People in Wales concerned that they have cancer symptoms are being urged to seek information and support while they shop.
This comes as Tesco and Cancer Research UK are working together to raise awareness in Wales of possible symptoms of cancer, break down barriers people may face to speaking to healthcare professionals, and help customers feel more confident when communicating with their doctor.
A new survey by the charity and YouGov shows that there are a number of barriers that make people in the region delay or put off having potential cancer symptoms checked*.
The top four are – thinking it will be difficult to get an appointment (51%); finding it difficult to get an appointment; thinking symptom was unlikely to be anything serious (44%); and deciding that symptom(s) could be managed by themselves (45%).
To break down these barriers, Cancer Research UK has created a health campaign with Tesco, running until 30 November, to highlight the importance of early diagnosis of cancer, and support customers to seek help if they’ve noticed something unusual for them.
If someone notices something that is unusual for them, they can have an initial conversation with a pharmacist at the:
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Bridgend Extra
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Bridgend Superstore
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Cardiff Extra
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Haverfordwest Extra
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Holyhead Extra
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Talbot Green Extra
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Llanelli Extra
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Mold
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Newport Gwent Extra
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Penarth
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Pontypridd Extra
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Swansea Extra
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Bangor Extra
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Carmarthen Extra
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Culverhouse Cross Extra
Each store will provide a convenient, private setting, and receive guidance on taking the next steps and booking a GP appointment if needed.
Tesco pharmacists have received specialist training from Cancer Research UK to provide support on possible signs and symptoms of cancer.
Michelle Mitchell, Cancer Research UK’s chief executive, said: “Nearly one in two of us will be diagnosed with cancer in our lifetime. Spotting cancer early can make all the difference, so it’s incredibly important that people get the support they need when they notice something that’s not right for them.
“That’s why we’ve joined forces with Tesco, to make it easier for people to talk to a professional about any concerns, and ultimately, to help diagnose cancers earlier and save lives.”
Tom Lye, Tesco Health and Wellness Category Director, said: “We know how many barriers there can be in day-to-day life around getting health concerns checked out. Customers can quickly and easily see a pharmacist at one of our Tesco Pharmacies.
“Informed by their specialist Cancer Research UK training, pharmacists can have a confidential conversation about any worrying symptoms which could support customers in getting an earlier cancer diagnosis.”
