#GetChecked for Cancer

Checks have been popping up all over Scotland as a new campaign to highlight the importance of finding cancer early gets underway.

#GetChecked, which forms part of Scotland’s effort to turn the Big C into the wee c, aims to make check patterns synonymous with early cancer detection. The idea is that every time someone sees a check, they think about visiting their GP if they have concerns, attending screening when invited, or encouraging a loved one to do the same.

Finding cancer early remains key to boosting cancer survival rates – around 1,000 deaths could be avoided each year if Scottish cancer survival matched the best in Europe. A host of organisations and people the length and breadth of the country have already backed the Scottish Government and Cancer Research UK drive by proudly displaying their colourful checks.

Retailer M&Co kick started the campaign, emblazoning their stores in check and early detection information to build belief that finding cancer early saves lives. Staff at Cancer Research UK stores across Scotland are also busy raising awareness of the importance of early detection with customers, taking checked selfies and handing out leaflets to shoppers.

Statistics show that the likelihood of surviving breast cancer is five times higher if detected at an early stage compared to a late stage, 14 times higher for bowel cancer and 20 times higher for lung cancer. Speaking at the launch of #GetChecked, Health Minister Shona Robison said: “We know more about cancer today than ever before, and thanks to early detection, research breakthroughs and treatment advances, half of men and women now survive cancer in Scotland.

Early detection is one way we can all help turn the Big C into the wee c, and we’re calling on the people of Scotland to show their support by wearing their checks.” Tweet your checked selfie using #GetChecked – and visit theweec.org for more information.