Dr Ilse Wydeman

Can a blood test screen for cancer?

Many people ask whether there is a simple blood test that can detect cancer early. The answer is: sometimes, but not always.
Blood tests can help identify signs that may suggest cancer, such as:

✔️ Abnormal blood cell counts
✔️ Elevated tumour markers in certain cancers
✔️ Signs of inflammation or organ dysfunction

However, no single blood test can reliably screen for all cancers. Depending on your age, s*x, family history, and risk factors, recommended screening tests may include:
🔹 Cervical screening (Pap smear)
🔹 Mammograms
🔹 Colon cancer screening
🔹 Prostate cancer testing
🔹 Skin examinations

📞 Speak to your GP about which screening tests are appropriate for you and whether any blood tests may be helpful as part of your assessment.

PrimaryCare StayHealthy

“Sorry doc… I Googled my symptoms.”

You’re allowed to. Really.

The internet isn’t the enemy — it’s just… a very noisy place. Some information is helpful, some is misleading, and some is downright anxiety-inducing.

That’s where I come in.

Think of me as your filter.
Bring what you’ve read, what you’re worried about, and what doesn’t make sense — and we’ll sort through it together.

No judgement. Just clarity. 💬

What you think being a GP is like vs what it really is like 👩‍⚕️👨‍⚕️

What people think:
• “It’s just coughs, colds & antibiotics”
• Quick 10-minute chats and you’re done
• Routine, predictable days
• Lots of coffee breaks ☕
• Referring everything “serious” away

What it’s actually like:
• Being a detective 🕵️‍♀️ — spotting the one serious diagnosis hidden among many mild symptoms
• Managing everything — from mental health to chronic disease to emergencies
• Patients who trust you with their most vulnerable moments
• Balancing medicine, admin, counselling, and sometimes… tech support 😅
• Carrying responsibility that doesn’t switch off at 5pm

The truth?
Being a GP isn’t “just basics” — it’s being the front line, the safety net, and often the constant in a patient’s life.

One practice. Every generation.
✔ Babies
✔ Kids
✔ Teens
✔ Adults
✔ Seniors
We provide comprehensive, evidence-based medical care for the whole family — all in one place.
Continuity of care matters. Let’s build your family’s health together.

To our valued patients — thank you for trusting us with your health.
To new patients — welcome, we’re glad you’re here.

We offer compassionate, thorough GP care for individuals and families, with a focus on continuity and genuine listening.

📍 675 Jacqueline Drive
📞 Appointments: https://mygc.co.za//external/diary/c745513d-ef6b-4cc1-a168-3412c9f2eae2

Merry Christmas! 🎄✨
We wish all our patients a joyful, peaceful festive season and a healthy start to the new year.
Thank you for your continued support and trust.

🎄 Festive Season Trading Hours 🎄

Please note that our practice will be closed from 22 December for the festive season and will reopen on 5 January.

We wish all our patients a safe, peaceful, and joyful holiday season. Thank you for your continued support, and we look forward to welcoming you back in the New Year! ✨

Closed: 22 December – 4 January
Reopening: 5 January

Warm festive wishes!

At our practice, we stand firmly against gender-based violence.

The 16 Days of Activism (25 Nov–10 Dec) remind us that every person deserves safety, dignity, and a voice.

As healthcare professionals, we see the impact of violence on bodies, minds, and families. And we are committed to providing a safe, confidential space where victims are heard, supported, and cared for.

Together, we can build a community where women and children are protected, believed, and empowered.