November is an important month for cancer awareness in the UK, with several national campaigns running to encourage early detection, share information, and support those affected by cancer.

At Mid Dorset Primary Care Network, we’re joining these initiatives to raise awareness about lung cancer, pancreatic cancer, and stomach cancer - all of which have their awareness months in November.

Early diagnosis saves lives, and by knowing the symptoms and seeking help quickly, we can all play a part in improving outcomes.

Lung Cancer Awareness Month

Lung cancer is one of the most common and serious types of cancer, but spotting symptoms early can make a real difference.

Key symptoms can include:

• A persistent cough that lasts more than three weeks

• Coughing up blood

• Chest or shoulder pain

• Shortness of breath or wheezing

• Unexplained tiredness or weight loss

If you notice any of these symptoms, please contact your GP practice. Not all coughs are cancer, but it’s always best to get checked.

You can learn more at - Lung Cancer Awareness Month

Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month

Pancreatic cancer often doesn’t cause symptoms until it’s advanced, which is why awareness and early recognition are so important.

Common symptoms may include:

• Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)

• Unexplained weight loss

• Tummy or back pain

• Indigestion or changes in bowel habits

• Loss of appetite

If you experience these symptoms for more than a few weeks, speak to your GP. It may be nothing serious, but it’s always better to rule out anything more concerning.

Find more information and support from - Signs and symptoms of pancreatic cancer - Pancreatic Cancer UK

Mouth Cancer Action Month

Mouth Cancer Action Month, led by the Oral Health Foundation, raises awareness of cancers that can occur in the mouth, tongue, lips, and throat. Early detection significantly improves the chances of successful treatment.

Be aware of the following signs and symptoms:

• Ulcers that do not heal within three weeks

• Red or white patches in the mouth

• Unexplained lumps or swellings

• Persistent sore throat or hoarseness

• Difficulty swallowing

Regular dental check-ups are vital, as dentists can often spot early signs of mouth cancer. If you notice any changes, don’t wait - see your dentist or GP.

Learn more at Mouth Cancer Action Month | Home | Oral Health Foundation

Early Action Saves Lives

We encourage everyone to be aware of changes in their body, attend cancer screening appointments when invited, and speak up early if something doesn’t feel right.

You’re never wasting your GP’s time - getting checked could save your life.

Together, by raising awareness and supporting one another, we can make a real difference to cancer outcomes in our community.

For advice and information on local cancer support services, please contact your GP practice or visit Cancer - NHS

Each November, men across the UK grow moustaches to spark conversations and raise awareness for men’s health. Known as Movember, this campaign is about more than facial hair — it’s about taking action for men’s physical and mental wellbeing.

At Mid Dorset Primary Care Network, we’re proud to support Movember and to shine a light on the key issues affecting men’s health: prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and mental health.

Why Movember Matters

Men are often less likely to seek medical advice or talk about health concerns. Early conversations and regular check-ups, however, can make all the difference. Movember is a reminder to look after yourself and those around you - whether that means booking a health check, reaching out to a friend, or simply starting a conversation about wellbeing.

Prostate Cancer: Know the Signs

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men in the UK. The risk increases with age, particularly for men over 50, and those with a family history or African or Caribbean heritage.

Common signs can include:

• Difficulty starting or stopping urination

• A weak flow

• Feeling like the bladder isn’t emptying fully

• Blood in urine or semen

If you notice any changes, please speak to your GP. Early diagnosis greatly improves outcomes.

Testicular Cancer: Regular Self-Checks

Testicular cancer often affects younger men — typically between 15 and 49. The good news is it’s highly treatable when caught early. Take a few minutes each month to check for lumps, swelling, or changes in the size or feel of your testicles. If something doesn’t feel right, don’t delay — book an appointment.

Mental Health: It’s OK to Talk

Men’s mental health is just as important as physical health, but many still find it hard to open up. You’re not alone, and help is available. Whether you’re feeling stressed, low, or overwhelmed, talking to someone — a GP, friend, or support service — can make a real difference.

