Cancer survival rates in Barnet are amongst the highest in the country, according to statistics.

Research from Macmillan Cancer Support show 72 per cent of people diagnosed with cancer in the borough will live for more than a year following their diagnosis.

People are now being warned to be on the lookout for the signs and symptoms of the disease, including unexplained weight loss, unusual lumps or a persistent cough.

Dr Clare Stephens, cancer lead for NHS Barnet Clinical Commissioning Group, said: “Early diagnosis and treatment of cancer is a top priority for us.

“We are working to develop tools in general practice that aid early cancer diagnosis and working towards the goals in the national cancer strategy to improve cancer services.”

The NHS is urging people to have regular breast, bowel and cervical cancer screenings to help pick up changes.

Dr Stephens added: ”Stopping smoking, cutting down on alcohol and being a healthy weight all reduce the risk of developing cancer.

“The CCG works closely with local people, our NHS partners and public health in Barnet council to encourage local people to live healthier lifestyles.

“And it’s also about catching the signs and symptoms early. Research shows that identifying cancer early saves lives.”