Do Medichecks do cancer tests?

There are very few tests that can reliably screen for cancer. If you have any concerning symptoms, it's important you discuss them with your doctor.

Tests for detecting cancer

Most tests needed to detect cancer, such as scans, procedures, or biopsies, are only available in hospital settings. These tests are typically performed after a doctor assesses your symptoms and determines they're necessary.

While blood tests can sometimes provide helpful insights, they're generally not accurate enough to confirm or exclude the presence of cancer. However, they can sometimes be helpful as a screening tool — a positive result can then be followed up with further tests if it's appropriate. Unfortunately, every test carries a small risk of delivering a false-positive or false-negative result, which could either cause unnecessary anxiety or be falsely reassuring. It's important to bear this in mind before considering a test.

If you’re experiencing symptoms that are worrying you or suggest the possibility of cancer, it’s important to make an appointment with your GP as soon as possible.

PSA testing

PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) is the only tumour marker used as part of a screening process. A PSA test can help men decide whether further testing for prostate cancer is needed. 

NHS PSA testing:

• Men aged 50–74 can request a PSA test from their GP
• Black men and men with a family history of prostate cancer can request a test from the age of 45

We offer a PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) Blood Test to help assess your risk of prostate cancer which you can take at home. We recommend reading about the pros and cons of PSA testing before deciding to take this test.

You can find more information on PSA testing through the NHS.

Bowel cancer screening

Bowel cancer screening can detect cancer early, increasing the chances of successful treatment.

NHS bowel screening:

• The NHS offers bowel screening every two years to individuals aged 60–74 (50–74 in Scotland)

Medichecks offers the same qFIT Bowel Cancer Screening Test used by the NHS. However, if you are experiencing symptoms such as weight loss, changes in bowel habits, or visible blood in your stool, we recommend consulting your GP rather than self-investigating.

If you would like to find out more about the NHS bowel cancer screening program in your area visit the links below:

England Northern Ireland Scotland Wales

Breast cancer screening

Breast cancer screening involves a mammogram, which uses x-rays to detect abnormalities in breast tissue.

NHS breast screening:

• Women aged 50–70 are offered a mammogram every three years through the NHS

You can find out more about the breast cancer screening program below:

England Northern Ireland Scotland Wales

Cervical screening

Cervical screening aims to prevent or detect cervical cancer early. It involves testing for abnormal cells and high-risk HPV (human papillomavirus).

NHS cervical screening:

• Women aged 25–64 are invited for cervical screening at regular intervals

You can find out more about the cervical screening program below:

England Northern Ireland Scotland Wales

Summary

At Medichecks, we offer tests that can help assess specific cancer risks, such as the PSA Test and the qFIT Bowel Cancer Screening Test. However, these tests are not a substitute for medical advice. If you have symptoms that concern you, we strongly recommend discussing them with your GP to ensure appropriate investigation and care.