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People could be putting their lives at risk by dismissing potential cancer warning signs as less serious symptoms, according to a Cancer Research UK-funded study. Fifty-three per cent of the 1,700 people surveyed said they had experienced at least one red-flag cancer 'alarm' symptom during the past three months, but only two per cent considered cancer as a possible cause.

The results revealed that people rarely attribute signs such as an unexplained cough or a persistent change in bowel habits to cancer, but dismiss them as less serious ailments like an infection or piles. €Making that doctor's appointment is important,€ said Sara Hiom, director of early diagnosis at Cancer Research UK. €It's not a waste of time for the GP or the patient €“ it really could save your life.€