Cancer expert hails 'incredibly important' checks

Cath Watts is the health academy lead at Norfolk-based support centre, The Big C

A cancer expert said catching the disease early via screenings was vital in giving people a better chance of survival.

Cath Watts, of Norfolk and Suffolk-based support centre The Big C, said many people were diagnosed with cancer despite having no symptoms.

It followed BBC radio and TV presenter Lauren Laverne revealing her own diagnosis found during routine screening checks.

Ms Watts said it was "really great" the Desert Island Discs host, 46, had decided to use her public profile to raise awareness.

In a post on social media from hospital, Laverne urged people who were "avoiding a test or putting off an appointment" to get checked.

Lauren Laverne became the host of Radio 4's Desert Island Discs in 2018

Ms Watts, The Big C's health academy lead, said she wanted to echo "the importance of not putting it off".

"The one way to find out is by going to these screenings, it is incredibly important," she told BBC Radio Norfolk.

"When cancer care is delayed due to a late diagnosis, there’s a lower chance of survival.

"Often people with no symptoms may find out through attending a screening, which really does show the importance of attending."

One in two people would get cancer in their lifetime, according to the NHS.

Ms Watts urged people to visit their doctor if something did not feel right.

"We do send Lauren our love and support and wish her well with her treatment and recovery," she added.