As the NHS launches a new phase of its campaign to detect cancer earlier for patients – when it’s easier to treat, people in the North East and Yorkshire are being reminded to contact their GP practice if something in their body doesn’t feel right.

The Help Us, Help You campaign encourages people who have noticed something in their body that doesn’t feel right, and are worried it could be cancer, to contact their GP practice.

Dr Jonathan Slade, Medical Director (System Improvement and Professional Standards) for the NHS North East and Yorkshire region, says: “The vast majority of people who are referred for tests by their GP do not have cancer. However, we know that if you do have cancer, finding out sooner is always better as we can cure many common cancers if diagnosed early on. Whatever the result, the NHS is here for you.”

New survey data published alongside the campaign shows that while the majority of people knew catching cancer earlier makes it more treatable, over two-fifths (42%) said they would ignore symptoms, wait to see if anything changed, look for answers online or speak to family and friends before seeing their GP. While 36% of people said finding out bad news was what they feared most about cancer tests – almost 80% agreed that catching cancer early makes it more treatable.

Dr Slade added: “Don’t let the thought of cancer play on your mind. If something in your body doesn’t feel right, talk to your GP. Most people who go for tests find out it’s not cancer and finding out sooner is always better.”