A former Manchester nurse, Julie Colville, is dedicated to helping people recognize the early signs of cancer. Her personal experience with cancer, coupled with her background in mental health care, has driven her to take on a crucial role in a £1.3 million project aimed at improving early detection of lung cancer among individuals with severe mental illness and intellectual disabilities.
Colville, 70, was diagnosed with lung cancer after experiencing a persistent cough, a symptom that can often be overlooked. This experience led her to understand the challenges faced by her former patients with additional needs during their cancer treatment journey.
"I want to help people spot signs of cancer early," she said. "Having gone through cancer myself, I know how critical it is that no one misses out on a chance that could save their life."
Colville's project focuses on bringing equality to healthcare access for those with complex needs. She highlights the difficulties her patients faced, often lacking the support of friends and family, and the lack of tailored cancer treatment options for individuals with severe mental illness or intellectual disabilities.
Cancer Research UK supports these claims, stating that people with severe mental illness or intellectual disabilities are more likely to die from lung cancer, the most common cause of cancer death in the UK. Dr. Lorna McWilliams, leading the project, emphasizes the importance of early detection and the need for practical solutions.
"Our aim is to develop co-designed interventions that can be implemented nationally," Dr. McWilliams said. "We will work directly with individuals impacted by mental illness and intellectual disabilities, alongside carers, clinicians, and policymakers to create effective strategies."
The project will include better support for informed screening choices and ways to reduce anxiety around investigations and treatment. Colville's personal journey and dedication to this cause inspire others to take action and prioritize early cancer detection, especially for those with complex needs.
