Latest figures show around 1,770 people in the West Midlands are diagnosed with either bladder or kidney cancer each year, with approximately 820 people sadly dying from these diseases in the region annually.
The roadshow aims to improve awareness that blood in pee is a key symptom of bladder or kidney cancer and those who notice it, even if it's just the once, should see their doctor without delay. Research has found that 43% of people would wait until they saw blood in their pee at least a second time before they contacted their GP.
The earlier bladder and kidney cancers are diagnosed, the higher the chance of survival, so being aware of the symptoms is crucial. More than 9 in 10 people in England survive bladder or kidney cancer for at least a year if diagnosed at the earliest stage, but this drops to just one in 3 if diagnosed at a late stage.
The Be Clear on Cancer roadshow will be visiting the Mander Centre in Wolverhampton on Wednesday and Thursday 12 and 13 November, 2014, from 9am to 5pm.
Leaflets will be distributed that provide information on bladder and kidney cancer and possible signs of the diseases, and a nurse will also be on hand to talk to anyone who has any questions.
Councillor Sandra Samuels, Wolverhampton City Council's Cabinet Member for Health and Wellbeing, said: "The figures from the West Midlands show that more needs to be done to raise awareness of blood in pee as a key symptom of bladder and kidney cancers.
"The message is simple; if you notice blood in your pee - even if it appears just the once - tell your GP."
Ros Jervis, Wolverhampton City Council's Director for Public Health, added: "While it's probably nothing serious, noticing blood in pee could be a sign of bladder or kidney cancer. These cancers are more treatable if they are found early and we want to encourage those with symptoms to visit their doctor without delay."
For further information about the signs and symptoms of bladder and kidney cancers, please visit Type=links;Linkid=4779;Title=NHS choices - Bladder and kidney cancer;Target=_blank;.
- released: Tuesday 28 October 2014