A cancer survivor and mum-of-three who credits visiting her GP with saving her life is to feature in a new campaign being launched across Greater Manchester.
Tracey Jacques, 53, wants to encourage people to visit their GP if they notice signs or symptoms that might indicate cancer.
She will join GPs and other cancer survivors in a new campaign led by the Greater Manchester Cancer Alliance, part of the NHS, all aiming to spread a clear message: if something doesn’t feel right, don’t wait—book an appointment with your GP.
Tracey, a HR officer, went to her GP after she experienced postmenopausal bleeding for three days. She went on to be diagnosed with womb cancer and had surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy to treat her cancer back in in 2021. She is now doing well and believes it is vital that people did not ignore the warning signs.
She said: “Visiting my GP saved my life 100%! It’s important to have that little bit of knowledge to know that things aren’t right and then make sure you go to your GP. In hindsight, I wish I’d gone a bit sooner.”
Health professionals involved in the campaign are highlighting the importance of early diagnosis, which can make a crucial difference in how treatable cancer is.
Many people delay seeking medical help due to fear, uncertainty, or not wanting to “bother” their doctor—but this campaign wants to change that mindset.
Others worry that it will be too hard to get a GP appointment – another myth the campaign seeks to debunk.
Dr Sarah Taylor, Early Diagnosis Lead at Greater Manchester Cancer Alliance, said: “We know that people sometimes put off seeing their GP when they’re worried. But doctors want to see patients who are worried about cancer as soon as possible
“If you are you experiencing any unusual symptoms that could be cancer, don’t delay – contact your GP today.
“The chances are your symptoms aren’t cancer – but if they are – the sooner we find cancer, the easier it is to treat. If in doubt, you should always check it out.”
The NHS advise that it’s important to be aware of any new or worrying symptoms. Although it’s unlikely to be cancer, it’s important to speak to a GP so they can investigate. Finding cancer early means it’s easier to treat.
Some symptoms to look out for include: coughing, chest pain and breathlessness for three weeks of more, lumps, changes in bowel habits, bloating, bleeding, changes to moles, unexplained weight loss, tummy or back pain, indigestion and heartburn, itchy or yellow skin, feeling tired and unwell.
For more information about cancer symptoms and when to seek help, visit the NHS cancer information page: www.nhs.uk/conditions/cancer.
The campaign entitled If in Doubt, Check It Out, will appear across social media platforms and in community spaces throughout all 10 boroughs of Greater Manchester over the coming months.
