Screening

However, screening is not suitable for every condition. Organised screening programmes are only established on the recommendation of the UK National Screening Committee and according to the best available evidence. Any condition being considered as a screening programme must meet a number of stringent criteria before it is recommended by the Committee.

In Northern Ireland the PHA operates the following screening programmes:

  • Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) screening

    The overall aim of the Northern Ireland AAA Screening Programme is to reduce deaths from burst abdominal aortic aneurysms through early detection, monitoring and treatment.  

  • Antenatal screening

    In Northern Ireland all pregnant women are offered a screening blood test to check for hepatitis B, HIV, and syphilis infection and for rubella virus (German measles) susceptibility.

  • Breast screening

    The breast screening programme covers the whole of Northern Ireland. Women aged 50 to 70, who are registered with a GP, are invited every three years.

  • Bowel cancer screening

    The bowel cancer screening programme, which allows early detection and treatment, significantly improves outcomes for those with the disease which will save approximately 60 lives a year. 

  • Cervical cancer screening

    The Northern Ireland Cervical Screening Programme aims to reduce the number of women who develop cervical cancer and the number who die from it.

  • Diabetic eye screening

    In line with other regions of the UK, people who are at greatest risk of sight loss are being prioritised as the service is restored.

  • Newborn screening

    During the first few weeks after your baby is born, they will be offered a blood spot screening test and hearing screening test. 

Was this page useful?