Nottinghamshire County Council is urging Mansfield and Ashfield residents to act quickly and see their doctor if they have blood in their pee. This health message is part of the latest national campaign to raise awareness of the signs and symptoms of kidney and bladder cancers being launched on Monday 13 October.

The campaign carries the clear message; “If you notice blood in your pee, even if it’s ‘just the once’, tell your doctor.”

Latest figures show that in 2012 there were 69 cases of kidney or bladder cancer across Mansfield and Ashfield, and that 32 people died from these diseases. However, the chances of survival increase with an early diagnosis which is why Public Health officials are encouraging people to be aware of the main symptom of both cancers – blood in pee.

The national Be Clear on Cancer campaign will be featuring in TV, radio online and print advertising, and there will be a series of roadshows around the country talking to people face to face about kidney and bladder cancer.

People aged over 50 are most at risk of developing kidney or bladder cancer, and although blood in your pee is the most common symptom of both types of cancer, other signs include:

Bladder cancer
• Needing to pee very often or very suddenly
• Pain while peeing

Kidney cancer
• A pain below the ribs that doesn’t go away
• A lump in your stomach

Councillor Joyce Bosnjak, chair of Nottinghamshire County Council Health and Wellbeing Board said:
“Putting things off is something that we can all be guilty of, but early diagnosis of kidney or bladder cancer could save your life. It is as simple as that.

“If you notice blood in your pee, see your GP straight away, the chances are that it is probably nothing serious, but the only way you can know for sure is having it checked out.

Dr Chris Kenny, Director of Public Health Nottinghamshire County and Nottingham City ,said:
“Detecting bladder and kidney cancers early makes them easier to treat, so knowing the symptoms, and seeing your doctor quickly if you think you may have them could save your life.

“These diseases affect both men and women, although they are most common in men over 50, a group that often put off seeing their GP with a problem. It might not be anything serious, but your GP will want to see you.”

What should you do?
• If you notice any of these conditions, see your GP straight away.
• Encourage family or loved ones not to put off seeing their doctor if they think they have any symptoms of kidney or bladder cancer.
• Having any of the symptoms doesn’t mean it is cancer so don’t be afraid to see your doctor. Other conditions can cause blood in pee but don’t try and diagnose yourself – see your GP.

More information
• For further information about the signs and symptoms of bladder and kidney cancer, please visit nhs.uk/bloodinpee
• Ask your GP – they will be happy to help
• For more information on other Be Clear on Cancer campaigns and symptoms, visit nhs.uk/be-clear-on-cancer