Be Clear on Cancer’s ‘Blood in Pee’ roadshow is touring the country and visiting Salford City, on Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 March to raise awareness amongst residents of blood in pee as a key symptom for both bladder and kidney cancers.
Latest figures show that in Salford around 68 people are diagnosed with bladder or kidney cancer each year and approximately 42 people die from these cancers annually.
The roadshow encourages anyone who notices blood in their pee, even if it’s ‘just the once’, to visit their GP to get it checked out. Given that people may not spot blood in their pee unless they check, this year’s roadshow is also promoting a “look before you flush” message, particularly to women, who may be less likely to do so.
Early diagnosis of bladder and kidney cancer increases the chances of survival, so being aware of the symptoms is crucial. For those diagnosed at the earliest stage (stage 1) the likelihood of surviving five years or more can be as high as 84% for kidney cancer and 77% for bladder cancer. However, for those diagnosed at a late stage (stage 4), survival is as low as 10% for kidney cancer and 9% for bladder cancer.
The Be Clear on Cancer roadshow will be visiting shopping centres across England for five weeks and will be stopping in Salford City in Salford on Saturday 19th and Sunday 20th March.
At the event, leaflets will be distributed that provide information on bladder and kidney cancers. A nurse will also be present to talk to anyone who has any questions.
Jane Rossini, Deputy Centre Director, Public Health England North West
“People may be reluctant to visit their doctor if they notice blood in their pee, thinking that it’s not anything serious, but the Be Clear on Cancer roadshow is a great way for individuals from the local area to learn about the key symptoms of bladder and kidney cancer – particularly blood in pee. Awareness is crucial, because the earlier cancer is diagnosed, the higher the chance of survival.”
Ian Lavender, actor and star of Dad’s Army who is a bladder cancer survivor, said:
“I’m supporting this year’s ’Blood in pee’ campaign as a survivor of bladder cancer. It’s a simple message “look before you flush” and make sure you go and see your GP if you notice blood in your pee. Spread the word, someone you know might have this symptom and reminding them to get it checked could save their life – it saved mine, and I’m 70 and still happy to be working.”
BBC journalist and radio presenter, and kidney cancer survivor, Nicholas Owen, commented:
“I was extremely lucky because my tumour was found early. Early diagnosis saves lives, so everyone should look out for key symptoms, like blood in your pee. Don’t delay, the sooner you speak to your GP, the sooner you know what you’re dealing with.”
