GPs urge people not to ignore possible signs of cancer during coronavirus pandemic

Doctors are urging people with signs and symptoms that could indicate cancer to seek medical advice as usual during the coronavirus pandemic, rather than wait and worry.

Macmillan Cancer Support is asking people to get in touch with their GP if they experience a range of new health issues, including changes to their body, unexplained lumps or bleeding, and coughs which don’t go away after three weeks.

There are 31 Macmillan GPs in London who advise local healthcare bodies on how to improve cancer and end-of-life care.

Macmillan GP for Wandsworth, Dr Owen Carter, said: “Cancer is a life-changing event. Cancer presents in many ways and will not stop because of Covid-19.

“All GP practices and hospitals across our areas are open to ensure that all such cancer-related needs are being met with due urgency and safety.

“They have taken measures to ensure that Covid-19 infection risks are minimised if you need to be seen face to face or need appropriate investigations. We know that the earlier we diagnose any cancer, the better the outcome and overall chances of survival.

“We are determined to ensure that cancer is not the forgotten ‘C’ in this pandemic.  So please do not put your health at risk by putting off contacting your GP with any cancer-related concerns.”

Many GP surgeries are now offering appointments over the phone or virtually, which can be accessed easily and securely on a smartphone through a link.

The Macmillan support line is open seven-days-a-week between 8am-8pm on 0808 808 00 00 and people can join the online community here.