Tameside and Glossop 5th best in England for cancer wait times

Tameside and Glossop’s local cancer services are amongst the best in the country in terms of the length of time it takes to get treatment, new figures show. Hospitals are required to start treatment within 62 days of an urgent referral by a GP in 85% of cases. But new research by the BBC has found that 94 out of 131 cancer services in England failed to meet that target during 2018-19. Cllr Eleanor Wills, Tameside Council’s executive lead for health, said: “Services across Tameside and Glossop work very hard to deliver the best service they possibly can, and are always trying to improve things.” She added: “Cancer remains one of the biggest health issues for Tameside and Glossop so there isn’t any room for complacency. We also need people to watch out for symptoms and consult their GP if something doesn’t feel quite right, because seeking help early can make a big difference. “Also, of course, because many cancers are preventable there are things we can all do to help minimise the risks of cancer– things like not smoking, eating a healthy diet, and keeping active. “Our local free NHS service at Be Well Tameside can provide support with things like stopping smoking, losing weight, cutting down on alcohol, and other healthy changes. And of course we encourage people to take part in cancer screening programmes they may be eligible for.” There’s more information about cancer on the NHS website, and the Cancer Research UK cancer awareness roadshow will continue to visit Ashton Market Hall once or twice a month until the end of November to give people an extra opportunity to get free, friendly, face-to-face information about cancer. Cancer? What to watch out for… Developing any of these symptoms does not definitely mean that a person has cancer, but it is important to speak to a doctor if they appear. These potential warning signs include:

Unexplained weight loss.
Unusual swellings or lumps anywhere on the body.
Changes in the size, shape or colour of a mole.
Ulcers or sores that won’t heal.
Blood in urine or faeces.
Changes in bowel habits that last longer than six weeks.
Problems passing urine.
A cough or hoarse voice persisting for longer than three weeks.
Difficulties swallowing.
Heavy night sweats.
Unexplained persistent pain lasting longer than four weeks.
For women, unusual change to the breast, or vaginal bleeding after menopause or between periods.