Only 1 in 3 survive bladder or kidney cancer beyond a year if diagnosed at a late stage.
Four Premier League clubs from across the country have put their rivalry to one side to support Public Health England’s campaign to increase awareness of a key symptom of bladder and kidney cancers – blood in pee. Latest figures reveal that only 1 in 3 people survive bladder or kidney cancer beyond 12 months if diagnosed at a late stage, compared with more than 9 in 10 who survive at least a year if diagnosed at the earliest stage.
The earlier bladder and kidney cancers are diagnosed, the higher the chance of survival, so being aware of the symptoms is crucial. Visible blood in pee is a key symptom in many bladder and kidney cancers and those who notice it, even if it’s just the once, should see their doctor without delay. Yet research has found that 43% of people would wait until they saw blood in their pee at least a second time before they contacted their GP.
With the support of the Premier League and football clubs Liverpool FC, West Ham United FC, Southampton FC and West Bromwich Albion FC, this campaign aims to keep the ‘blood in pee’ message at the front of people’s minds. The clubs’ support will also help reach men in particular, who are at greater risk of developing bladder and kidney cancers.
The four football clubs will each support the campaign in a variety of different ways. One of these includes installing thermochromic posters in their urinals which, when used, turn red to reveal the campaign message urging fans to tell their doctor if they notice blood in their pee. Clubs will also display campaign material about bladder and kidney cancers during match days, while players and club doctors will publicly back the campaign.
Professor Kevin Fenton, National Director of Health and Wellbeing at Public Health England, comments: “This campaign encourages those who notice blood in their pee to go to their doctor straight away – bladder and kidney cancers are more treatable if they are found early. It is important that people from all sections of society have an awareness of the symptoms, especially where cultural barriers exist that may prevent them from presenting early to their doctors.
“We are delighted to receive such high profile support from these Premier League clubs. We are confident that together, we can increase awareness of the symptoms of these cancers and encourage those with symptoms to visit their doctor without delay.”
Carlton Cole, West Ham United striker and former England international player, explains: “As footballers we play week in, week out and our fans are always there, so it’s important we support them too. That’s why here at West Ham United, we are proud to back the Be Clear on Cancer, Blood in Pee campaign and make our fans and the general public more aware of the signs of bladder and kidney cancer.”
Simon Morgan, Head of Community Development, Premier League said: “The Premier League is proud to be supporting the Be Clear on Cancer ‘Blood in Pee’ campaign. The health of football fans across the country is a serious issue, with men more at risk of developing and dying from bladder and kidney cancer than women. This campaign, being delivered with the help of Premier League clubs, is hugely important in raising awareness of a key sign of these cancers.”
Jay Rodriguez, Southampton forward comments: “As a footballer I am always keeping an eye on my health and we want our fans and their loved ones to do the same. If you notice something unusual, like blood in pee, you should always go straight to your doctor. That’s why I’m supporting the Be Clear on Cancer campaign, to raise awareness amongst fans of the signs of bladder and kidney cancer.”
For further information about the signs and symptoms of bladder and kidney cancers, please visit nhs.uk/bloodinpee
