The expansion of the NHS's community liver health check programme has led to thousands more people being referred for potentially life-saving liver cancer checks.

The number of mobile liver scanning teams has almost doubled in the last two years, with 20 roaming teams now delivering scans in every region of England.

Since the programme began, 112,831 people have had a fibroscan of their liver, and almost 8,500 have been referred on for vital liver cancer checks.

The scans check for for cirrhosis or advanced fibrosis which increases the risk of liver cancer.

The programme targets at-risk groups including people with high levels of alcohol consumption, a current diagnosis or history of past viral hepatitis, or non-alcoholic liver disease.

NHS national cancer director, Professor Peter Johnson, said: “By reaching out into communities and making it easier for people to get checked, we will catch more cancers at an early stage, when the chances of successful treatment are much higher, and this can save lives.

“This programme has seen thousands more people referred for important further tests, allowing them to get vital treatment sooner alongside the support they need from the NHS to lead healthier lives.

“It’s a great example of the health service increasing its focus on prevention, as set out in the 10-year health plan.”

Public health and prevention minister, Ashley Dalton, said: “This expansion of NHS mobile liver scanning teams represents exactly the kind of preventative healthcare approach this government is championing through our 10 Year Health Plan.

“By taking these vital checks directly into communities – from GP surgeries to food banks, football matches to homeless shelters – we’re ensuring that no one is left behind when it comes to early cancer detection.

“If you have been identified as a person at risk of liver cancer, please speak to your GP to see if there is a mobile truck near you.”