Be Clear on Cancer campaign aims to increase early diagnoses and save lives in the West Midlands
News from our partners Public Health England
Around 1,770 people in the West Midlands region are diagnosed with either bladder or kidney cancer every year (17,560 in England), with around 820 people dying from these diseases annually (7,860 nationally). More than 9 in 10 people in England survive bladder or kidney cancer for at least a year if diagnosed at the earliest stage, but this drops to just 1 in 3 if diagnosed at a late stage.
The earlier bladder and kidney cancers are diagnosed, the higher the chance of survival, so being aware of the symptoms is crucial. To help increase awareness of a key symptom of both cancers – blood in pee – four Premier League Football clubs have put their rivalry to one side to support Public Health England’s latest Be Clear on Cancer campaign. The clubs’ support will help reach men in particular, who are at greater risk of developing bladder and kidney cancers.
Visible blood in pee is a key symptom in many bladder and kidney cancers and those who notice it, even if it’s just the once, should see their doctor without delay. Yet research has found that 43% of people would wait until they saw blood in their pee at least a second time before they contacted their GP.
Dudley resident, 52-year-old Nigel Gibson, knows all too well about the importance of visiting your GP if you notice blood in your pee, having survived bladder cancer. Two years ago Nigel noticed a small amount of blood in his pee while at work. Immediately, Nigel called up his GP surgery where he was referred to be seen by his GP that same day. After two weeks, Nigel had an appointment at the hospital, where he had a cystoscopy and CT scan which confirmed he had a tumour. Shortly after, he had a TURBT (transurethral resection of bladder tumour) to remove it, and Nigel is now cancer free.
Professor Kevin Fenton, National Director of Health and Well-being at Public Health England, commented:
“This campaign encourages those who notice blood in their pee to go to their doctor straight away – bladder and kidney cancers are more treatable if they are found early. We are delighted to receive such high profile support from the Premier League. We are confident that, together, we can increase awareness of the symptoms of these cancers and encourage those with symptoms to visit their doctor without delay.”
Sean Duffy, National Clinical Director for Cancer at NHS England, said:
“Knowing the signs and seeing your GP as early as possible can make a real difference and significantly improve the chances of surviving bladder and kidney cancer. That is why the blood in pee campaign is so important.”
Dr Lola Abudu, public health consultant at PHE West Midlands, said:
“The figures from the West Midlands show that more needs to be done to raise awareness of blood in pee as a key symptom of bladder and kidney cancers. Early diagnosis is a crucial factor in saving lives. Increasing awareness of potential symptoms, and encouraging people to visit their doctor sooner rather than later, will help reduce the number of people dying in the region each year. The message is a simple but effective one; if you notice blood in your pee – even if it appears just the once – tell your GP.”
Simon Morgan, Head of Community Development, Premier League, said:
“The Premier League is proud to be supporting the Be Clear on Cancer “Blood in Pee”campaign. The health of football fans across the country is a serious issue, with men more at risk of developing and dying from bladder and kidney cancers than women. This campaign, being delivered with the help of Premier League clubs, is hugely important in raising awareness of a key sign of these cancers.”
For further information about the signs and symptoms of bladder and kidney cancer, please visit nhs.uk/bloodinpee.
