NHS prints cancer advice on shower gels

The NHS has joined forces with Morrisons to put advice on own-brand bath and shower products, urging shoppers to look out for possible signs of cancer.Shoppers will now see cancer advice on a range of nine new shower and bath products. The messages include “Be body aware” and “Know the signs of cancer”. Shoppers are being urged to look out for the signs and symptoms of cancer, such as lumps, swelling, skin changes and unexplained bruising. The products will start to appear in around 450 Morrisons stores and online in May.“Next time you lather up, take a moment to be body aware. If you spot anything unusual, contact your GP. In most cases it won’t be anything serious, but finding cancer early makes it easier to treat and can save lives,” the NHS said in a note. “This campaign is about turning an everyday routine into a simple health check reminder – helping people know their bodies better and spot possible signs of cancer earlier. In most cases it won’t be cancer, but if it is, finding it early can make all the difference,” Professor Peter Johnson, National Clinical Director for Cancer at NHS England, said.Morrisons is the first supermarket to roll out cancer awareness messages on bath and shower products as part of an NHS drive. An NHS spokesman said they are open to working with other supermarkets that may wish to add labels to their products.Public Health Minister Sharon Hodgson emphasised the importance of early detection. “Spotting cancer early can save lives, and this partnership is a simple but powerful way to encourage people to be more aware of their bodies. By placing these reminders on everyday products used by millions of people, the NHS and Morrisons are helping to make potentially life-saving advice part of people’s daily routines. This is a great example of business and the NHS working hand in hand to build a healthy Britain where everyone lives well for longer,” she said.“If you notice something unusual or that doesn’t feel right, please contact your GP practice,” she added.Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Cancer accounted for nearly 10 million deaths in 2020, which is nearly one in six deaths. The most common cancers are lung, breast, colon, rectum and prostate cancers. Early diagnosis and screening can save lives.