Wednesday 25 September 2024
Maggie's
You may have tests for cancer because of symptoms or changes within your body that are worrying you, after routine screening, or as part of follow-up for an existing cancer.
This page will help you find out more about the different tests for cancer and how ¾ÞÈéÎÞÂë can help.
There are lots of tests used to help diagnose cancer.
Your GP or consultant will decide which tests are right for you based on:
The most common ways to test for cancer include:
You should always be given instructions before you have a test for cancer to tell you if you need to do anything before or after.
Sometimes you will be asked not to eat beforehand or temporarily stop taking some of your medications.
If there’s anything you don’t understand, you can phone the hospital or GP and check.
When you are referred you should either receive an appointment for a specific test or with a specialist doctor to discuss the tests you might need.
How quickly this might happen depends on where you live.
Depending on the results of your tests there might be further investigations needed.
You might have questions about the tests you may be having, and what the results could mean.
You may feel your anxiety levels are building up and your concentration affected as you wait for the results.
Our Cancer Support Specialists are here listen to your concerns and help you find the information and help right for you:
Last review: Oct 2021 | Next review: Oct 2022
Learn more about the types of tests done to find and diagnose cancer.
From American Cancer Society
Last reviewed: 21 October 2021
Find out more about different types of tests and scans you may be offered.
From Cancer Research Uk (Cruk)
Last reviewed: 21 October 2021
Find out more about a wide range of medical tests and procedures.
From Cancer.Net
Last reviewed: 21 October 2021
Lab Tests Online-UK is written by practising laboratory doctors and scientists to help you understand the many clinical laboratory tests that are used in diagnosis, monitoring and treatment of disease.
From Lab Tests Online - Uk
Last reviewed: 21 October 2021
Find out more about different tests used to diagnose cancer.
From Macmillan Cancer Support
Last reviewed: 21 October 2021
Information about different types of scans.
From Radiologyinfo.Org
Last reviewed: 21 October 2021
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