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Cervical Screening Week is a good time to talk about how cervical screening can help stop cervical cancer before it starts. Cervical screening is also called a smear test. It is not a test for cancer. The test checks for HPV (human papillomavirus). Some types of HPV can cause changes to the cells of the cervix. If these changes are found early, they can be treated and it can prevent cancer. In England, women and people with a cervix aged 25–64 are eligible for cervical screen

Cold and stormy weather can have a serious impact on health, particularly for older people, young children, and those with long-term health conditions. In Southend, there is currently an amber weather warning for ice and cold, so extra care is needed over the coming days. When temperatures fall, the risk of illnesses such as flu, chest infections, heart attacks and strokes increases. Cold homes can also worsen conditions like asthma, arthritis and high blood pressure. Keeping

Looking After Your Mental Health Over the Winter Break Winter can be a hard time for many people. Short days, cold weather, and changes to routine can affect how we feel. Getting support early can really help. It can prevent problems from getting worse and reduce the need for urgent care later on. There are simple things you can do to support your mental wellbeing over the winter break. Top Tips for Better Mental Wellbeing ·       Stay active: Moving your body can lift your m

Staying Well This Festive Season The festive period is a busy time, but it’s important to look after your health. Cold weather can make some health problems worse, especially for older people, young children, and anyone with a long-term condition. Keep warm, wear layers, and drink hot drinks. GP practices and many pharmacies have reduced opening hours over the bank holidays. This means you may not be able to get help as quickly as normal. If you take regular medicine, order y

In Southend, around 3% of people are estimated to be living with HIV. This is higher than the national average of 1%. A major issue is late diagnosis, which can harm health and increase the chance of passing HIV to others. HIV affects the immune system and makes it harder to fight infections. Without treatment, it can develop into AIDS, the most advanced stage. AIDS can be treated, but it is harder to manage. You can find information about symptoms on the NHS website. Health

The British Medical Association has announced five days of strike action by resident doctors. There will be a full walkout beginning at 07:00 on Friday 14 November 2025 and ending at 06:59 on Wednesday 19 November 2025. What can you do to help? ● If you need urgent health help , use NHS 111 online (www.111.nhs.uk) or call 111.Your symptoms will be assessed, and you will be provided with healthcare advice or an appointment for the most appropriate healthcare service for your

At this time of year, it's important to remind those who have served in the Armed Forces and Merchant Navy that healthcare support is available for them. Even if you only served for a few days. Non-mobilised reservists are also regarded as veterans. Let your GP know . This will help your GP to better understand your health, including any health problems related to your service. It will also help make sure you're referred to dedicated services for veterans, where appropriate

October is breast cancer awareness month, and it is time to get talking about a disease which is mostly prevalent in women but also...

Taking paracetamol during pregnancy has hit the news recently. Dr Alison Cave, Chief Safety Officer at the Medicines & Healthcare...

World Suicide Prevention Day is observed annually on 10 September to raise awareness about how individuals and organisations can work...

Use the NHS website ( https://www.nhs.uk/service-search/find-a-dentist/ ) to search for a dentist near you. The site also provides...

Mid & South Essex Hospitals have announced changes to parking at Basildon, Broomfield and Southend Hospitals. When you enter the hospital...

Pride Month is a celebration of identity, diversity and equality. It’s also a reminder of the challenges many LGBTQ+ people still face – particularly when it comes to mental health.

Many Southend residents are waiting for an ADHD diagnosis or treatment. The NHS in mid and south Essex has shared some information.

The NHS in mid and south Essex has shared the following advice and guidance for those fasting this Ramadan.

As of Monday 3 February, patients are no longer able to access the NHS App on older mobile devices.

The ‘Invincible Feeling, Invisible Danger’ campaign aims to raise awareness about the importance of regular blood pressure monitoring.

Norovirus cases are on the rise. Norovirus is a stomach bug that causes diarrhoea and vomiting. It usually lasts about 2 days.

NHS Mid and South Essex has shared the following advice on where to go to seek help when you need it.

NHS Mid and South Essex Foundation Trust is gradually introducing a new digital platform for its patients called Patients Know Best (PKB).