HEALTH chiefs in the district are urging people to be 'cancer aware'.

Clinical commissioning groups (CCGs) across Bradford, Airedale, Wharfedale and Craven supported an awareness-raising initiative.

They pledged their backing to World Cancer Day earlier this month.

And they stress the importance of looking out for any potential signs of the disease.

Dr Ian Fenwick, clinical lead for cancer at the Bradford CCGs, said: "We have a range of high-quality local cancer services that people of all ages can access and we know that a combination of factors – including early diagnosis, fast-track treatment and excellent support provision – can increase people's chances of surviving the disease.

"It's important for everyone to be aware of any unusual symptoms and get them checked out by their GP and to take up any screening invites they receive from the NHS.

"Unfortunately, the main cause of low survival rates among some cancer patients is late disclosure of symptoms to a healthcare professional, so it's really important for people to be cancer-aware."

Dr Helena Rolfe, of NHS Airedale, Wharfedale and Craven CCG, echoed the plea for people to seek advice early if they have any concerns.

She said two new services were speeding up diagnosis for patients with worrying symptoms.

"An electronic advice system is helping to identify the most appropriate investigation services for patients and a weekly multi-diagnostic clinic means they can have several tests in the same place on the same day and receive a quicker diagnosis," she added.

"People with vague symptoms can often present late so we hope World Cancer Day has helped raise awareness."

The annual World Cancer Day aims to prevent deaths from the disease by encouraging people to take action.

Over eight million people across the globe die from the disease every year.

Funds are also raised through the event, to support research projects and the work of scientists, doctors and nurses across the UK.

For more details, visit worldcancerday.org.