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Macmillan Mobile Information & Support Service

Macmillan Mobile Cancer Information and Support Vehicle

On the 15th November 2006 the Lancashire & South Cumbria Cancer Network launched their Mobile Cancer Information and Support publicity vehicle. This service has been established as a partnership between the Lancashire & South Cumbria Cancer Network and Macmillan Cancer Support.

Macmillan Cancer Support is one of the UK’s leading cancer charities it provides practical, medical, emotional and financial support and pushes for better cancer care.

The aim of this 3 year project, which has been funded by Macmillan Cancer Support is to raise awareness in the community about Cancer Prevention and Cancer Care by displaying and providing information.

    The type of information provided will be:
  • General cancer and screening awareness.
  • Information about types of cancer.
  • Financial advice.
  • Support Services for cancer patients and their carers.

“More than 1 in 3 people will develop cancer at some stage in their lives”

“Over 200,000 people are diagnosed with cancer each year”

“There are 600 new cases each day”
(NHS Cancer Plan, 2000)

Therefore: “Better prevention of cancer” “Better detection of cancer” “Better treatment and care” MATTER TO US ALL

Cancer can be difficult and daunting. Providing accurate information will encourage people to talk about cancer and to visit their GP if they are concerned about their health.

Signs and Symptoms

Some signs and symptoms of common cancers or other conditions.

Lumps that do not go away
Get to know your body and check yourself regularly. Become aware of any lumps or changes under the skin e.g. breast, testicles and under the arms and if you notice any changes talk to your GP.

Skin changes
If you have any moles, check them regularly for any changes e.g. bleeding, itching, altering shape or size. These can include sores that do not heal and darkening and/or reddening of the skin. If you are concerned about a mole, talk to your GP.

Unexplained weight-loss and tiredness
If you find you have lost a lot of weight in a short time (and are not on a diet) and you are also feeling more tired than normal, talk to your GP.

Coughing
If you have a persistent cough or changes in a cough, hoarseness or coughing up blood, talk to your GP.

Change in bowel habits
Everyone has different bowel habits so its important to be aware of what is normal for you. If you have a recent and unexplained diarrhoea, constipation or blood in the bowel movement, talk to your GP.

Change in bladder habit
If you notice pain when passing water, blood in the urine or a change in bladder habit i.e. increase or decrease in visits to the toilet, talk to your GP.

Persistent bleeding or discharge
If you notice bleeding in between menstrual periods, after intercourse or after the menopause, talk to your GP.

It’s important to also go for regular smear tests as this can help in detecting the early stages of cervical cancer.

Ongoing indigestion and problems swallowing
If you have indigestion that will not go away or any difficulties swallowing, talk to your GP.

Mouth problems
If you notice that you have mouth ulcers or red or white patches that do not heal, talk to your GP.

If you have any of the above signs and symptoms or any other unexplained symptoms, please talk to your GP for advice.

The signs and symptoms list above can also be linked with other medical conditions or illnesses. If doesn’t necessarily mean you have cancer.

How you can help to reduce your risk:

  • Do not smoke or chew tobacco.
  • Limit the amount of alcohol you drink.
  • Eat a balanced diet, avoid fatty foods and keep active.
  • Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun and getting sunburn. Always use sunscreen of at least factor 15, on exposed skin.
  • Always follow Health & Safety advice if handling hazardous substances that can increase the risk of cancer.
  • Women over 20 need to have a regular cervical smear test and to check breast regularly. If you are over 50 have regular mammograms.
  • Men should make sure they check their testicles regularly.

The Mobile Cancer Information Service is available to visit community venues and events within Morecambe Bay, Blackpool and the Fylde Coast, Central and East Lancashire, for example Community Centres, Supermarkets, Town Centre Events, Public Events, Health Awareness Events, Health Centres and Schools.

Victoria Phillips If you would like any further information or you would like the Mobile Information Unit at your local event please contact:

Victoria Phillips, Macmillan Information & Support Facilitator on 01772 647187 or e mail victoria.phillips@northwest.nhs.uk


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