Agenda item

Kaye Mann, Public Health Specialist Practitioner, BMBC, and Emma Bates, Commissioning and Transformation Manager, Barnsley CCG were welcomed to the meeting.

Members were reminded that 1 in 2 people get Cancer in their lifetime and that potentially 600 new cancers could be postponed or prevented each year in Barnsley.   Members heard that the leading causes of death from cancer in Barnsley are lung, prostate and breast cancer.

It was noted that living a healthy life did make cancer less likely, including being smoke free, keeping a healthy weight, and being more active.

Those present heard of the importance of early diagnosis, which lead to an improved chance of surviving cancer.  The importance of attending screening was also stressed.

Attention was drawn to the signs and symptoms of common cancers and the need for residents to have themselves checked if they experienced these symptoms, or experience any changes and were unsure.

An overview of behavioural insights and nudge theory was provided, and examples provided of where this could be utilised to increase numbers accessing cancer screening.

Members heard of the behaviour science trial being conducted.  Based at the food bank in the Dearne, this would see staff and volunteers speak to clients, and where appropriate offer to refer to Care Coordinators at GP surgeries.  They would then be able to proactively book appointments. It was noted that that promotion of the trial would commence shortly, and, if successful, elements could be rolled out across the borough.

The meeting heard of the support services available for those recently diagnosed with cancer living in a Barnsley postcode or accessing services at a Barnsley Hospital.

Members were asked to promote healthy lifestyle messages, raise awareness of the signs and symptoms of cancer and encourage the uptake of screening. The message of consulting a GP if something did not feel right was also emphasised.  It was noted that GPs were extremely busy, but it was suggested that awareness could be raised that if residents highlighted that their symptoms may be linked to cancer, this would help prioritise appointments.

Those present discussed the difficulties in securing an appointment with a GP, and it was agreed that these would be fed back to the CCG.  It was also agreed that figures relating to the number and shortage of GPs in the area be circulated to Members.

However, it was felt important to retain some of the advances made during the pandemic, with telephone and email contact being useful in certain situations.

Members discussed the high mortality rates of those age under 75 in the South Area and the need to promote access to screening and to GPs especially to groups less likely to engage.

RESOLVED:-

(i)           That thanks be given for the information presentation; and

(ii)          That Members support the work to improve cancer detection rates as highlighted;

(iii)        That figures in relation to the number of GPs in the area to be circulated to Members.