Men urged to increase their cancer awareness

Residents can visit the Black Country cancer bus for more information on how to check for cancer symptoms

The NHS is urging men of all ages in the Black Country to increase their cancer awareness.

The Black Country Integrated Care Board (ICB) are reminding men of the importance of early detection and completing cancer screenings in aid of Male Cancer Awareness Week, which runs from 15 September to 21 September.

Organised by the charity Orchid, the awareness week aims to educate men on the signs and symptoms to look out for.

Residents will have the opportunity to visit the ICB's cancer bus, which returns from Monday, at five locations across the area.

According to the NHS, one in two people will develop some form of cancer during their lifetime, with the most common cancers in the Black Country being breast, lung, cervical, bowel and skin.

Dr Mohit Mandiratta, a GP in the Black Country, said early detection is key.

He said: "Now more than ever, it is so important that we are aware of changes in our bodies and when we should be seeking help and advice.

"Male Cancer Awareness Week is a great reminder to all men, and the wider public, to get to know your bodies and what's normal for you, and to act on any unusual changes you notice or concerns you may have by seeking help as soon as possible."

For more information, residents can visit the cancer bus at the below locations:

• Monday 15 September, 10am - 4pm at Park Street, Walsall Town Centre

• Tuesday 16 September, 10am - 4pm at The Fountain, Dudley High Street

• Wednesday 17 September, 10am - 4pm at Queen Square, Wolverhampton

• Thursday 18 September, 10am - 4pm at Outside Guru Nanak Gurdwara, Smethwick

• Friday 19 September, 10am - 4pm at Merry Hill Shopping Centre, Dudley

The bus will be staffed by clinicians and community cancer champions, who will be on hand to share vital cancer information, raise awareness, offer advice, and answer questions.