Doctors in west Essex are urging people with possible cancer symptoms to contact their GP without delay.

Research shows many people are avoiding getting checked, for fear of being infected with coronavirus or placing additional pressure on the NHS.

Macmillan Cancer Support and the West Essex Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) are reassuring people is safe to get in touch with their GP if they experience any new health issues, which might include changes to their body, unexplained lumps or bleeding and coughs which don’t go away after three weeks.

Dr Sara Astbury, a Macmillan GP in Essex, said: “Cancer hasn’t stopped because of Covid-19, so anyone with possible cancer symptoms should not hesitate to contact their GP.

“GP practices across west Essex remain open to ensure that all such cancer-related needs are being met with due urgency and safety, with initial consultations being offered over the phone and via video link.

“Measures have been taken to ensure that Covid-19 infection risks are minimised if you then need to be seen face to face or undergo appropriate investigations.

“We are determined to ensure that cancer is not the forgotten ‘C’ in this pandemic. So please do not put your health at risk by putting off contacting your GP with any cancer related concerns.”

Dr Astbury added: “Now the focus is really on how we get services back up and running so that people living with cancer can continue to receive the treatment and support they need.

“Together with NHS trusts, we’ve been looking at what might be needed to achieve this – whether that’s increased capacity, more infection control measures or more reassurances to patients that we will do everything we can to keep them safe.

“The last thing we want is anyone putting off tests and treatment that might save or prolong their life."