We’re pleased to be working with the Greater Manchester Cancer Alliance to promote their “If in Doubt, Check it Out” campaign over the coming months. The campaign, featuring GPs and other primary care staff from across Greater Manchester, seeks to highlight the importance of early diagnosis, which can make a crucial difference in how treatable cancer is.

Many people delay seeking medical help due to fear, uncertainty, or not wanting to “bother” their doctor—but this campaign wants to change that mindset. Others worry that it will be too hard to get a GP appointment – another myth the campaign seeks to debunk.

Dr Sarah Taylor, Early Diagnosis Lead at Greater Manchester Cancer Alliance, said: “We know that people sometimes put off seeing their GP when they’re worried. But doctors want to see patients who are worried about cancer as soon as possible. If you are you experiencing any unusual symptoms that could be cancer, don’t delay – contact your GP today.

“The chances are your symptoms aren’t cancer – but if they are – the sooner we find cancer, the easier it is to treat. If in doubt, you should always check it out.”

The NHS advise that it’s important to be aware of any new or worrying symptoms. Although it’s unlikely to be cancer, it’s important to speak to a GP so they can investigate. Finding cancer early means it’s easier to treat.

Some symptoms to look out for include: coughing, chest pain and breathlessness for three weeks of more, lumps, changes in bowel habits, bloating, bleeding, changes to moles, unexplained weight loss, tummy or back pain, indigestion and heartburn, itchy or yellow skin, feeling tired and unwell.

For more information about cancer symptoms and when to seek help, visit the NHS cancer information page: www.nhs.uk/conditions/cancer.

Published: Aug 5, 2025