Early detection is key
“Finding cancer in its earliest stages is really key to maximising treatment options. A much wider range of treatment options can be available, and the body can respond better to treatment. That’s why it’s so important that anyone who is experiencing persistent symptoms that are unusual for them contacts their GP practice without delay."
Ross MacDuff, Joint National Clinical Lead for Earlier Cancer Diagnosis at the national Centre for Sustainable Delivery (CfSD)
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The early bird can have more treatment options
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The early bird can live well again
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The early bird can have better news to tell the family
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Cancer screening can detect cancer before symptoms appear
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Know what to look out for
It’s important to know and be aware of signs and symptoms of cancer. If you have any possible symptoms, always contact your GP practice. If it is cancer, finding it early could make all the difference.
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Cancer screening
Screening is one of the most effective ways of finding cancer early. In some cases it can spot cancer before it even starts!
In Scotland, eligible adults are invited to attend:
Be the Early Bird advert
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In early 2023, Daniel (38) from Cambuslang was diagnosed with salivary gland cancer, a rare form of cancer that affects the head and neck area. -
In July 2023, Margaret Sherwood (63) from Dunoon, Argyll was diagnosed with cholangiocarcinoma, a rare form of cancer that affects the bile ducts in the body.
Your GP practice wants to hear from you
If you’re worried about any possible symptoms, or if you’ve noticed a change to your body that’s unusual and unexplained for you and isn’t going away, the best thing to do is contact your GP practice. You’re not wasting anyone's time.
Your first appointment might be by phone but the nurse or doctor will invite you in if any further examination or tests are required. Just let the receptionist know what your symptoms are and how long you have had them.
Douglas Rigg, GP
Worried about a friend or family member?
If someone close to you is experiencing any symptoms mentioned on this site, it may well be that they simply don’t realise it could be a sign of cancer. Friends and family have an important role to play in passing on information and encouraging those experiencing symptoms to contact their GP practice.
