A Co Down mum who was diagnosed with breast cancer when she was 37 has urged the public to seek help if they have health concerns "no matter how big or small".
Maura Gilmore, 44, from Kircubbin, received her diagnosis in January 2013, and says only for early detection, she is still alive today and a mother to her two sons.
Stressing the importance of not delaying speaking to your GP during the current Covid-19 pandemic, Maura said: “I urge anyone who has a concern, no matter how big or small, to please go to their doctor. I had a tumour in my breast that was 11mm when detected and I am grateful every day that it was found so early that it hadn't spread.
"Only for early detection. I'm still alive, seven years later, being a mummy to my two sons. You may feel anxious about seeing a doctor, but an early diagnosis can save your life."
Cancer Research UK is urging people across Northern Ireland who are worried about potential cancer symptoms to reach out to their GP following new statistics which show a dramatic 60% drop in “red flag referrals” since lockdown.
New figures from the Health and Social Care Board issued this week revealed that cancer services across the country have seen more than a 60% decrease in the number of urgent referrals from GPs for suspected cancer in the wake of the Covid-19 crisis.
Cancer Research UK’s public affairs manager Margaret Carr said it’s vital people who are worried get in touch with a health care professional.
She added: "It’s hugely concerning there has been such a dramatic drop in the number of urgent suspected cancer referrals. It’s clear the pandemic has left cancer diagnosis and treatment in a precarious position.
"If lots of suspected cancer cases are not investigated until a later date, there’s a risk of breaking an already flooded NHS system.
"Patients with any persistent, worsening or unexplained symptoms should not delay contacting their GP, even in the current situation.
"We know that people are following government guidance and trying to stay at home, as we all should be, and this could be why they’re not seeking help from their doctor. But even though some GPs may be closed to reduce in-person contact, they are still happy to take online and telephone appointments instead.
“While the threat posed by Covid-19 could change a patient’s treatment options, it’s vital that cancer is diagnosed as early as possible.”
Cancer Research UK is urging people to get in touch with their GP if they notice something that isn't normal for their body or doesn’t go away. It’s more likely that unusual changes are caused by something much less serious.
The charity’s concerns were echoed by Northern Ireland cancer patient advocate Margaret Grayson MBE.
Margaret, a former radiographer and a breast cancer survivor, said: “Please, if you have something different happening in your body that is concerning you, can I encourage you to contact your GP surgery.
“Many people think that surgeries are closed or not safe to go to at this anxious time. Others don’t want to bother their GP with things that are not related to the Covid virus. This is important, please if you have concerns contact your GP, they are there to support you.”
More information about cancer and coronavirus, is available here.
