| People often feel that there is relatively little to be gained by seeking help. |
Reinforce ‘early detection saves lives’. This work is not about end of life or death. Early presentation is a positive message. Help break the silence around cancer by talking about it sensitively and often. |
| It is not uncommon for people to have low knowledge of cancer symptoms. |
Familiarise yourself with common symptoms and talk to colleagues, families, friends and clients when you have the opportunity. Make sure that there are leaflets and posters available in your workplace. |
| Many people have experience of cancer, either first hand or with friends and family. |
Recognise that people come with a history which might be positive or negative. Be sensitive but do not let that stop you from talking about cancer. |
| People often place great store in the opinions of trusted staff and colleagues. |
You are in a position to positively influence peoples’ health. We all have a role, no matter how small. |
| People often underestimate the effectiveness of treatments. |
Reinforce the message that treatment is much more effective when cancers are diagnosed earlier. Outcomes for cancer are improving year on year. |
| Many people are concerned that they will ‘needlessly bother doctors’ with symptoms that they feel are not serious. |
Changes in bodies, no matter how small, should be checked out. In the vast majority of cases they are not caused by cancer. Doctors prefer people to visit. |
| People don’t attend their screening appointments or return bowel screening kits. |
Reinforce benefits and the message of prevention and early detection. Friends and families can be important influences. Most screens are simple and quick. |
