The new campaign, which is set to run across TV, radio and social media from tomorrow (Wednesday 2nd March), will focus on conversations around the fear that surrounds cancer.
Figures showing cancer diagnoses during the height of the pandemic have been drastically low but updated figures now show that the NHS have increased their cancer checks by over half a million between December 2020 and December 2021.
New research has discovered that six in 10 people say their biggest health fear is a cancer diagnosis, coming above other illnesses such as heart disease and Covid.
Sixty-three percent said that dying was their greatest cancer fear and a further third worried about becoming a burden to friends and family.
Out of all the respondents, two fifths said they would ignore cancer symptoms and wait to see if they passed or search them online before consulting their GP.
The campaign has been launched by NHS Chief Executive, Amanda Pritchard and aims to encourage people to come forward for vital checks and not postpone contacting their GP.
Amanda Pritchard, said: “We know that the prospect of a cancer diagnosis can be daunting for people and that is exactly why we are launching this potentially lifesaving campaign – we want to allay people’s fear about cancer and encourage them to get checked without delay.
“We know that many people don’t want to burden or bother anyone with their health concerns, but we would always prefer to see you sooner with a cancer that is easier to treat, than later with one that isn’t.
“NHS staff have pulled out all the stops to ensure cancer was prioritised throughout the pandemic with over half a million people starting treatment over the last two years and record numbers of people now being referred for checks and tests.
“So, the NHS is here for you – don’t let cancer play on your mind – get checked without delay”.
The NHS are encouraging people to contact their GP if they are experiencing any of the following:
- Stomach discomfort lasting over three weeks
- Blood in urine
- Unexplained bleeding
- Unexplained pain
- Lumps
- A cough lasting over three weeks (not Covid related)
NHS cancer director, Dame Cally Palmer, said: “Despite cancer remaining a priority during the pandemic, with referrals at record levels for more than 10 months and more than half a million people starting treatment in the last two years, we have seen fewer people than expected come forward for lifesaving checks which is why were are launching this campaign – the first of its kind – that looks to tackle people’s worries head on and support earlier diagnosis”.
“The fear of cancer is completely understandable but please don’t let worries and concerns about treatment or potentially bad news prevent you from coming forward – and help us to help you”.
