Don’t ignore the symptoms

Today on National Cancer Day (29 April 2020), local GPs and nurses in Doncaster are calling for local people not ignore potential cancer symptoms.

It is important that patients seek advice if they have a worrying symptom. All local practices in Doncaster are offering online consultations and speaking with patients remotely; this is to ensure that patients don’t have to travel unnecessarily and provides a reassuring option during the Coronavirus outbreak.

Essential and urgent cancer diagnosis, treatment and care is still taking place, in safe environments. Local staff are working tirelessly to get people the best treatment for their cancer as quickly and safely as possible. And for patients that have symptoms of Coronavirus, a dedicated facility exists that can treat people for symptoms other than the virus itself.

Cancer and some treatments, such as Chemotherapy can weaken the immune system, making a person more vulnerable to infections. In a few cases, it may be safer to delay cancer treatment or give it in a different way to reduce the risk from Coronavirus. But a vital message to all patients is that it is important to report symptoms and come forward.

Dr David Crichton, local GP & Clinical Chair, NHS Doncaster Clinical Commissioning Group said: “NHS staff are working together to ensure cancer treatment continues in a way that ensures patient and staff safety, and balances the risk from treatment, clinical need and capacity.

“If you’re worried about something; a change, a lump, blood in your urine or stool or anything else for that matter, please contact your local practice by telephone.

“If we catch cancer early, more people are likely to live and treatment can be more effective. I’d encourage everyone to have the confidence to come forward and share your concerns with us.”

Dr Trish Fisher, Clinical Director of the South Yorkshire and Bassetlaw ICS Cancer Alliance said: “I’m urging people who live South Yorkshire and Bassetlaw to help us, help them.

“We are working hard to ensure everyone is safe and protected, so although the ways we see you may change, we very much still want you to come forward if you’re worried or concerned.

“This is true for those with new signs or symptoms and for existing cancer patients.”

Further information on cancer can be found on the NHS Doncaster CCG website.