Pharmacies Across NI Join Campaign To Boost Cancer Awareness

A new public health campaign has been launched in community pharmacies throughout Northern Ireland to increase awareness of the signs and symptoms of cancer and promote early diagnosis.

The 'Be Cancer Aware' campaign, which will run during April and May as part of the Living Well service, emphasises the crucial role of pharmacy teams in offering advice and support. It encourages individuals experiencing potential cancer symptoms to consult their GP and also aims to promote healthy lifestyle changes to help reduce the future risk of developing the disease.

Dr Anna Cullen, Public Health Registrar at the Public Health Agency (PHA), said: "Cancer is a common condition. It is estimated that around half of us will develop some form of cancer in our lifetime.

"Everyone knows what feels 'normal' for them and it's important to be aware of any changes in your body, but there are some common changes and symptoms to look out for and act on. Being aware of the general signs and symptoms of cancer can help in early detection and increase your chance of survival."

Key signs and symptoms highlighted by the campaign include:

• Coughing up blood

• Blood in urine

• Blood mixed through bowel motion (stools)

• A change in bowel habit lasting three weeks or more

• Unexplained, significant weight loss (5kg/10lbs over a couple of months)

• A lump anywhere on the body

• Changes on the skin or to an existing mole (itching, bleeding, or changes in shape or colour)

• A sore that doesn't heal • Symptoms that persist, such as a cough or hoarseness lasting more than three weeks

Dr Cullen urged: "If you notice any of these symptoms and you feel something isn't right, do not hesitate to contact your GP. In many cases, these symptoms will turn out to be a sign of something far less serious, but it is always best to get them checked out. If it is cancer, an early diagnosis means treatment is more likely to be successful.

"You can also ask your pharmacist for advice and further support. They can help you identify ways you can reduce your risk of developing cancer."

Clare Conroy, a Community Pharmacist from Meigh Pharmacy in Co Down, added: "The earlier you find cancer, the easier it is to treat. Community pharmacy is the ideal setting to help encourage people to look after their health, and pharmacy teams play a critical role in supporting early cancer diagnosis.

"As well as advising on how to spot cancer early, pharmacy teams can help support people to make healthy changes that could reduce the risk of cancer. The first step is simple, just ask your pharmacist for advice."

As part of the Living Well campaign, community pharmacies across Northern Ireland are distributing a free information booklet titled 'Be Cancer Aware – Spotting symptoms and reducing your risk'. The leaflet is also available online at www.pha.site/be-cancer-aware-leaflet.

Further information on the signs and symptoms of cancer can be found at www.BeCancerAwareNI.info.