In Wandsworth cancer is the leading cause of death in people under the age of 75 and these figures are on the up compared to the rest of the country. Lung cancer is the main cause in men, whilst 1 in 5 women that die of cancer have breast cancer and another 1 in 5 die of lung cancer.

Director of Public Health for Wandsworth, Houda Al-Sharifi, said: “Over the coming years we will use every opportunity we have to raise awareness of the symptoms of cancer as well as help people improve their lifestyles when they want to. Over half the population in Wandsworth has had a family member with cancer, however recent studies show that 40% of cancer deaths can be prevented by leading a healthier lifestyle. Stopping smoking is one of the most important things a person can do followed by improving their diet, controlling their weight and drinking more moderately.”

Another important message from the report and from the 'Be clear on cancer' campaign is that recognising the symptoms of cancer and getting diagnosed early is very important. The earlier someone sees their GP with symptoms the better chance of survival they have. In Wandsworth we could save 28 additional lives each year by reducing delays in diagnosis (Department of Health 2011).

The first NHS national bowel cancer symptom awareness campaign runs until the end of March 2012. The campaign advertisements feature on TV and the radio and in other national media. The campaign message is that 'loose poo' and 'blood in poo' for more than three weeks can be symptoms of bowel cancer and anyone with these symptoms should visit their doctor; and that catching cancer early makes it more treatable. Visit www.nhs.uk/bowelcancer

March 27, 2012