THE number of patients with suspected cancer being sent for urgent referrals is down by almost three-quarters, according to the interim chief medical officer.
Dr Gregor Smith has issued a plea for anyone with new or persistent symptoms to contact their GP as urgent suspected cancer referrals were 72% down on average.
Speaking at the Scottish Government's daily coronavirus briefing, Dr Smith said A&E attendance was also 54% lower than the average equivalent weeks in the past three years.
Urging people to contact their GP if they notice symptoms such as a new lump, unusual bleeding or a persistent change in bowel patterns, Dr Smith said: "Please don't delay unnecessarily. Your NHS remains here for you, please seek help and attention when you need it.
"There's strong evidence that a reduction in people coming forward to seek help has led to lower numbers of urgent referrals for suspected cancer.
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"This is seen not just in Scotland but appears to be a pattern in other parts of the UK.
"GPs are telling me that they're seeing much fewer people coming forward with these types of symptoms and signs, and the volume of referrals that are being received backs this up.
"In fact, there's been a 72% reduction in urgent suspected cancer referrals compared to the weekly average."
He added: "Now, I don't believe for a second either that either these diseases or these concerns have simply disappeared.
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"So this must mean that there are people out there who are not seeking help from the GP when they might need it."
Urgent suspected cancer referrals are cases when a patient's GP suspects their symptoms could suggest cancer and they are then sent for further tests.
Dr Smith acknowledged "some clinical investigations and cancer treatment may be altered" because of the risks posed by coronavirus but added: "It remains important that patients bring the symptoms to the GP, so that they can be managed appropriately.
"If it was urgent before Covid-19, it remains urgent now."
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Baroness Delyth Morgan, chief executive at research and care charity Breast Cancer Now, said: “It’s extremely worrying that the COVID-19 outbreak is causing such a significant drop in referrals to get potential signs of cancer checked out in Scotland.
“It’s so important everyone knows that they can and should still get in touch with their GP surgery urgently if they notice an unusual change in their breasts. Check your breasts regularly, and if you’re worried about a possible symptom, please don’t wait to report it.
“Our brilliant NHS breast cancer services are still there for you and doing all they can to ensure people get the support and care they need as soon as possible. Most breast changes won’t be cancer, but it’s so important to contact your GP as soon as possible if you find something unusual for you. The earlier breast cancer is diagnosed, the more likely treatment is to be successful.
“Anyone concerned about a potential symptom of breast cancer can also call our free Helpline on 0808 800 6000. If you need someone to talk to, our expert nurses are just at the end of the phone.”
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