Early detection and screening: better outcomes for women

For many women, busy lives mean health checks are easy to miss. But regular screening is one of the most important ways to protect your long-term wellbeing. By catching potential health concerns early, often before symptoms appear, treatment can be less complex and more effective.

The NHS provides routine screening at certain ages, but these checks aren’t always frequent enough and may not reflect personal risk factors. That’s why King Edward VII’s Hospital has created the Women’s Health Screening Package. It’s designed to offer more regular and personalised assessments that give women greater reassurance and control over their health. 

Why women’s health screening matters

Women’s health screening is a structured programme of tests and assessments that can spot problems early – before they become advanced or harder to treat. 

The tests look for some of the most common health concerns that affect women, including:

• Cancers such as breast, cervical and ovarian cancer
• Heart conditions and circulation issues
• Bone health conditions, such as osteoporosis
• Metabolic disorders like diabetes

Because many of these conditions develop silently, regular screening provides reassurance and peace of mind. For example, high blood pressure, high cholesterol or early changes in breast tissue may only be detected through routine checks. Screening provides an opportunity to catch these issues early, when they’re usually easier to treat and manage.

Health risks also change over time. A woman in her 30s may prioritise cervical health and fertility, while women approaching menopause may benefit from bone density and cardiovascular health checks. Family history and lifestyle factors can add further risks, making tailored screening an important part of preventive care.

By giving a clear picture of your health, screening can help you make informed choices, take preventive action where needed and feel confident about your long-term wellbeing.

The limits of standard NHS screening

The NHS offers several important screening programmes, including cervical screening from age 25, breast screening from age 50 and bowel screening from age 60. These programmes are effective at a population level, but they don’t always reflect individual risk factors or personal circumstances.

The intervals between NHS screenings can be several years, and many women fall into gaps where no routine checks are offered. For example, women in their 40s aren’t routinely invited for breast screening, even though breast cancer can and does occur in this age group. Similarly, there’s no standard NHS screening for conditions like ovarian cancer or heart disease, despite their significant impact on women’s health.

This approach can leave women without the reassurance they need between appointments. For those with additional risk factors such as a strong family history of cancer or heart disease, the wait for the next NHS check may feel too long.

The benefits of more frequent and tailored health screenings

Early detection can make a measurable difference to outcomes. Cancers detected at an early stage are more likely to be treated successfully and may require less aggressive treatment. Heart disease identified through raised blood pressure or cholesterol can often be managed through lifestyle changes or medication before a serious event like a heart attack occurs.

More frequent screening also allows healthcare teams to build a personal health timeline. By comparing results over time, even subtle changes can be spotted quickly. This gives reassurance when things stay the same and allows early action if something changes.

Tailored screening is equally important. Instead of a one-size-fits-all model, individual risk factors such as age, family history and lifestyle are taken into account – making checks relevant, targeted and truly supportive of a woman’s needs.

Examples of tailored screening:

• A woman in her 40s may have breast imaging before NHS invitations begin
• Someone with a family history of heart disease may be offered additional cardiovascular checks
• A woman experiencing menopausal changes could have her bone health reviewed to prevent osteoporosis (weak bones) later in life

Inside King Edward VII’s Women’s Health Screening Package

The Women’s Health Screening Package at King Edward VII’s Hospital is designed for women aged 40 and above who want to take a proactive approach to their health. It brings together a comprehensive set of checks, completed on the same day, with rapid results and expert support throughout.

The package includes:

• Breast mammogram and breast ultrasound to assess breast health
• Consultation with a gynaecologist to review personal history, discuss concerns and tailor care
• Transvaginal ultrasound to examine reproductive health
• Cervical screening to check for cervical cell changes
• Follow-up call with a Clinical Nurse Specialist within three working days to discuss cervical results and answer questions, with a full written report sent within five working days

Patients benefit from private, specialist-led care in a discreet and supportive environment. No GP referral is needed, and annual courtesy reminders make it easier to stay on top of your health.

Flexibility is also built in. The package can be customised with additional screening options, and appointments can be arranged across multiple days if needed. All of this is available for £950, offering not only reassurance but also comprehensive care at a clear, all-inclusive price.

By combining speed, accuracy and compassionate support, this package gives women the confidence that their health is being monitored by experts who understand their unique needs.

Take control of your health today

Looking after your health helps you live with confidence and independence. Regular, personalised screening allows women to take control, act early and avoid the uncertainty that comes with waiting years between appointments.

Investing in health today helps to safeguard the future. With the support of King Edward VII’s Hospital’s Women’s Health Screening Package, women can feel reassured that their wellbeing is monitored by experts who understand their unique needs. 

King Edward VII’s Hospital is proud to support women in taking a proactive approach to their health. 

To find out more about the Women’s Health Screening Package or to book an appointment, please get in touch with our team today.