PEOPLE are being urged by singer Linda Nolan and presenter Bill Turnbull – both cancer sufferers – not to delay seeking help if they have symptoms that may require further medical investigation.
And their campaign is being backed by health experts in Redditch and Bromsgrove who say hospital services have put infection prevention measures in place to ensure patients can safely access services.
As a result people are being encouraged to seek help for any cancer symptoms they feel they have.
Dr Edwina Gallagher, Macmillan Cancer GP facilitator said: “If you notice a change which isn’t normal for you or have a symptom that doesn’t settle it may be important to arrange further investigations to exclude serious problems such as cancer.
“Some of the problems that you should contact your GP about include the sudden appearance of a lump, blood in your urine or a change to your usual bowel habits.
“The symptom might not be due to serious illness and your GP may be able to easily reassure you. If it is cancer or another serious problem, the earlier it’s picked up the higher the chance of successful treatment.
“When you arrange an appointment with your GP they will initially telephone you to discuss the problem, and then bring you in to be examined or have blood tests if needed. If necessary they will refer you to the hospital.”
Dr Carl Ellson, GP and cancer lead for the local Clinical Commissioning Group added: “There is no reason to delay getting cancer checks so we can ensure people get treatment quickly and safely.
“Waiting to get help could have serious consequences for patients and put a greater burden on the NHS.”
Patients are reminded that first contact should always be made by telephone or online, at which point an appointment can be offered.
For more on cancer signs visit: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/cancer/symptoms/
