Study reveals patients are delaying cancer checks because of difficulties booking GP appointments

A new study has revealed that Britons with cancer symptoms are deterred from seeking help due to difficulties securing GP appointments, and Cancer Research have warned that the ‘worrying’ delays could damage their chances of survival.

The charity acknowledged that it was “not always easy” to see a family doctor, but stressed that anyone who fears they may have the disease “should persist”.

The poll, which surveyed 4,000 people, found that 48 per cent of those who have experienced a potential cancer symptom did not contact their GP within six months, and even 47 per cent of patients with ‘red flag’ symptoms such as coughing up blood or an unexplained lump, waited at least this long.

One in five respondents said a main reason they delayed contacting their GP was because they “find it difficult to get an appointment”, 13 per cent said they struggled to get one at a convenient time and 11 per cent did not want to be seen as someone who makes a fuss.

Dr Richard Roope, primary care advisor for Cancer Research UK, said “I would urge people to contact their surgery if they spot anything they’re concerned about.  This is not always easy, but they should persist.”

Professor Kamila Hawthorne, chairman of the Royal College of GPs, said “If people have signs that could be a serious illness such as cancer, they should make an appointment without delay.”

A spokesperson from NHS England said “While cancer survival is at an all-time high, it remains crucial for people to come forward and get checked if they have symptoms – with GPs now able to directly refer people for tests.”

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Posted by Karen Motley, Clinical Negligence Department, Chadwick Lawrence LLP (jacquelinevance@chadlaw.co.uk), medical negligence lawyers and clinical negligence solicitors in Huddersfield, Leeds, Wakefield and Halifax, West Yorkshire.

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