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About Cancer

Spot cancer early

Spotting cancer at an early stage means treatment is more likely to be successful. Find out more about early diagnosis, key symptoms, talking to a doctor, screening and further tests.

Person looking at the early detection guide for cervical cancer.

Why is early cancer diagnosis so important?

Getting cancer diagnosed at an early stage, when treatment is more likely to be successful, can make a real difference.

Doctor talking to patient.

Talking to your doctor

Read our practical tips and advice for making the most of your GP appointment, whether it's by phone, video call or face to face.

A patient and mamographer in the waiting room of a mobile breast screening unit.

Screening for cancer

Screening looks for early signs of cancer in people without symptoms. Find out about different types of cancer screening.

Person holding a mug looks at a laptop showing a webpage about cancer.

Key signs and symptoms

There are lots of different signs and symptoms of cancer. Talk to your doctor if you notice anything that's not normal for you.

An adult looking concerned in a bathroom with another adult, with her reflection visible in the mirror.

Can you check yourself for cancer?

Listening to your body means you're more likely to notice unusual changes. But there's no need to check yourself at a set time or in a set way.

Doctors speaking to the patient and her carer.

What if the doctor thinks it might be cancer?

You may be referred for tests or to see a hospital doctor (a specialist). This is to investigate your symptoms and find out if it could be cancer.

Easy read information

We have this information in an easy read leaflet. The leaflet tells you about spotting cancer early.

Spot cancer early – easy read

Register with a GP

If you notice something that's not normal for you, talk to your GP. If you're not registered with a GP, find one using the links below:

England

Scotland

Wales/Cymru

Northern Ireland

Patient Information Forum. Trusted Information Creator.
Plain English Campaign award.
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Nurse helpline

Questions about cancer? Call freephone 0808 800 40 40 from 9 to 5 - Monday to Friday. Alternatively, you can email us.