Get yourself checked: Don’t ignore signs of cancer, NHS chief urges | cancer

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People with symptoms of cancer are being urged to come forward amid fears that tens of thousands are “risking their lives” because they do not want to burden the service.

The new chief executive of NHS England is encouraging anyone with possible signs of cancer to visit their GP and have what she said could be a life-saving check-up.

Amanda Pritchard made the appeal ahead of the launch of the NHS England and Public Health England campaign on Monday with the aim of helping doctors diagnose the disease sooner.

The new chief executive of the NHS, Amanda Pritchard. Photo: Yui Mok/PA

Campaign ads on TV, online, and on social media will feature people explaining that symptoms such as a prolonged upset stomach or persistent cough could be a sign of cancer.

NHS England said tens of thousands of people may still be putting off seeking help because they do not want to put additional pressure on GP surgeries and hospitals brought on by Covid.

“We know that thousands of people may be risking their lives by delaying medical care for symptoms of cancer,” Pritchard said.

This initiative is the latest phase in the “Help Us, Help You” campaign to persuade people who may be ill to seek medical advice if they have a serious problem.

It targets those who may have lung and abdominal cancers – which include cancers of the throat, intestines and stomach – as well as urinary tract cancers that affect the kidneys, prostate and bladder.

“It is extremely important for people to learn about common symptoms that can indicate a cancer diagnosis. It is critical that they take action by making an appointment with their GP which can ultimately save their lives,” Pritchard added.

“Please don’t be late and come forward to lose yourself. We would rather see you sooner when any cancer would be easier to treat.”

Cancer experts have expressed concern that the widespread suspension of cancer screening, diagnosis and treatment on the NHS during the pandemic could lead to thousands of deaths.

NHS chiefs are concerned about survey results showing widespread ignorance of some of the symptoms of cancer. Nearly two out of three people (63%) did not recognize abdominal discomfort for three weeks or more as a possible sign of cancer, while two in five did not know that a lingering cough could indicate the presence of lung cancer.

Professor Peter Johnson, National Medical Director for Cancer at NHS England said: “Most symptoms will not be from cancer, but if they are, seeing someone quickly will give you the best chance of getting diagnosed at an early stage when cancer is easier to treat.”

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