It is always important to be aware of any unexplained changes to your body, or signs and symptoms that are unusual for you. Usually the chances are it’s not cancer or serious, but it is important to go and see your GP so that they can check you.

There are some common signs and symptoms of cancer that you can look out for, such as unusual lumps and swelling, changes in your body’s habits and unexplained weight loss.

In the below videos, local doctors from across mid and south Essex talk you through how to recognise and identify the signs and symptoms of some of the most common cancers.

Having symptoms does not mean that you have cancer. However, it is important to see your GP as soon as possible if you have any symptoms. If cancer is diagnosed early, your chances of survival are much better than if you are diagnosed late.

Breast cancer

Early diagnosis of breast cancer increases your chances of successful treatment. In this video, Dr Riya Amin talks about the ABCD of breast cancer symptoms and what you should be looking out for. If you notice anything different or unusual in your breasts, then get it checked. Remember to regularly check your breasts for any changes.

Prostate and testicular cancer

Finding prostate and testicular cancers earlier increases your chances of successful treatment. Dr Mark Metcalfe talks about the ABCD of prostate and testicular cancer symptoms and what key signs to look out for. If you notice any of these symptoms, please speak to your GP as soon as possible.

Bowel cancer

When bowel cancer is diagnosed early, your chances of successful treatment are much higher. In this video, Dr Deepak Kumar talks about the ABCD of bowel cancer symptoms and what you should be looking out for. If you’re worried about any symptoms, it’s really important that you speak to your GP as early as possible.

If you’re eligible, it’s important that you take part in the bowel cancer screening programme regularly.

Cervical and ovarian cancer

Diagnosing gynaecological cancers (such as cervical and ovarian cancer) early significantly improves chances of successful treatment. Liza Benson, a lead Practice Nurse, talks about the ABCD of cervical and ovarian cancer symptoms and key signs to look out for.

Very early stage cervical cancer may not cause any symptoms, so it’s important that you attend regular cervical screening (or smear test) appointments. There is more information about what is involved during a cervical screening appointment below in the ‘cancer screening’ section.

Lung cancer

Early diagnosis of lung cancer increases your chances of successful treatment. Clinical Pharmacist, Michael Thomas talks about the ABCD of lung cancer symptoms and key signs and symptoms to look out for. Don’t hesitate to speak to your GP if you notice something unusual for you.

Bladder and kidney cancer

Finding bladder and kidney cancer early increases your chances of successful treatment. Dr Andrea Oustayiannis outlines the ABCD of bladder and kidney cancer symptoms, and what you should look out for. The most common sign of both bladder and kidney cancer is blood in your pee.

Some symptoms may be caused by other conditions such as an infection or bladder or kidney stones, all of which may need treatment.

More information on the signs and symptoms can be found on the websites below:

• NHS UK
• Cancer Research UK
• Macmillan Cancer Support

If a GP suspects you may have cancer, they can refer you for urgent tests which should be carried out within two weeks. You can find more information about this sort of referral below:

• Your urgent cancer referral explained
• Patient information leaflet - Download

There are three main types of cancer screening – cervical, breast and bowel.

Attending your regular cancer screening when recalled by your GP is vitally important to pick up any abnormal cell changes.

The earlier any potential signs of cancer are detected, the quicker you can be diagnosed and treated – which is proven to lead to better outcomes.

Bowel cancer sreening (easy read) - Download

Up to 40% of cancers in the UK could be prevented by making lifestyle changes.

There are some small changes that you can make to your lifestyle which can drastically reduce your risk of being diagnosed with cancer. These include:

• stopping smoking
• maintaining a healthy weight
• eating a healthy, balanced diet
• reducing your alcohol intake
• keeping physically active, and,
• reducing your time in the sun.

Cancer Research UK have developed information about staying healthy at home. This includes lots of useful tips about making healthy choices and changes (during lockdown, if you’re shielding, or just getting used to a new routine).