Don’t carry the worry of cancer with you, if something in your body doesn’t feel right, contact your GP practice.

We know that many people worry about cancer but sometimes put off getting checked because they hope the symptoms will go away or think they will get bad news. But finding cancer early makes it more treatable and can save lives.

It’s important that if you are worried about a symptom that could be cancer, to contact your GP practice. To rule out cancer, your GP may refer you for tests. Whatever the result, your NHS is here for you. Until you find out, you can’t rule it out. 

Contact your GP practice if something in your body doesn’t feel right or you experience any of the symptoms below.

• Signs and symptoms vary, and some can be harder to notice, such as:

• Breathlessness

• Frequent infections

• Unexplained night sweats

• Unexplained weight loss

• Unexpected or unexplained bruising

• For three weeks or more:

• A cough or a change in an existing cough

• Tummy trouble, such as discomfort or diarrhoea

• Feeling tired and unwell and not sure why

• Heartburn or indigestion

• Unusual, pale or greasy poo

Other signs and symptoms include:

• Unexplained pain or discomfort for three weeks or more

• An unexplained lump anywhere on the body

• Unexpected or unexplained bleeding (such as bleeding from your bottom, or blood when youcough or in your vomit)

• Blood in your poo

• Blood in your pee - even just once

• For more information on cancer signs and symptoms go to nhs.uk/cancersymptoms

• It’s probably nothing serious, but finding cancer early makes it more treatable and can save lives. If your GP suspects cancer, they'll refer you for further tests

A new NHS roadshow is rolling into town – and it could help save lives.

We’re delighted to announce that the latest “This Van Can” is back on the road. This time it’s focusing on the generic signs and symptoms of cancer / red flags, as well as busting some cancer myths. It’s accompanied by a sister campaign “Get Cancer Clever” which uses the same messaging. We want as many residents of Greater Manchester as possible to know what to look out for, with the ambition that more cancers are diagnosed at an early stage.

The “Get Cancer Clever” campaign is hitting the streets of Greater Manchester, giving people the tools to spot the early signs of cancer and the confidence to get checked out fast. The message is simple: if something doesn’t feel right, don’t ignore it – see your GP. The earlier cancer is found, the easier it is to treat.

Launching on Wednesday 29 October on Market Street, Manchester, the mobile roadshow will travel across all ten boroughs of Greater Manchester for the next seven months. On board, specially trained staff will be available for free, friendly conversations about spotting the early signs of cancer.

Why It Matters

The earlier cancer is found, the easier it is to treat. The NHS wants everyone to know the key symptoms to look out for, including:

• A lump or swelling anywhere on the body
• A cough or breathlessness lasting more than three weeks
• Unexplained bleeding (in pee, poo, or between periods)
• Heartburn that lasts for three weeks or more
• Unexplained tiredness, pain, loss of appetite, or weight loss

Dr Sarah Taylor, a Manchester GP, explains:

“Most of the time, these symptoms aren’t cancer – but it’s always worth getting them checked. If it is cancer, catching it early makes all the difference. We want people to know that their GP is here for them.”

The “This Van Can” roadshow is here to make those conversations easier – whether it’s picking up a leaflet, having a quick chat, or simply learning what to watch for.

To check when the van is coming to your area, visit www.thisvancan.co.uk