Reports of undetected cancers a concern: Irish Cancer Society

The Irish Cancer Society has urged anyone noticing ongoing changes in their health to seek medical advice following estimates that up to 2,000 cancers may be undetected due to pandemic disruption.

Responding to remarks today from the National Director of the HSE’s National Cancer Control Programme that as many as 2,000 people who have developed cancers may not have presented for medical help as yet, the Society is encouraging anyone with a concern about their health to contact their GP or the Irish Cancer Society Support Line without delay.

When it comes to having the best chance of a good outcome, detecting cancer early is vital.

While it is understandable that people are worried about accessing help in the current environment, the Society has been assured that healthcare professionals are doing all they can to ensure that care is being provided in safest way possible so as to minimise the risk to patients at this time.

Anyone with a cancer-related query or concern can contact the Irish Cancer Society Support Line on Freephone 1800 200 700 or email supportline@irishcancer.ie.

Key cancer symptoms

There are more than 200 different types of cancer, each with different symptoms. Many of the possible symptoms of cancer can also be caused by other, much less serious, things. Key symptoms include:

Unexplained changes

• A lump or swelling
• Bleeding that is not normal for you
• Unexplained weight loss
• Pain that does not go away

Persistent changes

• A cough, changes in your voice or feeling short of breath
• A sore that does not heal
• Difficulty swallowing, indigestion or heartburn
• Bloating
• Mouth or tongue ulcer

Unusual changes

• A change in your bowel or bladder habits
• A new mole or change to an existing mole
• Any change in your breast