'On-the-spot' Cancer Tests Urgently Needed on High Streets, Say Campaigners

Campaigners Push for Early Detection

Campaigners are advocating for cancer testing to be readily available on high streets to detect tumors earlier and ultimately save lives. They believe that pharmacists and GPs should be equipped with new quick and easy technology to conduct these tests outside of hospitals.

Call for National Screening Programme

In a letter to Rishi Sunak, charity leaders emphasized the need for a national screening programme for oesophageal, pancreatic, stomach, gallbladder, and liver cancers. They urge for the adoption of innovative tests like the 'sponge-on-a-string' method, currently undergoing trials in the NHS, to be used in the community.

Improving Access to Diagnostic Services

Julie Harrington of Guts UK highlighted the importance of providing better access to diagnostic services for patients. She emphasized the significance of making simple diagnostic tests available to primary care practitioners such as GPs and pharmacists, along with providing them with the necessary training and resources.

Early Detection is Key

Early detection of cancers such as oesophageal cancer is crucial as symptoms often go unnoticed until the disease has progressed significantly. The 'sponge-on-a-string' test, which involves swallowing a pill containing a sponge that collects cell samples, has shown promising results in replacing traditional endoscopy.

Urgent Action Needed

Charities are urging for the widespread implementation of the 'sponge-on-a-string' test in GP surgeries, community diagnostic hubs, and eventually pharmacies. They believe that this technology can significantly reduce waiting times, save costs, and provide patients with earlier cancer diagnoses.

Time to Act

Mimi McCord of Heartburn Cancer UK stressed the importance of immediate action, stating that the capsule sponge testing has proven to be effective and should be accessible to all across the country. Marcel Gehrung of Cyted echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the need to act swiftly to ensure that the EndoSign capsule sponge test is available throughout the healthcare system.