What did BBC presenter David Cowan discover after his 50th birthday?

David Cowan discovered a painless lump in his neck shortly after celebrating his 50th birthday.

How did David Cowan's early cancer detection help him?

His early detection via a prompt GP visit and NHS checks provided a 90% chance of successful treatment for his rare mouth cancer.

What is the Be the Early Bird campaign about?

The Be the Early Bird campaign aims to raise awareness for mouth cancer and encourage people to seek medical help for worrying symptoms.

Home / Health / TV Journalist's Lump: A Life-Saving Discovery

TV Journalist's Lump: A Life-Saving Discovery

28 Nov, 2025

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Summary

A BBC presenter found a neck lump weeks after his 50th birthday.
He credits prompt GP visit and NHS checks with saving his life.
Early detection of his rare mouth cancer offered a 90% success rate.

TV Journalist's Lump: A Life-Saving Discovery

A TV journalist, David Cowan, is urging the public to seek medical attention for any worrying symptoms after his own experience with a neck lump discovered shortly after his 50th birthday. Initially dismissing it, he consulted the NHS website, which advised prompt GP consultation for persistent, painless lumps.

His GP's swift referral led to a diagnosis of a rare mouth cancer. Thanks to early detection by NHS Lothian specialists, Cowan was informed of a 90% chance of successful treatment. Despite a challenging five-month recovery period, he is now in remission and emphasizes the critical role of early intervention.

Cowan advocates for awareness, especially concerning HPV-linked mouth cancers, and encourages everyone to overcome fear and seek medical help. His experience, supported by the NHS and loved ones, highlights how early diagnosis dramatically improves prognosis and allows for a full life afterward.