Spot potential cancer signs – and get checked
NHS maNagerS urge do Not delay, we are opeN aNd ready
PEOPLE with potential cancer symptoms are being encouraged to get checks.
The campaign, backed by the NHS in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland (LLR), highlights the symptoms of lung, abdominal and urological cancers. Patients with any of the symptoms are urged to get them checked by their GP without delay.
Anyone who has had a persistent cough or tummy troubles such as discomfort or diarrhoea for three weeks or more, or seen blood in their urine – even once – should contact their GP practice.
NHS England chief executive, Amanda Pritchard, launched the campaign this week, saying the NHS is open and ready to treat people.
More than 3,000 people in LLR were diagnosed with lung, abdominal or urological cancers in 2018.
But research shows three in five people are concerned about burdening the NHS and half saying they would delay seeking medical advice.
Dr Paul Danaher, lead GP for cancer in Leicester, said: “We know thousands of people could be risking their lives by delaying medical attention for cancer symptoms.
“We are open and ready to treat people with potential cancer symptoms.
“This campaign will remind people of the signs and symptoms to look out for and encourage them to get checked if something isn’t quite right.
“The good news is that cancer survival is improving and has doubled in the past 40 years in the UK, but it’s easier to treat if it’s diagnosed at an early stage.
“In the East Midlands in 2018, fewer than three in 10 cancers of the lung, stomach, pancreas and oesophagus were diagnosed early, at stage one or two. That’s why this campaign is so important.”
Despite lung, abdominal and urological cancers accounting for 1,612 cancer deaths in LLR in 2018, new figures from the NHS show that many people are unaware of common warning signs – which could prevent them seeking help.
Three in five people said they did not recognise discomfort in the abdominal area for three weeks or more as an indication of cancer.
Two in five people did not recognise that a persistent cough for more than three weeks could be a sign of lung cancer – and the symptom could easily be confused with Covid-19.
Nationally, about 750,000 people were checked for cancer in June, the second highest number on record, and treatment numbers have been back at usual levels since March.
More than 27,000 people started treatment for cancer in June, a 42 per cent increase on the same time last year.
Dr Danaher said: “Thanks to the hard work of NHS staff, we are back on track with cancer referrals, diagnosis and treatment so, whether you or a loved one has a routine appointment, or a potential cancer symptom, please don’t delay and come forward to get yourself checked.
“We would rather see you sooner when any cancer would be easier to treat and more likely to be cured.”
“It’s incredibly important people recognise the common symptoms that can signal a cancer diagnosis – and it’s vital they take action by making an appointment with their GP, that could ultimately save their life.”