish to be screened if you belong to one of the higher risk groups for bowel cancer, for example if you have reached 50 or more years of age, which is when polyps are more likely to develop.  You are at increased risk if you are a smoker and or, if you have:

• a diet high in red meat and low in fruit, vegetables and fibre

• obesity issues

• low levels of physical activity

• high levels of alcohol consumption over an extended period

What does bowel cancer screening involve?

Firstly we ask you to complete a questionnaire to help our specialist consultants decide whether bowel cancer screening is appropriate for you.

Once they have considered your responses, the consultant will telephone you to discuss the results, and whether or not you are suitable for bowel cancer screening using colonoscopy. 

Results of your colonoscopy

A written record of the results of your colonoscopy will be given to you at the end of your appointment.

If any polyps are removed, the results will be ready within seven days, and your consultant will discuss these with you at your follow-up consultation.

Comprehensive package

We offer a complete packaging which includes consultancy fees, the colonoscopy examination; CT scan; and analysis of any biopsies taken.

Breast cancer is the most frequent form of cancer in women, and early detection makes treatment easier, with better prospects for patient recovery. 

According to Macmillan Cancer Support, breast cancer screening saves the lives of around 1,400 women a year in England. Breast assessment at Bupa Cromwell Hospital is carried out by our breast care nurse consultant.

What is breast screening and awareness?

Breast screening or mammography (breast X-ray) is used to detect changes that have occurred in a woman's breasts when she has no breast symptoms.

Breast awareness is knowing what is normal for your breasts so you can be alert to any changes if they happen.

Benefits of breast screening and awareness at Bupa Cromwell Hospital

We have a team of dedicated breast specialists including:

• breast care nurse consultant

• mammographer

• breast radiologists

• breast surgeons

Why should I consider a breast screening and breast awareness assessment?

If you are under 50 years of age, having breast screening is a personal choice. The NHS currently offers three-yearly mammograms to women of 47 years of age and over.

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in the UK and two out of every ten women are under 50 years of age when they are diagnosed. Regular screening, or screening from 40 years of age, can give you peace of mind, or offer early detection of any problems.

What does breast screening and breast awareness involve?

The breast care nurse consultant will examine your breasts and teach you breast awareness.  Knowing what is normal for your breasts will alert you to any changes if they happen.

You will then have a digital mammogram (an X-ray of your breasts), carried out by a mammographer and interpreted by a specialist consultant.

Results of my assessment

You will usually have the results of your assessment within 48 hours. You can choose how you would like to receive these results, by phone, via your GP or in person.

If I need further treatment

The breast care nurse consultant can quickly refer you to Bupa Cromwell Hospital Cancer Centre, or our breast care service which offers support and practical help to those dealing with any breast condition.

Women and changing health status

The menopause normally occurs at around the age of 50 years although around one in ten women can experience menopause at around 40 years of age. 

Changes in your body and how you might feel about them, is an ideal time to review your overall health and wellbeing.  Your health is no less important than it was beforehand and you deserve expert, individual advice and care.

Benefits of having your menopause and osteoporosis health assessment at Bupa Cromwell Hospital

We offer a comprehensive range of assessments based on leading edge diagnostic equipment and highly-trained doctors and nurses, to help you take control of your health and make positive lifestyle choices that are personal to you, whatever life stage you are at.

What does menopause and osteoporosis health assessment involve?

Your assessment begins with a consultation with one of our private hospital-based GPs, who will supervise your programme and any diagnostic tests, carried out by nurses and specialist clinical staff.

This health assessment programme includes a range of tests including:

• height and weight measurement, and an estimate of your body mass index (BMI)

• blood pressure measurement

• medical questionnaire covering family and gynaecological history

• bone density X-ray scan (DEXA) to assess the presence of osteoporosis, or a weakening of the bones due to hormone changes, particularly affecting women around and after the menopause

• breast examination and instruction on how to do this for yourself for reassurance or to identify any problems at the earliest stage

• mammogram

• cervical smear tests with HPV test and pelvic examination

• menopausal blood profile

• urine analysis

• follow-up medical report and recommendations including a referral for further examination or treatment if you need it, together with any advice on diet and other lifestyle considerations.

When will I get my results?

Mammogram results are available within 48 hours.  We will give you your other results either on the day, or at your follow-up consultation within seven days.