Headlines that speak of delays in diagnosis or a delay in treatment for Cancer patients due to COVID, hits home hard for me.
Having been down this most unwanted of journeys twice now, I know how hard the waiting can be. Days seem like weeks, weeks seem like years, as you wait, not knowing what is going on in your body.
Early diagnosis is key when it comes to Cancer. Caught in the early stages, it can literally be the difference between life and death. Cancer which is confined to one area is more treatable. Leave it and it could travel to another area of your body – Metastasis, making it harder to treat and in many cases cannot be cured. This is why if you notice anything unusual with your body, you should seek medical advice as soon as possible. Don’t put it off assuming it can wait or that it’s non-urgent because of COVID.
I cannot fault the NHS when it comes to my treatment. I feel lucky, yes, I never thought I’d say that about Cancer either, that I was a fair way through treatment when the impact of COVID hit our health service. Personally, my actual treatment was not affected, although for later appointments I had to go alone.
The repercussions that COVID has had on the diagnosis and treatment of cancer will likely be felt long after the virus has (hopefully) been made under control. Whilst we’re still living in these uncertain times, ensure you are extra vigilant when it comes to your health. Get to know your body. It could save your life!
Monthly health and beauty blog by local writer Tanya Louise.