AROUND 1.2 million deaths have been avoided in the UK since the mid-1980s due to advances in cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment, according to new data from Cancer Research UK.

Over the last 4 decades, UK cancer mortality rates have fallen by around a quarter after peaking in 1985 for men and 1989 for women.

Had rates stayed the same, it is estimated that around 134,000 more lives would have been lost in the North West.

The figures have been released to coincide with the launch of the charity’s new campaign:- ‘Together We Are Beating Cancer’.

It aims to shine a light on the incalculable impact of such progress on people affected by the disease and their families.

The awareness and fundraising drive, which includes billboards and posters displayed across the North West, showcases the real and heartwarming moments such as big birthdays, anniversary celebrations, or simply quality time with loved ones, that research is making possible right now.

Cancer Research UK scientists are behind some of the biggest breakthroughs that have helped lead to falling mortality rates; from helping to prove the link between smoking and cancer and playing a role in around half of the world’s essential cancer drugs, to the development of radiotherapy and discovering cancer-causing genes. 

The charity’s spokesperson for the North West, Jemma Humphreys, said:- “The fact that so many lives have been saved in the region over the last 40 years is testament to the power of research and, as a result, a huge number of people have been able to reach milestones in their life they didn’t think they’d see. Thanks to the generosity and commitment of our supporters, we’ve played a key role in this progress. Together, we are beating cancer; our research breakthroughs mean every day, people are being diagnosed earlier, have access to kinder and more effective treatments, and some cancers are prevented completely. As our new campaign shows, this all adds up to more moments with the people we love; moments that we need help to protect so that future generations can live, longer better lives, free from the fear of cancer. That’s why we’re calling on people in the North West to help us go further and faster in the fight against the disease.”

Cancer Research UK’s analysis is accompanied by the findings of a new YouGov survey it commissioned of over 2,000 UK cancer survivors, looking at the moments and milestones that matter to them. It found some 41% said that experiencing a particular milestone, life event or personal interaction became more important for them following their diagnosis.

And while 81% of the cancer survivors who responded had positive emotions about their life in the future, such as feeling hopeful or happy, for some of these their overall emotions were mixed.

Despite large strides forward, and a more positive outlook for many, cancer remains the number 1 cause of death in the UK. And not all cancer types have seen improvements. For several forms of the disease, such as liver, head and neck, and womb cancer, there have been increases in mortality rates in recent years. 

Jemma added:- “Around 41,900 people are diagnosed with cancer every year in the North West; but sadly, not everyone diagnosed with the disease will reach key milestones in their life. By donating, fundraising, taking part in 1 of our Shine Night Walks, or volunteering at our shops, supporters across the region could fund new discoveries that will help more people reach the life-changing moment when their doctor says:- ‘It’s gone.’”

Donate now at:- cruk.org/donate 

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