Cancer Support

What is Bowel Cancer?

Bowel cancer is a common type of cancer that affects the large bowel, including the colon and rectum. It usually develops from small growths called polyps, which can sometimes turn into cancer over time.

Symptoms to look out for

• Changes in your poo, such as diarrhea or constipation that lasts for weeks.
• Blood in your poo or bleeding from your bottom.
• Ongoing tummy pain, bloating, or discomfort.
• Unexplained weight loss or feeling very tired all the time

If you have any of these symptoms that last over 3 weeks, book in to see a GP.

Watch this video on bowel cancer symptoms

Prevention & Screening

• Eating a healthy diet, staying active, and not smoking can reduce your risk.
• If you're over 50, you may be invited to take part in bowel cancer screening. This simple test checks for signs of cancer early, even if you have no symptoms.

Each month, the NHS posts out more than half a million free Faecal Immunochemical Test kits (FIT) to people to use in the privacy of their homes.

The FIT kit detects small amounts of blood in poo- that would not be visible to people – before someone may notice anything is wrong.

The bowel screening age now includes individuals aged 54 and will expand to include everyone over 50 within the next year. However, it’s important to note that the bowel screening program is less sensitive than tests conducted by GPs for symptomatic patients. If you experience any concerning symptoms, please see your GP, even if you’ve recently completed a bowel screening test.

What is Breast Cancer?

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers, but it can often be treated successfully, especially if found early. It happens when cells in the breast grow abnormally and form a lump or other changes.

Symptoms to look out for

• A lump or thickened area in your breast or underarm.
• Changes in the size, shape, or feel of your breast.
• Nipple changes, like discharge, pain, or the nipple being pulled in.
• Skin changes, such as redness, dimpling, or puckering.

If you notice any of these changes or have concerns about your breast health, make an appointment to see your GP.

Most changes are not cancer, but it’s important to get them checked.

Watch this video on breast cancer symptoms

Prevention and Screening

• Regular self-checks can help you notice changes early.
• If you’re aged 50–70, you may be invited for breast screening (mammograms) every three years. Screening helps detect cancer early, even before symptoms appear.
• Staying active, maintaining a healthy weight, and limiting alcohol can help lower your risk.

What is Cervical Cancer?

Cervical cancer affects the lower part of the womb (cervix). It develops slowly and is often preventable with regular screening and the HPV vaccine. Most cervical cancers are linked to persistent HPV infections, a common virus that many people naturally clear without treatment

Symptoms to look out for

• Unusual vaginal bleeding, such as between periods, after sex, or after menopause.
• Changes in vaginal discharge.
• Pain or discomfort during sex.
• Pain in your lower back or pelvis.

If you notice any of these symptoms, book an appointment with your GP. Early detection improves the chances of successful treatment.

Prevention & Screening

• Cervical Screening (Smear Test): Women and people with a cervix aged 25–64 are invited for regular cervical screening. This test checks for HPV, which can cause cervical cell changes.
• HPV Vaccine: The HPV vaccine helps protect against the types of HPV that cause most cases of cervical cancer.
• Avoid smoking, as it increases the risk of cervical cancer.

If you have been invited for your cervical screening, it is important you get this booked in! If you are unsure whether you are due your screening, please contact reception. 

Watch this video on cervical screening

What is Lung Cancer?

Lung cancer is a common cancer that starts in the lungs. It’s often linked to smoking, but non-smokers can also develop it. Early diagnosis can improve treatment outcomes.

Symptoms to look out for

• A cough that doesn’t go away or gets worse.
• Coughing up blood or rusty-coloured phlegm.
• Feeling out of breath or wheezy.
• Chest pain, especially when breathing or coughing.
• Ongoing tiredness or unexplained weight loss.

If you have any of these symptoms, especially for more than 3 weeks, make an appointment with your GP. Most symptoms are not cancer, but it’s important to get checked.

Watch this video on lung cancer symptoms

Screening & Prevention

• Stop Smoking: If you smoke, quitting is the best way to lower your risk. Your GP can help with support and resources.
• Healthy Lifestyle: Eating well, staying active, and avoiding pollution can help reduce risk.
• In some cases, high-risk individuals may be offered lung cancer screening.

What is Ovarian Cancer?

Ovarian cancer affects the ovaries, which are part of the female reproductive system. It can be difficult to detect early because symptoms may be vague, but knowing what to look for can help.

Symptoms to look out for

• Persistent bloating or a swollen tummy.
• Feeling full quickly or having difficulty eating.
• Ongoing tummy pain or discomfort.
• Needing to wee more often or urgently than usual.
• Unexplained tiredness, weight loss, or changes in bowel habits

If you notice these symptoms, especially if they persist for three weeks or more, book an appointment with your GP. Early diagnosis can make a big difference in treatment success.

