Isle Of Wight NHS Trust Urges Islanders To Get Checked If Showing Signs Of Cancer

Wednesday, 23 December 2020 06:00

By Iona Stewart-Richardson @IslandIona

The Isle of Wight NHS Trust is urging Islanders to get in contact with their GP if they are showing signs of cancer - after the Trust saw a 25% drop in referrals to cancer services.

Both Dematology (skin) and Urology Cancer services are seeing considerably fewer referrals this year compared to the same time 12 months ago. Treatment is often more effective when cancer isdiagnosed at an early stage, therefore it is important that those with concerning symptoms are identified as soon as possible.

The Trust wants everyone to continue to access health services now and throughout the winter and be reassured that all the relevant safety and infection control measures are in place to keep people safe.

Anne Snow, Consultant Nurse and Lead Clinician for Cancer services said:

“We have seen a worrying drop in the number of people being referred to us for cancer diagnosis and treatment. If you have symptoms that are worrying you, it is vital that you get it touch with your GP practice straight away, don’t put it off because it is crucial that we identify potential cancers as soon as possible.

“We understand people may be worried about attending appointments given the current pandemic or feel they may be a burden to the services but please be assured that you are not and we have lots of measures in place to keep our patients safe.

“Please don’t be afraid to ask for help and if you are worried please do talk about your concerns with family members or friends”

The public should take particular notice of persistent and unexplained symptoms such as:

A changes in bowel habits
Blood in pee, blood in your poo or coughing up blood
Unexplained pain
Lumps, bumps or swelling
Bloating for 3 weeks or more
Extreme tiredness
Unexplained weight loss
A cough lasting over 3 weeks, chest pain or breathlessness
Moles that have changed shape, colour, grows or starts itching, flaking or bleeding

Dr David Isaac, Macmillian GP said:

”It’s important to be aware of any unexplained changes to your body such as blood in your pee, a lump, persistent bloating or pain that does not go away. It is important to speak to your GP so they can investigate and refer you to a specialist if needed.

"Finding cancer early means it’s easier to treat. I urge the public not to be afraid of contacting their GP practices, we are here and we want to help”

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Isle Of Wight NHS Trust Urges Islanders To Get Checked If Showing Signs Of Cancer

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