Cancer is one of the biggest killers in the UK. One in two people born in the UK after 1960 will be diagnosed with some form of cancer during their lifetime. Anyone can develop cancer, but it becomes more common as we get older.
Your risk of developing cancer depends on many factors, including age, genetics and lifestyle, but in some cases, the exact cause is difficult to determine. However, it is well known that two in five cancer cases in the UK each year are preventable and are linked to lifestyle factors.
Spotting cancer early will improve your survival rate, so it’s important that you recognise the signs and act. One of the best things that you can do is remember to go along for screening when you are recalled by your GP practice – it is one of the most effective ways to identify any early signs of cancer.
Learn more about the types of screening that are offered via the NHS.
What are the signs of cancer?
There are some common signs and symptoms of cancer that you can look out for, such as unusual lumps and swelling, changes in your body’s habits and unexplained weight loss.
In the below videos, local doctors from across mid and south Essex talk you through how to recognise and identify the signs and symptoms of some of the most common cancers.
Having symptoms does not mean that you have cancer. However, it is important to see your GP as soon as possible if you have any symptoms. If cancer is diagnosed early, your chances of survival are much better than if you are diagnosed late.
Breast cancer
Early diagnosis of breast cancer increases your chances of successful treatment. In this video, Dr Riya Amin talks about the ABCD of breast cancer symptoms and what you should be looking out for. If you notice anything different or unusual in your breasts, then get it checked. Remember to regularly check your breasts for any changes.
Bladder and kidney cancer
Finding bladder and kidney cancer early increases your chances of successful treatment. Dr Andrea Oustayiannis outlines the ABCD of bladder and kidney cancer symptoms, and what you should look out for. The most common sign of both bladder and kidney cancer is blood in your pee.
Some symptoms may be caused by other conditions such as an infection or bladder or kidney stones, all of which may need treatment.
Bowel cancer
When bowel cancer is diagnosed early, your chances of successful treatment are much higher. In this video, Dr Deepak Kumar talks about the ABCD of bowel cancer symptoms and what you should be looking out for. If you’re worried about any symptoms, it’s really important that you speak to your GP as early as possible.
If you’re eligible, it’s important that you take part in the bowel cancer screening programme regularly.
Gynaecological cancer including cervical and ovarian
Diagnosing gynaecological cancers (such as cervical and ovarian cancer) early significantly improves chances of successful treatment. Liza Benson, a lead Practice Nurse, talks about the ABCD of cervical and ovarian cancer symptoms and key signs to look out for.
Very early stage cervical cancer may not cause any symptoms, so it’s important that you attend regular cervical screening (or smear test) appointments. There is more information about what is involved during a cervical screening appointment below in the ‘cancer screening’ section.
Lung cancer
Early diagnosis of lung cancer increases your chances of successful treatment. Clinical Pharmacist, Michael Thomas talks about the ABCD of lung cancer symptoms and key signs and symptoms to look out for. Don’t hesitate to speak to your GP if you notice something unusual for you.
Prostate and testicular cancer
Early detection of prostate and testicular cancers increases your chances of successful treatment. In this video with Dr Mark Metcalfe talks about the the ABCD of prostate and testicular cancer symptoms and what you should be looking out for. If you notice any symptoms then get it checked.SHOW LESS
Skin cancer
When skin cancer is diagnosed early, your chances of successful treatment increase. In this video with Dr Simren Kumar talks about the the ABCD of skin cancer symptoms and what you should be looking out for. If you notice any symptoms then get it checked.
Two week wait for referrals
If a GP suspects you may have cancer, they can refer you for urgent tests which should be carried out within two weeks.
Your urgent suspected cancer referral explainedCampaign toolkit
A range of resources have been developed for partner and community organisations to use to help promote the campaign. To access the resources, please email our communications and engagement team.