Early signs can be key when talking to GP about cancer symptoms

Cancer Council WA has relaunched a campaign encouraging regional West Australians to talk to their GP about cancer symptoms after a decline in consultations during the COVID-19 pandemic.

CCWA Wheatbelt regional education officer Melissa Pickering said now more than ever, people should be talking to their GPs about any worrying symptoms.

“The aim of the Rural Doctors Bathroom campaign and other Find Cancer Early campaign materials is to increase awareness of the symptoms of the five most common cancers and motivate regional people to seek medical advice early on,” she said.

“A potential drop in GP visits is concerning as we know that the earlier cancer is found, the greater the chance of successful treatment.”

Narrogin’s Earl St Surgery regional GP Dr Kath Comparti said she was never too busy to discuss important issues, even during the pandemic.

“It’s so important to talk to your doctor about changes in your body. It may be nothing to worry about, but if it is something more serious, your outlook really can be improved by finding any possible cancer as early as possible,” she said.

“There have been advances in the way cancer is diagnosed and treated which have led to improvements in survival.”

Ms Pickering said it was important to reassure the community that GP appointments were available face-to-face, by phone and through Telehealth.

Visit findcancerearly.com.au.