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Friday, 6 June 2025

Brunei: PCMF June Health Promotion - Sun Burn

Sun Burn


Cervical Screening


Cervical screening, which used to be called smear test, is a way of preventing cervical cancer. It is not a test for cancer. It tests for a virus called human papillomavirus (HPV).

High risk HPV can cause cell changes in the cervix, which may develop into cancer over time. But not all cell changes will develop into cancer. So, it's important to monitor any changes and give treatment if necessary. Nearly all cases of cervical cancer are linked to high-risk HPV.

Cervical screening uses HPV primary screening. During the test, a nurse or doctor uses a small soft brush to take a sample of cells from the cervix. They send this sample to the laboratory. The cervical cells are first tested for the HPV virus. If high risk HPV is found, the laboratory will test the sample for cell changes. Find out more on abnormal cervical cells: https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/cervical-cancer/abnormal-cervical-cells

Who can have cervical screening?
Cervical screening is free for anyone with a cervix from age 25 to 64. You need to be registered with a GP to get your screening invitations. You get an invite every 3 to 5 years depending on where you live and your age. You may get your first invitation for screening in the 6 months before you turn 25. If this happens you can book an appointment. You don’t have to wait for your 25th birthday.

For England and Northern Ireland – you get an invite every 3 years if you are aged 25 to 49. After that, you get an invite every 5 years until age 64.

For Wales and Scotland – you get an invite every 5 years if you are aged 25 to 64.

If you are over 65 and have never had cervical screening, you can request this. You can do this via your GP or a clinic that provides cervical screening.

Cervical screening is a choice
It's your choice if you want to go for cervical screening. But cervical screening is one of the best ways to protect you from cervical cancer.

Getting support with cervical screening
You may need more help and support with cervical screening for many reasons. Speak to the GP surgery if you have questions about cervical screening invitations, results or any symptoms you have.

For furthermore information check: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/cervical-screening/

Health Promotion - Autism (Acceptance and Awareness)

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Men's health.

According to gender statistics released by NHS Digital in 2021on average:

· men’s life expectancy is 3.7 years less than females

· men go to the doctor less than women

· men are three times more likely to die from suicide, than women.

Men's health awareness month focuses on raising awareness about the health issues men face and promoting the importance of early detection, prevention, and treatment. It’s important for men to remember that taking care of their own health is just as important as taking care of others. Whether it’s mental health check-ins or getting those yearly screenings, a little effort now can make a huge difference.

Key health areas men should check out:

Prostate cancer: This one’s common, especially if you’re over 50. A quick test can put your mind at ease – or help catch it early when it’s most treatable.

Mental health: It’s time to end the stigma. Anxiety, depression, and stress affect men at high rates, and often men can be hesitant to seek support. A mental health check-in can change everything – don’t wait.

Heart health: Simple steps like cutting back on fried foods, getting more exercise, and managing stress can go a long way.

Testicular cancer: This one’s most common in younger men, ages 15–35. It’s a quick self-check that you can do in the shower.

Small steps to get started:

Book an appointment: If you can’t remember your last check-up, now’s the time.

Talk it out: If you’re struggling with stress or feeling low, talk to someone – friend, family, or a therapist. Visit How to find local mental health services - NHS to find local and national mental health support, or see your healthcare professionals, such as GPs and nurses.

Make time for fitness: Even 30 minutes of walking, lifting weights, or playing sports with friends can boost both physical and mental health.

Healthy Eating

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June Infertility Awareness Month

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PCMF Brunei is able to offer limited services to help couples with infertility. Please talk to one of our GPs for further information.

May Mental Health
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If you think you have any issues with mental health, please contact PCMF where we provide free and strictly confidential services, where we can direct you to the appropriate individual who will be able to help you.

PCMF Telephone Civilian Number - 3224893
Military - Ext 3226

March Autism Awareness Month
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February Fever in Children Awareness Month
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January Alcohol Awareness Month
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Click HERE to learn more about Dry January.

For any queries, please contact PCMF at Civ 322 4893 or Mil Ext 3226.