Cancer Screening
Multi-modal screening for early detection of the most common and treatable malignancies.
Understanding Cancer Screening
One in two people born after 1960 in the UK will be diagnosed with cancer at some point — but that statistic sits alongside a more hopeful one: survival has doubled in the last forty years, and stage at diagnosis is the single biggest determinant of outcome. Bowel cancer caught at stage 1 has a five-year survival above 90%; at stage 4, below 10%. The entire logic of screening rests on shifting diagnoses towards the early, treatable end.
Blood and stool-based screening has a defined, honest role in that effort. Validated markers exist for specific cancers — PSA for prostate risk, CA-125 with HE4 for ovarian assessment, AFP/Beta-HCG/LDH for testicular, and the QFIT stool test (the same technology as the NHS bowel programme) for hidden intestinal bleeding. Each identifies people who may benefit from further investigation; none diagnoses cancer alone, and we are always explicit about that.
Sensible private screening complements, and never replaces, the NHS programmes — bowel (50–74), breast (50–71) and cervical (25–64) — which you should always attend. Where private testing adds value is in the gaps: younger ages, male-specific risk markers the NHS does not routinely offer, family-history-driven monitoring, and simple speed and convenience.
Risk Indicators
- Family cancer history
- Unexplained weight loss
- Screening overdue
- Age-related risk
Expert Care by Luciana
Our experienced registered nurse performs gentle blood draws with complete discretion. Your results are explained in a clear written report.
Diagnostic Path
Identifying clinical markers associated with cancer screening requires a high-resolution laboratory profile. Below are the recommended diagnostic assessments specifically calibrated for this concern.
We offer targeted risk screenings for the most common and most treatable cancers: Prostate Cancer Risk Screening (Total and Free PSA within a 40+ marker panel), the advanced Stockholm3 prostate assessment, Ovarian Cancer Risk Screening (CA-125, HE4 and ROMA algorithm), Testicular Cancer Blood Screening (AFP, Beta-HCG, LDH) and Bowel Cancer Risk Screening (QFIT plus calprotectin). The Platinum Full Body MOTs include the age- and sex-relevant markers within our fullest health screen.
When to See Your GP Urgently
Screening is for people without acute symptoms. If any of the following apply, please seek medical care first:
- Unexplained weight loss, night sweats or persistent fatigue — see your GP
- A new lump anywhere, blood in urine, stool or when coughing — see your GP promptly
- A change in bowel habit lasting more than three weeks — see your GP
- Post-menopausal bleeding — see your GP promptly
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a blood test detect cancer?
No single blood test can diagnose or rule out cancer, and any clinic suggesting otherwise should be treated with caution. Validated markers assess risk and prompt appropriate further investigation — imaging, endoscopy or biopsy through the NHS — which is where diagnosis actually happens.
Which screening is right for me?
It depends on age, sex and family history. Men over 45–50: prostate markers. Women with ovarian or breast cancer family history: the CA-125/HE4 panel. Anyone 40+ (or younger with family history): the QFIT bowel test. Unsure? Book a Decide in Clinic appointment and our nurse will advise.
What happens if a marker comes back raised?
Your written report explains the result and its context — most raised markers have benign explanations. We will tell you clearly what to take to your GP, who can arrange the appropriate next investigation. We never leave you alone with a worrying number.
Should I still attend NHS screening?
Always. NHS bowel, breast and cervical programmes are evidence-based and free — our services are designed to complement them, filling age gaps and covering markers they do not include.
Related Reading
Platinum Full Body MOT – Men
Platinum Full Body MOT – Women
Prostate Cancer Risk & Health Screening
Ovarian Cancer Risk Screening
Bowel Cancer Risk Screening
Our South Kensington Clinic
You will receive a detailed written report from our registered nurse with all examination findings and lab results.
Not sure which test you need? We'll guide you.
Book a health screening without choosing a package — our registered nurse will call you before your visit to talk through your health goals and recommend the right tests for you. No obligation, and you only pay in clinic for what you choose.
Guided bookings open from two days ahead so our team can call you first. Outside clinic hours? Message us on WhatsApp and we’ll reply as soon as we open.
Clinical Testimonials.
"Luciana the Brazilian nurse is the best!! Very kind and super efficient, she managed to get my blood very smoothly and I had the best experience. I really recommend going there and asking for her."
"Great experience at South Kensington Medical and Dental Clinic. Kind staff, quick appointment, and very fast results. Everything was smooth and stress-free. Highly recommend!"
"I was really impressed by the whole experience at South Kensington MD. Booking and engagement were seamless, with no tedious manual forms to fill in. The staff were friendly and welcoming throughout."
