The health sector is launching a new cancer awareness campaign as NHS England engages in a unique partnership with Morrisons to include advice on the labels of underwear in 240 stores across the country.
The collaboration has been set up to drive widespread knowledge of the symptoms of breast and testicular cancer, with guidance slotting alongside regular sizing and care information on labels in boxer shorts and bras.
A QR code directing people to further information on breast and testicular cancer will also be included as part of special packaging.
The NHS is encouraging people to contact their GP if they spot any signs of the aforementioned cancers, which can include changes in shape and feel as well as unexplained lumps.
More than nine in 10 (91%) women survive breast cancer for at least five years if they're diagnosed early, according to NHS England – this drops to less than four in 10 (39%) if the cancer has been allowed to spread to other parts of the body.
While the vast majority of men survive testicular cancer, a similar drop in outcomes can be observed if the cancer is caught late with five-year survival rates dropping to approximately 65%.
Neil O’Brien, health minister, said: “We know the biggest factor in people surviving is early diagnosis and this is exactly the type of innovative campaign which will remind people to examine themselves.”
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