Why early cancer detection is so important, as Lauren Laverne shares diagnosis
Lauren Laverne's cancer diagnosis comes as a reminder of the importance of attending screenings and receiving a prompt diagnosis.
The BBC radio presenter shared the news on Instagram, revealing it was luckily "caught early and unexpectedly during a screening test" and she is "expected to make a full recovery".
While the Desert Island Discs presenter didn't disclose the type of cancer she had, she shared words of encouragement for those apprehensive about attending cancer screenings.
"I also want to say that if you’re avoiding a test or putting off an appointment to get yourself checked out please, please do it today," Laverne wrote.
"Half of us will get cancer at some point, and if you do, finding out asap is everything."
So with that in mind, here we consult two doctors to remind us exactly why early detection is so important. Plus, a quick recap of some of the key NHS cancer screening programmes to help diagnose different types of cancer or risk of cancer earlier and improve the likelihood of successful treatment.
The importance of early cancer detection
"Screening for cancer is extremely important if health is a priority in today’s modern world. This is because most people are asymptomatic when the cancer starts," says GP and functional medicine doctor Dr Leke.
"Cancer is essentially abnormal uncontrolled growth of a group of cells. Most cancers start at the cellular level and grow bigger over time. As they grown the look of the cells might change (Cervical smear for cancer). Furthermore, the cells might produce markers that rise abnormally (PSA for prostate, CA-125 for ovarian cancer).
"Finally, some cancers form solid masses and might cause obstruction or erosions causing bleeding (Bowel stool test)."
And for those (understandably) nervous about attending screenings, it's always the better option. "Contrary to popular belief, not all cancers are aggressive," says Dr Leke.
"This means catching a cancer early might allow time for either chemotherapy, radiotherapy or surgery. Many people do make full recovery from these therapeutic modalities."
Dr Joshua Berkowitz, medical director at IVBoost UK, adds, "Detecting cancer in its initial stages often means that the disease is more localised and has not yet spread, making it easier to treat effectively. Early detection can lead to a wider range of treatment options, including less invasive procedures and a higher likelihood of remission.
"The survival rates are significantly higher for many cancers when diagnosed early, as treatments can be more targeted and aggressive before the cancer progresses. Early diagnosis also reduces the emotional and financial burden on patients and their families by potentially avoiding prolonged and more complex treatments."
Taking control of your health
If you're worried about something at any time, don't just wait for a screening or general check up. "Screening tests are population-based. A target population is individualised with certain risk factors," says Dr Leke.
"However, we are all different. Our biology is different. If symptoms occur, then it is imperative to book an appointment with your GP."
Plus, not being over a certain age doesn't mean you should feel it's safer to delay attending screenings you've been invited to, or ignore a symptom. "Over the last few years, we are seeing many cancers present in younger age groups. Cancers in younger people tend to be more aggressive and therefore quite advanced when they present," Dr Leke explains.
In this sense, it makes it even more important for younger adults not to dismiss making or going to that appointment.
When are you invited to screening programmes?
Cervical screening
This is offered to people in England with a cervix from age 25 to 64. You'll get a letter in the post inviting you to make an appointment – if you don't, contact your GP.
While routine screening is offered every three years up to 49 and every five years from 50 to 64, depending on results, some may be recalled earlier.
Here's when you'll be invited for cervical screening in different parts of the UK:
Breast screening
Mammograms are offered to women aged 50 to their 71st birthday. You'll be invited to screening within three years of your 50th birthday.
THE NHS says there is also a trial to examine the effectiveness of offering some women one extra screen between 47 and 49 and one between 71 and 73. You have a high risk of developing breast cancer, you may also be eligible before 50.
In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, if you are over 70 you can still have screenings every three years but you won't be automatically invited, so if you want them, you'll need to contact your local breast screening service.
In Scotland, you can continue to have mammograms until your 75th birthday, but again, you'll have to arrange this yourself.
Bowel screening
Men and women in England aged 60-74 will be sent a home testing kit every two years to collect a small poo sample, while there is also a commitment to lower the bowel screening age to 50 to improve the sensitivity of the screening test.
In Wales, you receive a bowel cancer screening kit if you're aged between 51 and 74 years, in Scotland between 50 and 74 years, and in Northern Ireland between 60 and 74.
For more information on other cancer types, see our guide: When you should get checked for certain cancer types (Yahoo Life UK, 6-min read)
For more on Lauren Laverne, see: What we know as BBC presenter Lauren Laverne reveals cancer diagnosis (Yahoo Life UK, 5-min read)
