Men of all ages in the Black Country are being urged to increase their awareness of common cancers for Male Cancer Awareness Week (15-21 September).
Organised by the charity Orchid, the awareness week aims to educate men and the wider public on the importance of early detection, regular check-ups, completion of cancer screening when it’s offered, and increased knowledge of the signs and symptoms to look out for.
One in two people will develop some form of cancer during their lifetime, with the most common cancers in the Black Country being breast, lung, cervical, bowel and skin.
Dr Mohit Mandiratta, a GP in the Black Country said “Now more than ever, it is so important that we are aware of changes in our bodies and when we should be seeking help and advice. Male Cancer Awareness Week is a great reminder to all men, and the wider public, to get to know your bodies and what’s normal for you, and to act on any unusual changes you notice or concerns you may have by seeking help as soon as possible. Early detection is key.
“The NHS is here for you, so please access the services available and make sure you complete any cancer screening that’s offered to you. It’s also important to remember that mental health support is available for anyone struggling from the effects of cancer or cancer diagnosis, so please reach out to your cancer team, GP or NHS 111 for advice and signposting if you need it.”
Black Country residents will also have the opportunity to visit Black Country Integrated Care System’s cancer bus, which returns from 15-19 September, basing itself at five local sites throughout the week:
- Monday 15 September, 10am to 4pm at Park Street, Walsall Town Centre
- Tuesday 16 September, 10am to 4pm at The Fountain, Dudley High Street
- Wednesday 17 September, 10am to 4pm at Queen Square, Wolverhampton
- Thursday 18 September, 10am to 4pm at Outside Guru Nanak Gurdwara, Smethwick High Street
- Friday 19 September, 10am to 4pm at Merry Hill Shopping Centre, Dudley.
The bus will be staffed by clinicians and Community Cancer Champions, with a range of other staff for support, who will be on hand to share vital cancer information, raise awareness, offer advice, and answer questions.
