Virendra Sharma Backs Early Cancer Diagnosis Campaign
Ealing Southall MP meets Cancer Research UK team in parliament
Virendra Sharma MP got on board with the campaign to diagnose cancer, as Cancer Research UK’s Cancer Awareness roadshow made a special stop at Parliament.
The Ealing Southall MP met with the charity’s roadshow nurses and campaigners to learn more about how cancer affects people in his constituency.
The roadshow team travels the country helping the public recognise possible signs and symptoms of cancer and talking to people about the lifestyle changes they can make to reduce their cancer risk.
Virendra Sharma MP said, “1,300 people in Ealing, Southall are diagnosed with cancer every year.
“Early detection saves lives, so it was great to meet the roadshow team at Cancer Research UK and learn more about spotting cancer early, as well as the vital work being done to beat the disease.
“Events like this are important reminders we can all play a part in the fight against cancer, whether it be researchers, campaigners or the tireless fundraisers across Ealing, Southall who are helping to support life-saving research.”
Diagnosing cancer earlier – when it is more likely to be treated successfully - is a vital part of ensuring more people survive cancer.
The Government has made a commitment to diagnose 75% of cancer cases in England at stage one or stage two by 2028. However, to reach this target the NHS needs a long-term plan for the cancer workforce who deliver the crucial cancer tests and treatments people need. Without this, there will not be enough specialist staff to meet the present pressures or cope with the growing and ageing population.
Shaun Walsh, Head of Public Affairs and Campaigning at Cancer Research UK, said, “A big thank you to Virendra for coming along today and taking the time to learn about the challenges facing cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment today.
“We will soon have a new team in Government and whoever is in charge needs to ensure that improving survival from cancer in the UK is at the top end of their to do list. Put simply, we do not have enough key NHS cancer staff in post to diagnose and treat cancer soon enough. Cancer survival rates are lower in the UK than in comparable countries. The new Government must address this, so that everyone has the best possible chance of surviving this devastating disease.”
Cancer Research UK receives no funding from the UK government for its life-saving research. Every step it makes towards beating cancer relies on vital donations from the public.
Today, 2 in 4 people survive their cancer for at least 10 years. Cancer Research UK’s ambition is to accelerate progress so that by 2034, 3 in 4 people will survive their cancer for at least 10 years.
August 21, 2019