18/08/2026
This isn’t your usual solar eclipse post. 🌓
It can be easy to overlook small changes in your body, but it’s so important to get checked if you’re concerned that something may be different.
Spotting cancer symptoms earlier can help get a diagnosis when the cancer is at an early stage. For most cancers, this means treatment is more likely to be successful.
It can be difficult to know whether you need to go to a GP. You may worry that you are wasting your GP's time. Or you might feel embarrassed or anxious talking about it.
It is important to know what is normal for you and your body. If you notice a change in how you feel or how your body works for a few weeks, it is safer to get it checked. A change usually does not mean you have cancer, but it could still be something that needs treatment.
If it is cancer, the earlier it is found, the more likely it is that it will be treated successfully. If it is nothing serious, your GP can reassure you.
When you visit your GP, it is helpful if you can tell them:
- what the symptom is
- how long you have had the symptom
- whether it is there all the time
- how often it occurs.
Your GP may ask you lots of questions. This will help them understand how to help you. It will also help them know whether you need to have any tests or see a specialist doctor.
Some symptoms are difficult to talk about, for example a lump on your testicle or vaginal bleeding. But even you find it embarrassing, it is important to get the symptom checked. Remember, your GP will be used to talking about difficult or embarrassing things.
And remember, you are not alone in facing this. If you need support or just want someone to talk to, call our Support Line for free on 0808 808 00 00 💚
