Readers have shared their views on healthcare in Covid, after women were urged to get potential cancer symptoms checked.

As part of Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, North Cumbria Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust (NCIC) is urging women across Cumbria to ask for medical help if they are experiencing symptoms of ovarian cancer.

These include symptoms such as a bloated or swollen tummy, or loss of appetite.

But readers of the News & Star have shared their frustration over the appeal, claiming it is too difficult to get seen due to Covid increasing waiting list times, and making it even harder to see medial professionals.

Ged Mcnamara said: "How? None of the non-Covid services are available due to the Covid-only service causing massive waiting lists for everything else!"

Natalie Jacques commented: "Unfortunately when the ultrasound wait in Carlisle is currently six months long, there is only so much people can do.

"They don't seem to be able to offer any alternatives as I'm assuming everywhere has a backlog with Covid impact.

"Really concerning, and I hope the medics are alerting the people at the top as people are and will suffer as a result."

Christine Sellers said: "It’s horrendous that people are being delayed in receiving vital services, and support, when it’s critical to seek early investigations and support."

Pam McCall added: "How can it be caught early, if you can't get seen?"

Rebeka Cuthbertson, who also posted an article explaining that ovarian and womb cancer could be caught with a smear test, said: "Then why are smear tests only offered routinely to those over 25?"

To find out more about ovarian cancer, including the symptoms and support available, visit the Ovarian Cancer Action website, or visit www.macmillan.org.uk, and search ovarian cancer.

n What do you think of the appeal? Do you feel it's too difficult to get an appointment, or is the support there? Let us know at letters.carlisle@cnmedia.co.uk.