Cancer patients spread the word about early detection

Scotland’s sixth most common cancer, around 1,300 new cases of head and neck cancer are diagnosed each year – yet only one third are detected early. To emphasise this message, a group of people who had their cancer detected early, the ‘early birds’, met Health Secretary Neil Gray to share vital stories of how this provided more treatment options and helped them live well.

Cabinet secretary for health and social care Neil Gray said: “Early detection is so important to cancer care. The stories from our ‘early birds’ demonstrate the positive impact it can have on treatment and outcomes.”

Dr Gillian Leslie, deputy chief dental officer for Scotland, highlighted the vital role dentists play in detecting signs of cancer. She said: “Routine dental examinations allow us to identify subtle changes in the mouth and throat, and surrounding tissues that could signal early-stage cancer.

“Early diagnosis leads to better treatment options, so we urge people to attend their check-ups. Most importantly, if you notice any sores, lumps, red or white patches that do not go away after three weeks, don’t wait until your next appointment – we want to see you. It’s crucial not to dismiss any potential symptoms. Get checked right away,"

For more information on Be the Early Bird and to use the symptom checker, please visit www.getcheckedearly.org/&source=gmail&ust=1741364076939000&usg=AOvVaw0X1RBSx1JpYK1SysD5zcCw">getcheckedearly.org.