All Policies Include Coronavirus Cover
Call for an instant quote 0345 90 80 161
Open Mon to Fri 09:00 - 17:30
Coronavirus FAQs
Questions about cover for coronavirus? Read our FAQs and find out what our policies can do for you. If you would like to contact us, please note we are currently only available 09:00 to 17:30 Monday to Friday due to reduced operational capacity. Thank you.
27 January 2015 09:15
Having heartburn most days for three weeks or more can be a sign of cancer, according to a health campaign.
People are being urged not to ignore heartburn as it could be a sign of cancer if the condition persists.
The chances are it will be nothing serious, but people who have heartburn for three weeks are being encouraged to see their GP to either put their mind at rest or seek treatment at the earliest opportunity if cancer is diagnosed.
The Be Clear on Cancer campaign has been launched with the warning that persistent heartburn could be a sign of oesophageal or stomach cancer.
But a poll conducted to coincide with the launch revealed only half (55%) would seek advice from their doctor if they had heartburn most days over a three-week period.
Early diagnosis for such cancers is crucial for treatment to be a success, with two-thirds surviving for at least five years if it is diagnosed at the earliest stage, while only 3% do so if it is diagnosed at a late date.
With cancer treatments improving, it is becoming possible for patients who feel up to it to lead a more normal life, including taking a holiday. For those with the disease who are considering a trip abroad, they can ensure peace of mind by getting cancer travel insurance.
Oesophageal and stomach cancer statistics
There are around 12,900 new cases of cancer of the stomach or oesophagus, which is more commonly known as the gullet or food pipe, every year in England The two cancers cause more than 10,200 deaths every year While men and women can get the cancers, they are more common in men and are also more likely in people over 50 The new poll found more than half (59%) did not know heartburn could be a sign of cancer Among the other symptoms is difficulty swallowing food The two cancers, also known as o esophago-gastric cancers, are the fourth most common cause of cancer death in men and the fifth most common cause for women with cancer.
What the NHS says
As the campaign suggests, early diagnosis is the key focus for the NHS which wants people to take action if they have an ongoing heartburn problem.
Sean Duffy, who is national clinical director for cancer at NHS England, said: "Patients with possible early signs and symptoms should visit their GP so where necessary they can be referred for tests, and treatment can start quickly."
28 February 2020
From tulip-filled trips to rose-tinged rests, these destinations are the perfect way to see in the new season.
[more...]
04 January 2021
Join us on a journey to Ancient Greece to discover more about history's most revered statue.
Head north for a light show like no other. Discover how you can see the Northern Lights for yourself.
Discover more about the magnificent waterfall perched on the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe.
10 December 2020
Don't sleep on the world's most impressive dormant volcano.
A destination that stands head and shoulders above the rest.
19 November 2020
Take a tour of one of South America's most captivating natural landscapes.
Discover the hidden depths of the world's most recognisable desert gorge.
It's the question on everyone's mind right now - unfortunately, there's still no easy answer...
Discover why planes are more hygienic than you might think.
Dive into Queensland's colourful coral.
02 November 2020
With the global travel industry slowly getting back on its feet, it's a great time for holiday bargain hunters. Here are our top tips for 2021.