Men’s Health Awareness Week: We’re here to listen, says cancer charity

Macmillan Cancer Support says that while men represent 51% of people diagnosed with cancer, they represent only 37% of calls to the charity’s Support Line. This means that many men are missing out on the essential support they need after a cancer diagnosis.

Richard Pugh, Head of Partnerships for Macmillan Cancer Support in Wales, said: The pandemic in Wales has left a worrying and lasting legacy on cancer care in our country as fewer people have been able to raise concerns over symptoms and this, compounded by delays in treatments, will mean poorer outcomes.

I’d urge men not to ignore their health concerns but trust their instincts about their bodies and not to put off making an appointment with their GPs. There is nothing more important for you, and for the people that love you, than getting your symptoms checked out.

Delays to both diagnosis and treatment for cancer have real consequences so it’s really important men feel confident to get the treatment and support they need.”

The Macmillan Support Line is open 7 days a week, 8am-8pm on 0808 808 00 00, providing emotional and practical support. The charity’s cancer information nurse specialists and other specialist advisors have a huge amount of knowledge from advice about money and work, through to information about diagnosis and treatment, and can sign-post to local Macmillan services across Wales.

Macmillan is also reminding anyone worried about cancer symptoms to contact their GP as an absolute priority. The latest guidance on coronavirus for people with cancer is available on the charity’s online Covid-19 hub.