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Shock cancer stats for ‘busy’ Leightonians
Dermatology services are being reviewed
ALMOST a fifth of Leighton residents could be missing vital early signs of cancer because they are ‘too busy to make the time’ for a trip to the doctors.
The shocking findings came to light as part of research conducted by the NHS Anglia Cancer Network for their Be Clear on Cancer campaign.
The survey, which covered 3,779 people from Bedfordshire and surrounding counties, asked why people might put off making an appointment to see their doctor to discuss possible cancer symptoms – unearthing alarming results.
The most common excuse for avoiding the worthwhile trip was ‘worry about what the GP might find’, while 20 per cent cited embarrassment as their motive for dodging the doctor.
Another common reason was the fear that they would be ‘wasting the doctor’s time.’
On the plus side, the period of time people take to make the trip was more encouraging with 46 per cent of residents saying they would approach their GP within three days if they discover cancer-like symptoms.
Meanwhile, one in five would hold off for two weeks or more and three per cent said that they’d never visit their doctor.
Staff at the Iain Rennie Hospice at Home charity, which works with cancer patients throughout Leighton, Herts and Bucks, said the statistics serve as a timely reminder of the importance of staying alert.
Director of Nursing Sue Varvel told the LBO: “The sooner you spot and act upon early signs of cancer, or even pre-cancer changes, the better. Survival rates are increased with early diagnosis, and you have a wider range of treatment options open to you.”
The symptoms for cancer vary depending on its location but blood in the stool, thickening of the breast or a persistent cough can all be signs of cancer in the bowels, breasts and lungs respectively.
Discussing the findings, Dr Rory Harvey, Medical Director at the Cancer Network, said: “Cancer touches most of us during our lifetime – so I can understand why some people might be scared or have other reasons for not visiting their GP.
“But I can’t stress enough how important it is for anyone with concerns about possible cancer symptoms to contact their doctor at the earliest opportunity – if in doubt, check it out.”
For more information visit www.nhs.uk/cancer
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Weather for Leighton Buzzard
Wednesday 23 May 2012
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Temperature: 11 C to 23 C
Wind Speed: 9 mph
Wind direction: North
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