Thank you for contacting me about support for people with Sarcoma. I recognise the devastating impact that Sarcoma can have on those affected by the condition and their carers.
In particular, it is concerning that patients with Sarcoma consistently report poorer care experience compared to those with other cancer diagnoses in the National Cancer Patient Experience Survey.
Increased awareness of the signs and symptoms of Sarcoma is clearly vital to delivering earlier and more accurate diagnosis and improving outcomes from treatment.
While there are no specific plans for a national Sarcoma awareness campaign, NHS bodies have been promoting the “Help Us Help You” campaign to encourage people aged over 50 year old who are experiencing symptoms of sarcoma cancer - such as a lump, pain, abdominal discomfort and a cough – to contact their GP.
Sarcoma UK has highlighted the impact on Sarcoma patients of diagnosis and treatment on their mental health and wellbeing. It is important that the NHS delivers against the Long Term Plan’s commitment that all patients diagnosed with cancer – including those with Sarcoma - should receive a Personalised Care and Support Plan that evaluates their mental health needs.
Thank you also to those who have contacted me about the Sarcoma UK drop-in event on Wednesday the 19th of April. Whilst I am unable to attend the event due to prior Parliamentary commitments, I take a particularly close interest in health matters including cancer care, and I will continue to lobby ministers to improve outcomes for all cancer patients.
Thank you again for taking the time to contact me.
