Blood in faeces and lumps in breasts are commonly known as reasons to book an appointment with a GP, as they could be signs of cancer. But some rare cancers are more difficult for doctors to detect, as the symptoms can be the same as common health issues. Rare cancer charity Neuroendocrine Cancer UK (NCUK) says that this leads to patients often being misdiagnosed.
And in some cases, GPs have not even heard of neuroendocrine cancer, so it isn’t even something they are considering when examining a patient. To try and reduce the risk of misdiagnosis, the charity has produced a symptoms checklist that patients can take to their medical appointment so they can raise the question: “I have these symptoms, have you considered I might have neuroendocrine cancer?”
The charity hopes that the checklist will lead to more patients getting referred to specialists sooner, so they are also diagnosed and treated more quickly.
NCUK chief executive Lisa Walker said: “Neuroendocrine cancer is often misdiagnosed or overlooked, with people waiting an average of four-and-a-half years for a diagnosis.
“I’m really excited about the opportunity this symptom checker gives people to trust their instincts and start or continue conversations with their doctor.
“You know your own body better than anyone. By encouraging earlier, more informed discussions, we hope more people are referred for further advice or investigation when needed.
“Earlier diagnosis can be life-changing, and this tool is about empowering people to take that first step.”
Possible digestive and abdominal symptoms are:
New onset symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome in people aged 50+.
Persistent bloating or wind.
Gastric disorders including heartburn.
Abdominal pain, discomfort or cramping.
Altered bowel habits – diarrhoea/ constipation/ fatty stools (steatorrhoea)
Possible respiratory symptoms are:
Unexplained wheeze or shortness of breath.
Possible hormonal and flushing symptoms are:
Skin redness without sweating (dry flushing)
High/ low blood sugar (hyper/ hypoglycaemia).
Possible other symptoms are:
Anxiety and low mood symptoms.
Unintentional weight loss.
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
