Cancer Research & Tesco Unite to help spot cancer early

Spotting a lump under your skin is a frightening moment, but there’s no pain and it’s invisible - but most of all, it’s an inconvenience. You know you should get the lump checked out, but who has time to do that, especially for something that doesn’t even hurt (yet)? But getting symptoms investigated early can literally save lives. That’s why Food retailer Tesco and Cancer Research have teamed up, to encourage those experiencing unusual symptoms to get expert help while they do their weekly Tesco shop. Now those who find a lump, but don’t have the time to book a doctor’s appointment, can speak to an expert before they get their groceries. 

Tesco and Cancer Research want to break down healthcare barriers and empower customers

With the healthcare sector being overworked, many are afraid of ‘making a fuss’. But Cancer Research’s survey findings show that almost half of people experiencing possible symptoms of cancer didn’t contact their doctor within six months. Now, Tesco offers a springboard to take symptoms more seriously.

Cancer Research has provided Tesco pharmacists with specialist training in how to engage with the public about possible cancer symptoms and how important an early diagnosis is. 

However, other food retailers have tried hosting in-store clinics, with disappointing results. In 2019, Walmart opened Walmart Health, but made the decision to close its 51 in-store full-service health-care centres in April 2024. Walgreens also announced the closing of 160 of its VillageMD locations, after a US$6bn write-down in the value of its investment in primary care clinic chain.

Tesco’s health campaign to boost early diagnosis 

At Tesco, the health campaign will feature various resources and prompts to encourage shoppers to think about their symptoms and discuss them with an in-store pharmacist. 

Customers can have a private chat in a consultation room with a pharmacist before their weekly shop or they can book an appointment.

“Many of us will put off seeking advice on something that’s worrying us because we’re too busy, can’t get a GP appointment at a convenient time or simply don’t want to be seen as someone who makes a fuss,” shared Paul Pilkington, Head of Pharmacy at Tesco. “Being able to have a conversation with one of our pharmacists about a worrying symptom could help lead to a much quicker cancer diagnosis and the likelihood of a successful outcome.” 

Through its partnerships with three charities, the British Heart Foundation, Cancer Research UK and Diabetes UK, Tesco wants to improve the nation’s health. Together, they hope to tackle three conditions: 

• Heart disease: Heart Disease and Cardiovascular Diseases (CVDs) represent 32% of all global deaths.
• Cancer: One in five people develop cancer in their lifetime
• Type 2 diabetes: 95% of people with diabetes have type 2 diabetes.

“By 2040 there will be over half a million new cancer cases each year in the UK alone,” shared Michelle Mitchell, Cancer Research UK’s Chief Executive. “The earlier people are diagnosed, the better their chance of survival. That’s why it’s so important that we’re joining forces with Tesco to make it easier for people to get help if they notice something that is unusual for them. Tesco pharmacists are here to provide expert health information and support in a comfortable and convenient setting for customers. We are excited by the opportunity this gives to speed up diagnosis and save lives."  

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