NHS urges Tesco shoppers to read important life saving labels in store
The NHS is encouraging Tesco shoppers to 'keep an eye out' and 'contact your GP practice if something doesn't feel right'. This health warning has been issued as Tesco's own brand-Luxury Soft toilet rolls now feature the NHS logo on the packaging.
The collaboration between the NHS and the supermarket giant has been established to increase awareness surrounding bowel cancer among consumers. An NHS post on X, formerly known as Twitter, reads: "Keep an eye out for our logo on @Tesco toilet roll-78.9 million rolls sold and counting!"
The initiative serves as a reminder for people to be aware of potential cancer symptoms when going to the bathroom. The NHS emphasises: "It's a reminder for people to look out for possible signs of cancer when going to the loo. Know what's normal for you and contact your GP practice if something doesn't feel right."
Printed underneath the NHS logo on the toilet roll is the note: "Finding cancer earlier makes it more treatable and can save lives."
Further details are provided on the back of the pack.
The packaging also lists warning signs of cancer that may be visible during toilets visits like alterations in stool and the presence of blood.
For more detailed information on cancer symptoms, the public is advised to visit the NHS website here.
Symptoms of bowel cancer:
changes in your stool, such as having softer stool, diarrhoea or constipation that is not usual for you
needing to go to the toilet more or less often than usual for you
blood in your stool, which may look red or black
bleeding from your bottom
often feeling like you need to empty your bowels, even if you've just been to the toilet
tummy pain
a lump in your tummy
bloating
losing weight without trying
feeling very tired or short of breath – these are signs of anaemia, which can be caused by bowel cancer
Many of these symptoms can be quite common and may also arise from various other health conditions.
Experiencing these symptoms does not necessarily mean that you have cancer but it is essential you consult a GP for a check-up if you notice anything abnormal.
If cancer is the cause behind your symptoms, early detection may make treatment more manageable.
If anyone experiences symptoms of bowel cancer for three weeks or more, they should speak to a medical professional.
The NHS reassures: "Try not to be embarrassed. The doctor or nurse will be used to talking about these symptoms.
"If you notice your poo is black or dark red, or if you're experiencing bloody diarrhoea, it's crucial to seek an urgent GP appointment or get assistance from NHS 111. You can reach out by calling 111 or using the online help available at 111."
Cancer can come in over 200 different forms and can affect any part of the body, including organs, blood, bone marrow, and the immune system.
Sometimes, cancer can spread from its original site to other parts of the body, a process known as secondary cancer or metastasis.
The type of cancer you have will determine the treatment you receive.
Common cancer treatments include surgery to remove the tumour, chemotherapy with drugs that destroy cancer cells, and radiotherapy that uses radiation to target and kill cancer cells.
Other treatment options might involve immunotherapy, which boosts your immune system to fight cancer, and hormone therapy, which aims to slow down or stop the growth of cancerous cells.
The NHS assures patients: "You'll be looked after by a team of specialists who will work with you to create a treatment plan that is best for you."
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