Humber and North Yorkshire Cancer Alliance is setting out its stall for encouraging earlier diagnosis of cancer, as it starts a tour of the region to urge people aged 50 and over to be more vigilant about their bodies.
Throughout September, the Cancer Alliance will be visiting community venues across Humber and North Yorkshire, such as supermarkets and shopping centres, to speak with members of the public about the importance of being able to spot any symptoms of cancer early.
Anyone experiencing potential symptoms of cancer, such as a cough for three weeks or more, unexplained weight loss, blood in your poo, or an unexplained lump, will then be encouraged to contact their GP practice.
The plea comes as NHS England launches a Help Us Help You campaign which aims to address the barriers to people coming forwards with a symptom of cancer early. The campaign is also reassuring people that getting tested for cancer could help to put their mind at rest. More than 90% of people in Humber and North Yorkshire who were referred for urgent tests for cancer in 2021/22 found out they did not have cancer.
Simon Middleton, who is 50 years old and lives in York, had his mind put at ease after potential symptoms of prostate cancer prompted him to contact his GP practice. Simon said: “I started to notice I was frequently getting up during the night needing to go to the toilet, which was unusual for me.
Simon was concerned about having cancer symptoms
“After speaking with a colleague who was recently diagnosed with prostate cancer about his symptoms, I decided to book in with my GP and became nervous about what they might find.
“I was quickly given an appointment and went on to have blood and urine tests. My prostate was also checked. Thankfully, all was clear and my GP recommended swapping caffeine for decaf, which made a huge difference.
“I am glad I did not let my fear of having cancer stop me from getting checked. The process was much simpler than I thought it would be and having peace of mind was well worth it.”
Dr Dan Cottingham, Cancer Research UK GP Lead for Humber and North Yorkshire Cancer Alliance, said: “As we continue to work towards the NHS Long Term Plan ambition of diagnosing 75% of cancers at stage one or two by 2028, the Cancer Alliance is looking forward to speaking with members of the public about the importance of getting to know yourself.
“Volunteers at all of our upcoming engagement stands have received free Cancer Champions training, meaning they are aware of the early symptoms of cancer and can talk to people about the importance of early diagnosis.
“I would encourage anyone experiencing potential symptoms of cancer to contact their GP practice as soon as possible. If it is cancer, finding it early could help ensure treatment is simpler and more successful. Those who are not diagnosed with cancer, could have their minds put at rest sooner.”
A number of Humber and North Yorkshire Cancer Alliance engagement events are scheduled to take place locally in September:
- Hull (North Point Shopping Centre) – Tuesday, 5th September 2023
- Scunthorpe (Morrisons) – Wednesday, 13th September 2023
- Grimsby (ASDA) – Wednesday, 20th September 2023
- York (The Artists Garden) – Sunday, 24th September 2023
- Scarborough (Morrisons) – Monday, 25th September 2023
- Bridlington (The Promenade Shopping Centre) – Wednesday, 27th September 2023
For more information visit https://hnycanceralliance.org.uk.
