Free Heartburn Health Checks for those at higher risk of oesophageal cancer
Find out if you meet the criteria for this potentially life-saving test, to detect early signs of cancer.
The NHS in Greater Manchester is offering a limited number of Heartburn Health Checks by appointment only for people who are at higher risk of developing oesophageal cancer.
The Heartburn Health Check van – part of Greater Manchester Cancer Alliance’s ‘This Van Can’ initiative – will see a mobile unit travel around all 10-boroughs of Greater Manchester, in March, April and May 2025, starting in Bolton.
The mobile clinic will be offering ‘Pill on a String’ tests to people aged 55 to 65 with a history of chronic acid reflux who are identified and sent an invite by their GP.
The test involves swallowing a small, capsule-shaped device which contains a tiny sponge. The sponge collects cell samples of the food pipe (oesophagus) for analysis when being extracted via a string which remains attached to the sponge. See video.
In a recent survey of patients who had the ‘Pill on a String’ test, they often said they would “recommend the test to a friend or family member”, and 94% of patients reported experiencing only mild or no discomfort at all.
Amanda Pritchard, NHS Chief Executive, said: “Thousands of people have now benefitted from this incredibly efficient test on the NHS – while the sponge on a string is small in size, it can make a big difference for patients – they can conveniently fit the test into their day and it can often replace the need for an endoscopy while also helping to reduce waiting lists by freeing up staff and resources.”
A simple step-by-step process to check your eligibility and book the test.
Am I eligible?
Take the short questionnaire to find out if you are suitable for a test
Book your appointment
Choose one of our locations across Greater Manchester.
You will need your NHS number to book an appointment.
Attend for the health check
Visit our friendly mobile clinic for a quick, simple test to check for early signs of cancer.