An average of 14 young people aged 15 to 29 are diagnosed with cancer everyday, according to charity Cancer Awareness for Teens and Twenties (CATTs).
However, during the first national lockdown in 2020, cancer referrals dropped by 75 per cent, and there is ongoing concern over the impact that coronavirus is having on cancer diagnoses as the pandemic continues.
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Manchester-based CATTs is campaigning to ensure more young people know the signs and symptoms of cancer and when to go and see a doctor.
The charity, which is run by young people for young people, is currently working in partnership with NHS Salford Clinical Commissioning Group to deliver free online cancer awareness workshops to all young people aged 15-29 in Salford.
This includes youth clubs, schools, colleges and workplaces. These informal, inclusive and interactive workshops aim to teach teenagers and young adults to know the signs and symptoms of cancer, including unexplained pain and fatigue, how to correctly check themselves for lumps, identify cancerous moles, and how to lower their risk of developing cancer, through information on HPV, safe sex, and sun safety.
Seren Hughes, head of engagement at CATTs, said: “Cancer in young people is uncommon, but, unfortunately, there is still a chance it can happen to people in our age group. We want to give young people the opportunity to take on this knowledge and in turn, to feel more empowered in themselves and able to take action should they need to.
“Cancer doesn’t stop for a pandemic either, and that’s why the work we do is so important. We appreciate how it can be difficult to go to a GP during this time, but if you feel like something is wrong, it is really important to reach out to them with your concerns.”
Bethany Applebee, community engagement leader at CATTs, added: “Since the first lockdown began, many young people have become more resistant to visit the doctor in the fear that their problem may not be classed as important or necessary.
“This, combined with the delays young people may already face when visiting their doctor, and the drop in cancer referrals over the pandemic, has become increasingly concerning, and makes our work more important than ever.
“Young people have the right to know how to look after their health and to know what to do if something isn’t right. These workshops are a safe and open space that not only teach young people essential life skills around taking care of their health, but also give people a chance to ask the questions they have always wanted to. We know that many young people find it difficult to speak to others about their health, which is why these workshops give people the tools to speak to friends, family, and healthcare professionals with confidence.”
As part of its partnership with NHS Salford CCG, CATTs is offering to host free private online workshops to schools, colleges, youth clubs, workplaces and community centres all across Salford.
To book a workshop email SalfordWorkshops@wearecatts.co.uk
