Cancer awareness

Early detection saves lives. With one in two people developing cancer in their lifetime, it’s important to know what to look out for and act early.

Signs & symptoms

It is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of the most common types of cancer. The list below provides links to detailed NHS information about each type:

It is important to know your own body and know what’s normal for you; this way you can detect any changes early. Early detection saves lives – we recommend that you see your GP straight away if you find anything abnormal for you.

NHS screening programmes

Attending regular screening appointments when invited can not only detect but also reduce your risk of cancer. We encourage everyone to attend and take part in screening when invited to do so.

Screening programmes include:

Reducing risk

Making small changes to our lifestyle can reduce the risk of developing some cancers. Eating healthily, reducing alcohol consumption, stopping smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, taking part in physical activity and protecting our skin all contribute to reducing the risk of developing some cancers. Our team can deliver workshops and information stands, in your community or workplace, to provide information about ways to reduce your risk of developing cancer, guidance on self-examination and highlight the importance of the NHS Screening Programmes.

Looking for events, groups or activities near you?

Feedback

"We were very inspired by the talks at the Better Health at Work awards two weeks ago. So would love it if you could connect us in some way with a provider so we can raise awareness in our business. "
"I know to to think about changes in my own body, and to be aware of what they may be. "
"I’ll be more proactive and check myself, but also look at subtle changes to lifestyle. "
"We have sent the information out to all our teams who could not attend and we will add a section each month to our news letter to raise awareness "
"I’ll be more vigilant about looking for signs and will make a conscious effort to protect myself and others from the sun. "
"I am going to check the dates on my sun screen, andbe more aware of my body and changes "
"Now I’ll apply sun cream in the UK instead of just abroad and be more aware of any changes. "
"Always encourage other women to attend their cervical screening appointment -especially younger women who may not have had one before. "
"Think more about my fitness, alcohol consumption and eating habits. "
"I’m going to be more conscious about my own decisions surrounding my health. "
"I’ve now got more awareness of symptoms and the benefits of speaking to a professional sooner rather than later. "
"I’m more mindful of the factors which can lead to increased cancer risk. Salty foodwas one I wasn’t aware of. "

How we've helped

Brewing Awareness: how a Macmillan Coffee Morning led to early detection

The Cancer Awareness team regularly visit the Passport Office in Durham, as they have a large workforce from across the county. We were invited to a Macmillan Coffee Morning held by the organisation which provided us with a perfect opportunity to get our message out, so we set up a screening information stand in the foyer....