The NHS is encouraging the public to perform regular body checks for potential signs of cancer, ideally every three weeks.
Professor Peter Johnson, the cancer director at NHS England, advises that a prompt GP visit is essential if any unusual changes are detected, in order to rule out cancer. A survey of 2,000 British citizens found that many are not as diligent in monitoring their own bodies as they are with checking their financial accounts, weather forecasts, and sports results.
Johnson emphasizes the importance of recognizing one's normal bodily state and advocates for making self-examinations a part of one's routine, stating: "It is so important to know what is normal for you, although we all find a host of other things to think about rather than checking for any changes in our bodies. That's why I want to encourage everyone to make it a part of your routine - finding a way that works for you might just save your life.
"If you do spot something worrying, get in touch with your GP surgery, who can investigate for you. It's unlikely to be cancer, but if there is something wrong, the earlier it is found, the better the chance of treatment being successful."
A recent survey has revealed that heartburn and indigestion are the least recognised symptoms of cancer, with a staggering 79% of respondents failing to see persistent heartburn as a potential warning sign. Meanwhile, 55% overlooked the significance of blood in urine, even just once; almost half (49%) did not associate sudden weight loss with the disease, and over two-fifths (42%) failed to consider an unexplained lump as indicative of cancer.
Experts emphasise the importance of being vigilant for changes that could signal cancer, reports the Mirror.
Manveet Basra from Breast Cancer Now stressed: "Around two thirds of breast cancers in England are found when women detect a new or unusual breast change and get this checked out by a GP. That's why it's so important that every woman is supported and empowered to know the importance of regular breast checking and the many different signs and symptoms of breast cancer.
"The earlier breast cancer is diagnosed, the better the chance of successful treatment, and lives being saved from the disease. With our latest research finding that over 2 in 5 women in the UK aren't regularly checking their breasts, we want to help get it back on their agenda. Checking your breasts only takes a few minutes. And there's no right way to check, as long as you're doing it regularly. Check your whole breast area, armpits and up to your collarbone. Remember to get any new or unusual breast changes checked by a GP."
As part of its campaign to encourage body awareness and the early detection of cancer, the NHS has been collaborating with organisations including top supermarkets and leisure centres since 2023. Essential household products such as toilet paper, toothpaste, and underwear have hit the shelves emblazoned with messages about cancer.
Reminders about the importance of spotting cancer signs early can now be found in gym lavatories and on mirrors, as well as on urinal mats in gents' toilets nationwide.
Owen Carter, National Clinical Adviser at Macmillan Cancer Support, emphasised: "Getting signs and symptoms checked by a GP is crucial if you may be concerned about changes in your body. It is important to remember that symptoms do not always mean you have cancer, but it's good to get them checked out. We know that the earlier cancer is detected and treated, the better the outcomes are."
A recent survey by the NHS involving 2,000 Britons revealed a concerning statistic: only four in ten people pay attention to bodily changes with the recommended frequency of once every three weeks, a practice NHS leaders deem essential for the early identification of potential cancer indicators.
In stark contrast, the survey also showed that 80% of individuals check their bank balances regularly, 70% keep an eye on the weather, and 42% are up-to-date with sports results.
Rob McPherson, an amateur footballer and bowel cancer survivor from Manchester, has opened up about the stomach pains, diarrhoea, and nausea that led to his diagnosis and treatment in 2017. Just months after, he returned to the beautiful game with a mission to urge others to seek medical advice if something doesn't feel quite right.
Rob emphasised, "As a bowel cancer survivor, I would encourage everyone to contact your GP if you notice any unusual changes to your body – for me, it was having persistent stomach troubles for well over three weeks."
He went on to share his personal experience, stating, "My story shows that cancer can affect anyone no matter how active you are, and you should never put off getting checked if you feel that something isn't right. Thanks to the brilliant care I received from the NHS, I am now cancer-free and able to do the things I love like playing football and spending time with my partner, family, and friends. Remember, you know your body best, so pay attention to any warning signs and get checked as soon as possible if you're concerned."
Sam Ritchie, an A&E operations manager and sole parent to two children, became alert to an unusual pink rash on her breast during the autumn of 2023. With instincts telling her that it wasn't normal, Sam sought advice from her GP who swiftly referred her to a specialist one-stop-breast clinic.
At this clinic, she was promptly informed of her scan outcomes, which detected a lump behind her nipple. Diagnosed in October 2023 with stage three breast cancer, Sam quickly began chemotherapy and by June had surgery to remove the tumour. In July, she joyfully received the 'all clear'.
In a statement, Sam remarked: "Being diagnosed with breast cancer came as a huge shock to me. However, I am so glad I listened to my body when I felt something wasn't right and acted quickly. I'd urge everyone to not put off getting help if something in your body doesn't feel right and to contact your GP practice as soon as possible. Don't be afraid to come forward and get the help you need."
Recent statistics released last week indicate that over four fifths of individuals received either the all clear or a definitive cancer diagnosis within four weeks following an urgent cancer referral – marking the highest rate seen thus far.
Surveillance figures for 13 of the most prevalent cancers, including breast, prostate, and lung cancer, suggest that close to three out of five patients are now identified at stages one or two, a point when the disease is more manageable and the prospects of survival are considerably better.
If you're feeling anxious while waiting for tests, or simply need someone to chat with, don't hesitate to reach out to the Macmillan Support Line. It's a free service and can be reached at 0808 808 00 00.
