Public 'putting off visiting GPs'

 

Ella Pickover
Tuesday 18 September 2012 06:07 EDT
Comments

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Health experts are encouraging people not to put off seeing their GPs after research showed that almost a quarter of Britons would not see a doctor for a complaint because of the hassle of getting an appointment.

One in five people are also put off going to their GP because they are worried about what the doctor might find, according to research conducted by Cancer Research UK.

Almost a third of adults would not go to the GP is they believed that an unusual or persistent change to their body would go away in its own time, according to the poll of more than 2,000 Brits.

Not wanting to waste the doctor's time and embarrassment about the changes to their body were other reasons that might prevent people from making an appointment.

Dr Claire Knight, health information manager at Cancer Research UK, said: "We want people to know that you are more likely to survive cancer if it's found at an early stage.

"It's important to get to know your body so you're familiar with what's normal for you. If you notice any unusual or persistent changes, it's really important to take the time to visit your doctor to talk about it.

"Cancer is most common in the over 50s, but people of all ages who notice a change that's hung around for a few weeks should get it checked out by a doctor.

"More than likely it won't be anything to worry about and it will be a load off your mind. But if it is something serious, spotting it early can make a real difference because treatment is often simpler and more likely to be effective.

"A quick visit to your doctor could save your life."

PA

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in