A survey carried out by Cancer Research UK and Cardiff University has concluded that, during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, almost half of people with potential cancer symptoms did not contact their GP. Some of the symptoms that were left unchecked included coughing up blood, lumps and changes to the appearance of moles that had emerged.
Previous NHS figures had shown a fall in referrals to cancer services in spring 2020. However, this study, of almost 8,000 people has calculated the fall in people contacting their GP in the first place.
The team that carried out the study have said that their work has raised concerns that people could be diagnosed later when they are less likely to be treated successfully and recover. The team found that of the 3,025 people who said they had experienced at least one symptom of cancer, which could be a warning sign of cancer, 45% did not seek help. They also found that 31% did not seek help after coughing up blood; 41% did not seek help for an unexplained lump or swelling and 59% did not seek help after noticing changes to the appearance of a mole.
The Cardiff University and Cancer Research team have said that they plan to run another survey to see whether people’s likelihood to contact their GP changed in the later part of 2020. Professor Kate Brain who led the study has said that she was concerned that the message during the first lockdown of protecting the NHS might have left the public might thinking “cancer can wait”. She has also called for a national campaign to encourage people to contact their GPs with urgent issues.
Current Affairs Correspondent | My name is Oliver Down I am 22, and a staunch brexiteer. I am a Bristolian lad who studied politics in Leicester. I believe in free speech and accurate journalism and I won’t be afraid to give you “the other side” of the story!
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