Scotland’s interim Chief Medical Officer, Dr Gregor Smith, today announced concerns that people with signs and symptoms of cancer are not coming forward to appropriate health care services.
At today’s Scottish Governments Daily COVID-19 press briefing Dr Smith, announced that GPs across the nation are reporting a drop in people coming forward with the common symptoms associated with cancer. This was confirmed when Dr Smith then confirmed there had been a 72% reduction in urgent suspected cancer referrals by Doctors.
Responding to this revelation Cancer Support Scotland’s, CEO, Rob Murray, said:
“Following today’s Scottish Government COVID-19 press briefing, we are saddened to hear that there has been a reduction in the number of people contacting their GP with possible cancer symptoms.
“We are worried about the problems those not contacting NHS professionals are storing up for the future.
“Whilst we fully understand this is a worrying time, we would urge anyone with new signs or persistent symptoms such as a new lump, changes in bowel movements or bleeding to contact your GP straight away. GP practices are working in new ways to ensure surgeries are adhering to social distancing and protecting those who need their support.
“Your health matters too much not to make that phone call.”
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