If you need support, you can contact:

• NHS Talking Therapies – self-referral is available online.

• Samaritans – call 116 123, 24 hours a day.

• Mind Dorset – offering local mental health support and resources.

How You Can Get Involved

• Grow a Mo – take part by growing a moustache and raising funds or awareness.

• Move for Movember – walk, run, or cycle 60km over the month to represent the 60 men lost to suicide every hour worldwide.

• Start a Conversation – reach out to a friend or colleague and ask how they’re really doing.

Let’s Change the Face of Men’s Health

This Movember, let’s come together as a community to break down barriers, encourage conversations, and take positive steps for men’s health in Mid Dorset.

If you have any concerns about your health, please contact your GP practice. Your health matters — don’t put it off.

For more information about Movember, visit Movember | Changing the face of men's health - Movember

When you book an appointment at your local GP surgery, you’re supported by a whole team of health professionals - not just the GP.
At Mid Dorset Primary Care Network (PCN), our practices work together so you can get the right care from the right person, as quickly as possible.

What is a Primary Care Network?

A Primary Care Network is a group of local GP practices working in partnership to share staff and specialist services.
In Mid Dorset, this means we can offer a wider range of expertise close to home and make the best use of everyone’s skills.

Why this matters for you

• You can see the most appropriate professional for your needs.
• It can help you get an appointment sooner.
• You benefit from specialist knowledge for specific health issues such as joint pain, respiratory conditions, or long-term conditions.
• Our team works closely together, so your care is joined-up and well-coordinated.
• Our goal is to catch potential health issues early and provide support for any physical, mental or social challenges you might be facing.

Get to know your team

Here are some of the people you may meet when you contact your practice:

• Reception & Care Navigation Team – The friendly voices who guide you to the right person for your needs. Your information is always confidential.
• GPs (General Practitioners) – Look after complex or ongoing health conditions and lead treatment plans.
• Practice Nurses – Provide health checks, vaccinations, cervical screening, wound care and support for long-term conditions.
• Healthcare Assistants (HCAs) – Carry out blood tests, blood pressure checks, ECGs and other routine monitoring.
• Pharmacists & Pharmacy Technicians – Experts in medicines who review prescriptions, check for side-effects and support long-term condition management.
• First Contact Physiotherapists (FCPs) – Specialise in muscle, bone and joint problems and can often be booked directly.
• Paramedics – Support urgent home visits and some acute conditions.
• Mental Health Practitioners – Offer support for emotional wellbeing and mental health concerns.
• Frailty Team – Provide specialist support for care homes, helping to keep residents healthy, safe, and supported.
• Health & Wellbeing Clinic – A full holistic review of your physical, mental, and social health. We aim to catch any potential issues early and provide support for challenges you may be facing.
• Respiratory Specialist Service – Provides expert care for patients with respiratory conditions such as asthma or COPD.
• Social Prescribers – Help with non-medical support such as local activities, advice services, or groups to reduce isolation.

How to make the most of your GP practice

• When you call, share a brief reason for your appointment – it helps teams book you with the right professional first time.
• Use the NHS App or online services (where available) to request repeat prescriptions, check test results or book routine appointments.
• Ask us if you’re unsure – reception and navigation team are here to help.

Keep an eye on our socials

Over the coming weeks, we’ll be spotlighting some of the amazing members of our Mid Dorset PCN team on our social media channels.
Follow us to meet the people behind your care, learn more about what they do, and see tips for getting the most from your local GP practice.

We’re here for you

By working as a team across Mid Dorset PCN, we aim to give you faster access to the right care, make the best use of our clinicians’ skills, and keep your care local, joined-up and personal.

For more information about Mid Dorset PCN and the services we offer, visit:
Homepage - Mid Dorset Primary Care Network

To learn more about tthe roles in general practice watch this short video - General practice roles - Stay Well