New GP Dr Sarah James joins the team
We are delighted to announce that Dr. James has joined our team at Spinney Brook Medical Centre as a General Practitioner. Dr. James brings a wealth of experience and a passion for patient care, and we are thrilled to have them on board.
Please join us in extending a warm welcome to Dr. James. We are confident that they will make a significant contribution to our team and provide excellent care to our patients.
Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, 1st–31st March
Feeling bloated? Need to wee more? Feeling full? Unexplained tummy pain? Raising awareness of ovarian cancer is vital in improving early diagnosis. Currently, just one in five women can name bloating as a symptom of ovarian cancer.
Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month highlights the importance of picking up on early changes. Two-thirds of women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer too late, when the cancer is harder to treat. We need to change that! If you have any of these ongoing symptoms, make an appointment with your GP.
#EarlyDiagnosisSavesLives
This video explains more:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D5z1JUnRSe4
Endometriosis Awareness Month, 1st–31st March
Endometriosis occurs when cells similar to the ones in the lining of the womb (uterus) are found elsewhere in the body. It can have a significant impact on the sufferer’s life from pain and anxiety to infertility and debilitating fatigue. Support and diagnosis are key to improving quality of life
For Endometriosis Action Month 2025, the theme is ‘endometriosis explained’. It’s vital that endometriosis is better understood by the general public and better explained to patients by healthcare practitioners. In the UK, endometriosis affects one in ten women and those assigned female at birth, yet so many are still unaware of the condition and its impact.
Find out more here:
https://www.endometriosis-uk.org/what-is-endometriosis
No Smoking Day, 12th March
Did you know, by quitting smoking, you could save around £2,500 per year? Not only will your wallet benefit, but you’ll notice almost immediate improvements in your health.
Make time to take back your life this No Smoking Day. Quitting smoking is the best thing you can do and it’s never too late to give it a try. Even if you’ve tried before, No Smoking Day is a great chance for a fresh start. Support is vital in helping you succeed and in maintaining a smoke-free future.
Managing cravings and coping with triggers can help avoid relapsing. Cravings can be triggered by stress, habits and lifestyle reminders. Being aware of your triggers helps you manage cravings when they strike.
https://www.nhs.uk/better-health/quit-smoking/
https://www.nhs.uk/better-health/qu...nderstand-your-smoking-triggers-and-cravings/
World Kidney Day, 13th March
World Kidney Day is an annual campaign to help raise awareness of kidneys and what can happen when they don’t work properly. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is estimated to affect approximately 850 million people worldwide and by detecting changes early, there is a greater chance of finding a successful treatment.
It’s very common for early kidney disease to show no symptoms. Only as it progresses will you start to see changes such as increased urination, swollen feet and hands, and general fatigue.
If you take long-term medication, have diabetes, or CKD runs in your family, it’s important to keep an eye on your kidney health.
#AreYourKidneysOK #WorldKidneyDay
https://www.worldkidneyday.org/2025-campaign/
Young Carers Action Day, 13th March
Are you, or is someone you know, a young carer?
Young Carers Action Day is celebrated every year, shining a spotlight on the invaluable contributions and challenges faced by young carers. This year’s theme is ‘give me a break’, focusing on the importance of rest and respite for young carers. We also call on schools and employers to provide better support, helping carers to balance their responsibilities and achieve their full potential.
Young carers face a huge array of challenges because of their caring role. Many are disadvantaged across multiple aspects of their lives, including mental and physical health, finances, education and employment.
https://carers.org/getting-support-...if-you-are-a-young-carer-or-young-adult-carer
For local resources visit Young Carers | Home | Northamptonshire Carers Association
World Sleep Day, 14th March
This World Sleep Day, we’re raising awareness to ‘make sleep health a priority’. It’s really important to make sure you get enough sleep, but this can prove difficult for some people. Sleep helps to support memory and learning, it promotes brain function and helps immunity. In fact, sleep is just as important as nutrition and exercise!
#WorldSleepDay
If you’re having difficulty sleeping, have a look at these ideas:
- Increase bright light exposure during the day
- Reduce blue light exposure at night
- Cut your caffeine intake, particularly later in the day
- Reduce daytime naps
- Check your bedroom’s noise levels, temperature and ventilation
- Limit alcohol in the hour before bed
- Practice relaxation
https://www.nhs.uk/every-mind-matte...s/how-to-fall-asleep-faster-and-sleep-better/
#WorldSleepDay
World Oral Health Day, 20th March
On World Oral Health Day 2025, we’re raising awareness that ‘a happy mouth is... a happy mind’.
Oral diseases lead to pain and discomfort, social isolation and loss of self-confidence, and they’re often linked to other serious health issues. However, most oral health conditions are largely preventable and can be treated in their early stages.
In order to maintain your oral health, follow these simple tips:
- Brush your teeth twice a day
- Use a fluoride toothpaste
- Floss daily
- Eat a balanced diet and limit sugary drinks
- Avoid smoking
- Regularly visit your dentist
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and replace it every few months
Find out more here:
https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/healthy-teeth-and-gums/take-care-of-your-teeth-and-gums/
https://youtu.be/ZEjiMLzumr0
International Trans Day of Visibility, 31st March
Trans Day of Visibility (TDOV) marks a time to celebrate trans and non-binary people, and to raise awareness of the discrimination faced by the community worldwide.
Visibility is crucial for trans individuals to ensure they are supported and do not feel lost or alone, so this day is celebrated every March. It provides an opportunity for trans and non-binary people to feel seen through positive and realistic representation – and for allies to share and learn more.
Discover how to ask about someone’s pronouns, how to support a friend if they come out as trans, and how to show your support for trans people in this useful guide: https://lgbt.foundation/help/a-guide-to-being-a-trans-ally/
Breast screening
Had an invite for breast screening? Make sure you mark the date in your diary!
Breast screening uses a test called mammography which involves taking X-rays of the breasts. Screening can help to find breast cancers early and these cancers are usually easier to treat than larger ones.
It’s important to remember that screening won’t prevent you from getting breast cancer but it aims to find early breast cancers.
Regular breast screening is one of the best ways to spot a cancer that’s too small to feel or see yourself. It saves around 1,300 lives each year in the UK!
Don’t ignore your invite when it lands on your doorstep!
https://campaignresources.dhsc.gov....help-you-cancer/breast-screening-saves-lives/
Building the NHS of the future
Help build a health service for your future and the future of your family.
A recent report found that the NHS was in a critical state, and the Government wants to hear the public’s views on how the NHS can adapt to the changing demands of today.
Make sure you give your views and opinions on the health service, its future and the 10-Year Plan for Health. Don’t miss your chance to shape the future of the NHS.
https://campaignresources.dhsc.gov.uk/campaigns/change-nhs/