An NHS cancer hotline offering advice for Sandwell residents who are worried they may have symptoms of cancer has launched this week.
Concerned patients will be able to speak to a specialist nurse who can discuss their symptoms and offer advice on the next steps to take. They must be registered with a Sandwell GP.
This one-year pilot service has been funded by the West Midlands Cancer Alliance. It has been set up by the Healthier Futures Black Country Integrated Care System (ICS) and Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust in partnership.
Jenny Donovan, Cancer Services Manager at the Trust, said: “This hotline will mean people who are concerned about new or persistent symptoms that could be a sign of cancer can speak quickly to an expert. We want to make sure that they have the tests they may need, and any treatment required as quickly as possible.
“Anyone who is worried can ring the advice line on 0121 507 3330, Monday to Friday, between 8am and 4pm.”
Jenny added: “If they think that the person doesn’t need to see a specialist or have tests, they may recommend the person contacts their GP.”
Symptoms of cancer include unexplained weight loss, unusual swellings or lumps, changes to a mole, blood in wee or poo, changes in bowel habits for more than six weeks, a hoarse voice for more than three weeks, difficulties in swallowing, unusual changes to your breast and vaginal bleeding after menopause or between periods. For more information, please visit https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/cancer/symptoms/
Belinda Dooley, Head of West Midlands Cancer Alliance, said: “It is really important that people don’t delay seeking help. If you call our specialist nurses, they can offer reassurance and make sure people are getting the help and support they need, as soon as possible.”
The NHS Long Term Plan aims to save thousands more lives each year by dramatically improving how we diagnose and treat cancer – our ambition is that by 2028, an extra 55,000 people each year will survive for five years or more following their cancer diagnosis.