Watch this video on ovarian cancer symptoms

Risk Factors & Prevention

• Family History: If you have close relatives with ovarian or breast cancer, tell your GP, as you may have a higher risk.
• Age: Ovarian cancer is more common in women over 50 or after menopause.
• Healthy Lifestyle: Maintaining a balanced diet and staying active may help lower risk.

What is Prostate Cancer?

Prostate cancer develops in the prostate, a small gland in men that helps produce semen. It’s one of the most common cancers in men and often grows slowly. Early detection can lead to successful treatment.

Symptoms to look out for

• Needing to wee more often, especially at night.
• Difficulty starting to wee or a weak flow.
• Feeling like your bladder hasn’t emptied fully.
• Blood in your urine or semen (less common).
• Pain in your lower back, hips, or pelvis (in advanced cases).

If you notice any of these symptoms or have concerns about your prostate health, book an appointment with your GP. Many prostate problems are not cancer, but it’s important to get checked.

Watch this video on prostate cancer symptoms

Risk Factors & Screening

• Age: Prostate cancer is more common in men over 50.
• Family History: If close relatives have had prostate cancer, your risk may be higher.
• PSA Test: A blood test called a PSA test can help detect prostate cancer early. Talk to your GP about whether this test is right for you.

You can check your risk of Prostate cancer in 30 seconds by answering these 3 questions on the Prostate Cancer UK website

What is Skin Cancer?

Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer. It often develops from too much exposure to the sun or other sources of UV light, such as tanning beds. Early detection and treatment are highly effective.

Symptoms to look out for

• A new mole or skin growth that looks unusual.
• Changes to an existing mole, such as size, shape, or color.
• A sore or patch of skin that doesn’t heal.
• A lump or patch that’s itchy, bleeding, or crusty.
• Follow the ABCDE

A - Asymmetry: One half of the mole looks different from the other.
B - Border: Edges are irregular, blurred, or jagged.
C - Colour: Uneven or unusual colors like black, red, or blue.
D - Diameter: Larger than 6mm (about the size of a pencil eraser).
E - Evolving: Changing in size, shape, or colour over time.

If you notice any changes in your skin, book an appointment with your GP. Most changes aren’t serious, but it’s important to get them checked early.

Watch this video on how to check a mole is skin cancer

Prevention Tips

• Use suncream with SPF 30 or higher and reapply regularly.
• Wear protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses in the sun.
• Avoid tanning beds and stay out of the sun during peak hours (10am–4pm).
• Check your skin regularly for changes (Follow ABCDE)

What is Testicular Cancer?

Testicular cancer affects the testicles, which are part of the male reproductive system. It’s one of the less common cancers and usually affects younger men, but it’s highly treatable, especially if caught early.

Symptoms to look out for

• A lump or swelling in one testicle.
• A heavy or uncomfortable feeling in the scrotum.
• Pain or discomfort in a testicle or the scrotum.
• A dull ache in the lower abdomen or groin.
• Unexplained changes in size or firmness of a testicle.

If you notice any changes in your testicles, even if they don’t hurt, see your GP. Most lumps or changes aren’t cancer, but it’s important to check.

Watch this video on how to check your testicles 

Risk Factors

• Age: Most common in men aged 15–45.
• Family History: A close relative with testicular cancer may increase your risk.
• Previous Testicular Issues: Conditions like undescended testicles may raise your risk.

What is Cancer?

Cancer happens when cells in the body grow and multiply uncontrollably. It can start almost anywhere in the body and may cause a wide range of symptoms. Early diagnosis and treatment can make a big difference

Common Symptoms to look out for

• Unexplained lumps or swelling.
• Unusual bleeding or changes in body functions (e.g., bowel or bladder habits).
• Persistent pain, tiredness, or weight loss.
• Changes in moles or skin patches.
• Long-lasting cough or difficulty swallowing.

If you notice any unusual or persistent symptoms, don’t wait—book an appointment with your GP. Most symptoms won’t be cancer, but it’s important to get checked.

Watch this video on cancer symptoms

Risk Factors

• Lifestyle: Smoking, alcohol, poor diet, and lack of exercise.
• Family History: A history of cancer in close relatives can increase your risk.
• Age: Cancer is more common as you get older, but it can occur at any age.
• Environmental Factors: Sun exposure, pollution, and certain chemicals.

Prevention and Screening

• Eat a healthy, balanced diet and stay active.
• Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption.
• Protect your skin from the sun.
• Attend routine cancer screening programs if you’re eligible (e.g., breast, cervical, bowel cancer checks).