Patient Information Point - WBCH

26/01/2026

Last week was Cervical Cancer Awareness week.

Every conversation about cervical cancer is a conversation about care; self-care, community care, and the power of early action.

Cervical cancer is largely preventable, yet thousands of people across the UK are still diagnosed each year. Regular screening, HPV vaccination, and open conversations about symptoms and stigma can save lives.

At My Cancer My Choices, we know that cancer doesn’t just affect the body — it impacts emotional and mental wellbeing too. For those living with or recovering from cervical cancer, our volunteers offer calm, care, and connection through evidence-informed complementary therapies and mindfulness-based support.

💚 We encourage everyone to:
✅ Book your cervical screening
✅ Talk about it, awareness breaks stigma.
✅ Support those living through treatment as empathy heals.

Together, we can create a future where no one feels alone in their journey. 🌿
Learn more about how we support people across Berkshire:

🔗 https://mycancermychoices.org/get-involved

12/01/2026

12/01/2026

Thyroid awareness month

12/01/2026

Currently there are snow and ice warnings across the country. ❄️
Falls are common, particularly in older people. If you or someone else falls, try to stay calm. Take a couple of minutes to check for any pain or injuries and see if you think you can get up.

If they need further help, call 111.

Call 999 if you or someone else has fallen and may have injured the head, back, neck or hip and
cannot get up.
If someone else has fallen, keep them comfortable and warm. Carefully help them get up if they can, but do not try to lift them yourself.

For more information, search ‘NHS trips and falls’.

12/01/2026

Men! Don't miss the early waring signs!

Dear Men,

Did you know that men in England die on average almost four years earlier than women? This gap isn’t because men are weaker or careless. Research shows it is mainly driven by preventable causes: heart disease, cancer, mental ill health and late help-seeking.
Many men grow up learning to “push through” discomfort, ignore symptoms, or avoid talking about how they feel. Over time, this can mean missing early warning signs that could have been addressed easily.

This is why we are running a Men’s Health project in West Berkshire: to make health information clearer, reduce stigma and help men take action earlier - without judgement or pressure.

If you want to be part of shaping better services for men locally, we want to hear from you. Please, fill our survey:
https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/MensHealthWestBerkshire/

12/01/2026

✨ Dry January: A Pause for Reflection & Resolution ✨

This month, we step back, take stock, and choose intentionally. Dry January isn’t just about giving up alcohol — it’s about listening to your body, noticing your habits, and connecting with what truly matters.

For communities and service providers alike, it’s a reminder that wellbeing is personal, social, and shared. Every small pause, reflection, or choice strengthens our health, relationships, and community.

Let’s celebrate connection, clarity, and choice — together. 💛

05/01/2026

Healthy living encompasses both physical and mental health, and involves making choices that promote overall well-being. Get inspired, even if you just change one thing to improve your health😊

05/01/2026

05/01/2026

Liver awareness month

The rise of liver disease in the UK has become an alarming public health concern, with 80% of cases attributed to alcohol misuse. The economic impact is equally staggering, with alcohol-related harm costing the NHS more than £3.5 billion annually. These statistics highlight an urgent need for effective interventions that not only reduce alcohol consumption but also improve abstinence to save lives. Love Your Liver Month is a vital opportunity to highlight the importance of liver health and address the leading causes of liver disease.

22/12/2025

Pharmacy opening times over the holiday period.