One in four Yorkshire cancer patients delayed contacting GP, figures show

One in four people in Yorkshire who were later diagnosed with cancer delayed contacting their doctor, according to new findings from a regional health charity.

Analysis from Yorkshire Cancer Research shows 25% of people in Yorkshire did not contact their GP within three months of first thinking something might be wrong. | Jonathan Pow

placeholder image — Analysis from Yorkshire Cancer Research shows 25% of people in Yorkshire did not contact their GP within three months of first thinking something might be wrong. | Jonathan Pow

Analysis conducted by Yorkshire Cancer Research revealed that 25% of individuals across the region waited at least three months after first suspecting something was wrong before getting in touch with their GP practice.

In response, the organisation is urging the public to pay attention to any changes in their bodies and consult their doctor if they experience symptoms that are unusual or persistent.

Dr Emily Lunn, a researcher working to tackle health inequalities, understands just how vital it is to keep a track of changes in your body. Before starting her academic career in cancer research, she was diagnosed and treated for breast cancer. | Yorkshire Cancer Research

Securing prompt medical guidance plays a critical role in identifying cancer at an early stage, when therapeutic treatments are far more likely to be successful.

A visit to the GP often marks the first step in receiving a diagnosis. Doctors can arrange scans, further tests and specialist referrals to investigate concerns, ensuring any underlying cancer is detected as swiftly as possible.