Health checks you should NEVER MISS

They could save your life, so here's what you need to know - and why

- TANYA PEAREY

Every year the lives of countless people are saved, thanks to NHS screening tests and their own diligence.

'You can carry out several examinations yourself, either at home or with a licensed GP, to spot fatal conditions as early as possible,' says GP Dr Donald Grant, senior clinical advisor at The Independent Pharmacy*. Here's how.

Smear tests

'According to Cancer Research, there are around nine new cases of cervical cancer every day in the UK, highlighting the necessity for regular check-ups,' says Dr Grant. Cervical screening, or the 'smear' test, assesses the health of your cervix to help prevent this cancer. You'll be offered the test between ages 25 and 64. You're still at risk, even if you've had the HPV vaccine (this doesn't protect you from all types of HPV - the group of viruses responsible for the cancer) or if you've had only one sexual partner, or the same partner for years or not had sex for a long time (you can get HPV the first time you are sexually active and have it without knowing). 'Currently, the NHS is trialling at-home smear tests,' says Dr Grant. 'This allows women to assess themselves before sending the swab off for further examination. If HPV cells are detected, the patient will be contacted for an in-person cervical screening.'

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