Did you know that blood in your pee could be a sign of bladder or kidney cancer? It is good news that there is greater understanding amongst the public that this is a key symptom and they know it is important to go and see their doctor if it happens – partly thanks to the Be Clear on Cancer Campaign run by Public Health England. Research from the last campaign in 2014 had impressive results:

• Six in ten (62%) respondents spontaneously mentioned blood in pee as a cancer symptom compared with 31% pre-campaign
• Two fifths of all respondents spontaneously mentioned blood in pee when asked directly about signs/symptoms of bladder/kidney cancer,
• Confidence in knowledge of signs and symptoms of bladder/kidney cancer increased

Unsurprisingly, the last campaign also had a significant impact on the number of urgent referrals by GPs and subsequent increase in diagnosis in these types of cancer.

Around 17,450 people in England are diagnosed with either bladder or kidney cancer every year. Blood in pee is a symptom in over half (53%) of bladder cancers and almost a fifth of kidney cancers so being aware of this is crucial.

Early diagnosis of bladder and kidney cancer increases the chances of survival. For those diagnosed at the earliest stage (stage 1) the likelihood of surviving five years or more can be as high as 84% for kidney cancer and 77% for bladder cancer. However, for those diagnosed at a late stage (stage 4), survival is as low as 10% for kidney cancer and 9% for bladder cancer.

Many cases of bladder cancer, in particular, can be completely cured by relatively non-invasive treatment if they are picked up early.  Although blood in your pee is an important symptom, there are many other more common, curable and less serious causes.  So it’s important not to let fear prevent you from seeking advice as soon as possible

As Early diagnosis is a key plank of the Cancer Taskforce Implementation Plan agreed at NHS England’s Board at the end of January, I am delighted that the Be Clear on Cancer Blood in Pee campaign is about to run again from 16^th February to the end of March. The campaign includes national TV, radio, digital and out of home advertising (posters in public washrooms) together with face to face events in venues such as shopping centres. It has also been endorsed by some high profile cancer survival personalities.

As with previous campaigns, NHS England has been working with the NHS across the South to ensure we are prepared to respond to the campaign as well as to help promote it.

Of course, prevention is always better than cure so it is also worth knowing that smokers and people who are overweight or obese have a much higher risk of these cancers. You can find out more about the campaign and the risks here.