Thousands of people should be seeking investigation for possible symptoms of cancer, campaigners say.
Research published today found that nearly half of those over the age of 50 reported experiencing at least one cancer "alarm" symptom.
But only 63% had sought help from a medical professional.
More than 2,000 people took part in the Surrey University study, published in BMC Public Health.
Amongst those who reported symptoms, the most common were persistent cough or hoarseness, changes in bowel habits and constant changes in bladder habits. Some 23% reported experiencing persistent cough.
The researchers, backed by Cancer Research UK, said they were seeking to establish the link between "body vigilance" and willingness to seek investigation of symptoms.
Researcher Dr Katriina Whitaker said: “In order to prevent the number of deaths in England from cancer, we need people to identify and understand changes in their bodies and not delay seeking medical help.
“Far too many cases of cancer are diagnosed at a late stage which severely reduces chances of survival.
"In this study 27% of those questioned had not yet sought medical advice on symptomatic signs of cancer which is very worrying.”
BMC Public Health 21 November 2016; doi: 10.1186/s12889-016-3846-7 [abstract]
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