NEARLY nine out of ten people in the North-East and North Cumbria don’t link persistent heartburn with cancer, according to a new survey.

This surprising figure has been released to coincide with a new Be Clear on Cancer campaign across the region.

It urges people to visit their doctor if they have heartburn most days for three weeks or more.

Persistent heartburn could be a symptom of both oesophageal and stomach cancers.

Around 750 people in the North-East alone are diagnosed with oesophageal or stomach cancer each year and around 600 die from these diseases in the area annually.

Earlier diagnosis is key – the earlier cancer is diagnosed, the better the chances of successful treatment.

Dr Tony Branson, Medical Director, North of England Cancer Network, said: “It’s really important people are aware that persistent heartburn could be a symptom of cancer. Even if you’re taking medicine and it seems to help, you still need to see your doctor if you have heartburn most days.

“Chances are it’s nothing serious, but if there is something wrong, then finding it early makes it more treatable.”

Difficulty swallowing food is also a possible symptom of oesophageal and stomach cancers. Given this, the campaign also encourages people to go to their doctor if food is sticking when you swallow.

This regional campaign follows a successful local pilot in the North-East and North Cumbria in 2012.

Results showed the number of patients diagnosed with oesophageal cancer increased by more than a third (37 per cent), compared to the same time the previous year.

The four-week campaign will see adverts running on regional TV, radio and in the press with events taking place at football and rugby clubs across the area.