PEOPLE noticing blood in their urine should tell their doctor straight away, even if it has happened only once.

Blood in urine is usually the result of a urinary tract infection, but can indicate a more serious problem in five per cent of people.

The advice comes from NHS Eastern Cheshire Clinical Commissioning Group, which is supporting a national Be Clear on Cancer campaign to tackle bladder and kidney cancer, which kill 7,500 people in England each year.

Twenty seven people from Eastern Cheshire were diagnosed with bladder cancer in 2013/14, and the comparable figure for kidney cancer was 20.

Dr Mike Clark, a GP and member of NHS Eastern Cheshire CCG’s governing body, said: “If you notice any blood in your pee, even if it’s just once, tell your doctor straight away. The chances are it’s nothing serious but these cancers are more treatable if found early.”

Blood in urine is the most common symptom of both types of cancer. Other common symptoms include anaemia and unexplained weight loss.

Dr Clark said: “You’re not wasting anyone’s time by getting your symptoms checked out and, if it’s not serious, your mind will be put at rest. But if it’s a condition such as kidney or bladder cancer, early detection makes it easier to treat. Seeing your doctor early could save your life.”

For more information visit www.nhs.uk/bloodinpee.