Slough Women’s event shares vital information

Slough Women’s event shares vital information on the importance of understanding cancer prevention and taking up NHS cancer screening offers during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. 

Last weekend, on Saturday, 19 October, women from across Slough gathered for an inspiring event focused on health and wellbeing. Joined by a panel of experts and visiting healthcare providers, participants explored essential information that could potentially save lives.

With a special focus on cancer awareness and prevention, the event brought together local clinicians to share important facts, breast screening professionals to provide guidance, and courageous cancer survivors to share their personal stories. It was a morning filled with learning, support, and community connection.

NHS Frimley Chief Medical Officer and local Slough GP, Dr Lalitha Iyer, has a passion for women’s health and talked about the incidences of gynaecological cancers, highlighting the crucial role of screening in prevention and early detection. Following the presentation, Dr Iyer joined colleagues Dr Siva Sithirapathy and Dr Kesar Sadhra, to discuss these important topics further with the audience.

Together, they emphasised preventative actions that women can take to reduce their risk of developing the three most common cancers affecting women in the UK today: breast, ovarian, and cervical cancers.

The panel also shared helpful insights on how to access general practice appointments when you have concerns about cancer symptoms or have missed screening, about navigating menopause and embracing a healthier lifestyle. These discussions offered a well-rounded look at women’s health. Each topic was carefully chosen to address real concerns that healthcare professionals often hear from women, making the event both relevant and empowering. 

After the panel discussion, additional insights were shared by the NHS Frimley Health Foundation Trust's Breast Screening team which was particularly relevant as we are marking breast cancer awareness month. They provided essential information on how to perform a breast check, how breast screening works, what to expect at a screening appointment (mammogram), the significance of regular mammograms, and guidance on when and how to schedule them.

Asian Star Radio's Sbba Siddique, an ovarian cancer survivor, and Samina Hussain, a breast cancer survivor and founder of the local charity Sakoon Through Cancer, shared their personal stories of cancer diagnosis, treatment and life after cancer.

They spoke about not only overcoming the challenges of treatment but also navigating cultural obstacles and other barriers. Their messages strongly reiterated the importance of self-care and the critical role of participating in screening programmes, highlighting how early detection and personal empowerment can make a significant difference in health outcomes.

The collaborative effort made by local health and wellbeing organisations within Slough gave attendees access a wide range of resources and support outside of the talks and feedback was positive.

Comments included:

"An amazing event, very inspirational,"

"Very informative. Great to hear personal stories"

"Very inclusive"

"The event clearly resonated with participants, offering valuable insights and inspiration.” 

So what do you need to know and how can you make a difference to yourself and for your family, friends and loved ones?.

1. Cervical cancer is 99.8% preventable!
Cervical cancer is primarily caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV), but the good news is it can be prevented. Make sure to:

• Get the HPV vaccination.
• Attend your cervical screening (smear test) when invited.
• Follow up on any necessary appointments.

The NHS recommends cervical screenings for women and anyone with a cervix aged 25-64, every 3-5 years depending on your age.

2. Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women, but you can reduce your risk.

You can lower your risk by:

• Maintaining a healthy weight.
• Exercising regularly.
• Limiting alcohol intake.

Most importantly, attend your breast cancer screenings when invited! The NHS offers mammograms every three years for women aged 50-71. If you’re over 71, you can still book a screening. Check the NHS website to find your local breast screening unit. 

3. Ovarian cancer can be trickier to catch early, so stay alert to the signs.

There is currently no standard screening for ovarian cancer, which makes knowing the symptoms even more important. Pay attention to:

• Bloating.
• Abdominal pain.

These symptoms can be subtle, especially if you have a family history of ovarian or breast cancer. Trust your instincts—if something feels off, make an appointment with your doctor to discuss your concerns.

If you would like to learn more about the cancer screening offered to women in England by the NHS you can visit nhs.uk/conditions/nhs-screening