Early detection saves lives: Why the King’s message matters and what we can all do now

This festive season, His Majesty King Charles III shared a deeply personal and powerful message about cancer - one that resonates strongly with everything we stand for at Check4Cancer.

Speaking candidly about his own experience, the King reminded us that while a cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming, early detection can transform outcomes, offering better treatment options, more time, and above all, hope.

It is a message worth pausing for - and acting on.

A national reminder we cannot ignore

In his statement, the King highlighted a sobering reality: around nine million people in the UK are not up to date with the cancer screening available to them.

That represents millions of missed opportunities to detect cancer earlier, when it is most treatable.

The evidence is clear. For example, when bowel cancer is caught at its earliest stage, around 9 in 10 people survive for at least five years. When diagnosed late, that figure falls to around 1 in 10. Early diagnosis quite simply saves lives.

The King’s words have struck a chord. Following his message and recent national awareness campaigns, the NHS has reported significant increases in public engagement with its screening and symptoms information, particularly online searches and visits to screening eligibility tools. While exact figures continue to evolve, it is clear that high-profile, trusted voices can prompt people to check, book, and act.

That momentum matters, and it needs to continue.

Why do people still delay screening?

Despite the benefits, many people put screening off. As the King acknowledged, concerns about embarrassment, discomfort, fear of results, or simply being too busy can all play a part.

Yet time and again, people who do attend screening say the same thing:

‘I’m glad I did.’

Most screening tests are quick, straightforward, and far less daunting than imagined. For many, the outcome is reassurance. For others, it is the opportunity for early intervention - when treatment is simpler, more effective, and less invasive.

From compassion to action

One of the most powerful parts of the King’s message was his call to move beyond sympathy alone.

“Compassion must be paired with action.”

At Check4Cancer, we could not agree more.

We exist to remove barriers to early cancer detection - whether that’s long waiting times, uncertainty about eligibility, or difficulty accessing specialist expertise. Our services are designed to give people clarity, confidence, and fast access to the next right step when it matters most.

What you can do this season

As we reflect on the year and look ahead, there are simple but meaningful actions every one of us can take:

1. Check what screening you’re eligible for

If you’re invited to NHS screening - breast, bowel, cervical or lung - take up the offer! These programmes save thousands of lives each year.

2. Don’t ignore symptoms

Persistent or unusual changes should always be checked. Early investigation can make a life-changing difference.

3. Take control if you’re concerned

If you’re worried about your risk, family history, or a specific symptom, you don’t have to wait. Accessing expert-led screening or diagnostic services can provide reassurance - or early answers.

4. Encourage someone you care about

Sometimes the nudge that matters most comes from a partner, friend, or family member.

Our seasonal message at Check4Cancer

This season, we echo the King’s words with a message of our own:

Early detection is a gift - to ourselves, and to the people who love us.

As the King so powerfully reminded us, your life, or the life of someone you love, may depend upon it.

If we can help you take that step, we’re here.