Leeds residents are being reminded that the NHS is still here for them when they need it, and to telephone their GP if they have signs and symptoms of cancer.
Dr Sarah Forbes, GP in Leeds and Clinical Lead for Cancer at NHS Leeds Clinical Commissioning Group, said:
“In Leeds we’ve seen a decrease in the number of people contacting their GP with cancer symptoms. People may delay this because of the coronavirus pandemic; however, an early diagnosis and treatment of cancer is extremely vital. If you’re asked to go the hospital, you’ll be seen in safe and low risk environment.
“If you notice any changes to your body’s normal processes or unusual, unexplained symptoms can sometimes be an early sign of cancer. I would strongly urge you to ring your GP practice as soon as possible and your GP will be able to triage you over the telephone. Your GP will support you in the next steps with an urgent referral, so please don’t delay getting the help you need.”
The main symptoms to look out and act upon for are:
- Lump in breast
- Changes in bowel habits
- Blood in your pee or poo
- Unexplained weight loss
- Moles that appear to change
- Cough that you’ve had for three weeks or more
Help the local NHS by backing ‘Your NHS is still here for you’ campaign (www.leedsccg.nhs.uk/HereForYou), this reminds local people to seek medical care when they need it, particularly for life changing and life threatening illnesses. Support the campaign on social media by following @NHSLeeds on Twitter, Facebook.com/nhsleeds or nhsleeds on Instagram to share the #NHSHereForYou messages.
This post is based on a press release issued by NHS Leeds
