By Emily Parsons

Last updated at 16:38, Monday, 14 January 2013

A new pilot campaign has been launched in Cumbria to raise awareness of bladder and kidney cancers.

Figures just released reveal that in 2009, 60 people were diagnosed with kidney cancer and 33 died. A further 86 were diagnosed with bladder cancer, and 31 died that year.

The Be Clear on Cancer Blood in Pee campaign pilot will see TV and radio adverts going out across Cumbria from today, to raise awareness of the symptoms.

Public Health Minister Anna Soubry said: “Many people don’t know the key signs of bladder and kidney cancers, which is why this campaign is so important.

“Earlier diagnosis improves the chances of successful treatment and is key to tackling cancer survival in this country. If caught at the earliest stage, one year kidney and bladder cancer survival is as high as 88 to 95 per cent, compared to just 22 to 35 per cent at a late stage.”

The new NHS Be Clear on Cancer campaign encourages people to see their doctor straight away if they notice blood in their urine – even just a single time.

Dr Debbie Ashcroft, a GP who features in the campaign, said: “Blood in your pee could be an early sign of kidney or bladder cancer.

“If you notice it, even if it happens just the once, don’t make excuses, make an appointment with your doctor. You’re not wasting your doctor’s time. They will want to hear from you and it’s much better to be sure, if only to put your mind at rest.”

The pilot will run for nine weeks and include awareness-raising events targeting people over the age of 50 across Cumbria.

For more details on the signs and symptoms of bladder and kidney cancer visit www.nhs.uk/bloodinpee

First published at 16:33, Monday, 14 January 2013
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk