Review diagnosis of blood cancer in young people

Background

Young people with leukaemia are often misdiagnosed as symptoms are mistaken for more common illnesses, and cancer is considered unlikely. The Government should review NHS guidance and training for healthcare professionals and access to blood tests when blood cancer is suspected.

Additional details

Blood cancer symptoms are often misdiagnosed, so many people are not offered a full blood count. This affects young people as blood cancer is considered unlikely at their age and they may appear healthy or cope with symptoms for longer. Delayed diagnosis means many patients present to hospital as an emergency, increasing pressure on the NHS. Improving guidance and education for HCP's would ensure blood tests are requested when blood cancer is a possibility, leading to earlier diagnosis.

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