Chris Green MP is spreading the word about the vital need for more funding for pancreatic cancer research, and calling on local people to know the symptoms of the disease.
At a special reception in Westminster hosted by the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for pancreatic cancer to mark Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month, the MP heard that around 500 people in the North West are diagnosed with the disease each year. In the UK, just five per cent of patients will live for five years or more after diagnosis. Yet, over the last decade, the disease has only received one per cent of the UK’s cancer research budget.
Chris also heard the results of a recent survey commissioned by Pancreatic Cancer UK, which found that three quarters of people across the UK were unable to name a single symptom. Symptoms include tummy pain that can spread to the back, significant and unexplained weight loss, yellow skin or eyes or itchy skin (jaundice), oily floating poo and indigestion.
The MP said: “Pancreatic cancer is a disease which sadly affects many people in Bolton West and Atherton, and that’s why I am calling for increased research investment into the disease, and encouraging people to know the symptoms.
“It is crucial that this disease attracts more funding for research, so new and more effective tests and treatments can be created. At the same time, we all need to raise awareness of the symptoms of pancreatic cancer – I was shocked to hear how few people are able to name a symptom.”
Alex Ford, Chief Executive of Pancreatic Cancer UK said: “We are delighted that Chris Green MP has joined us in taking on this tough disease together. So little progress has been made for patients and their families in decades. In fact, survival rates for the disease have barely improved in over 40 years. This is partly due to a pitiful lack of research which has meant we have not seen the developments in tests and treatments which we have in so many other cancers in that time.
“This simply must change, so it is great to have Chris Green MP’s support in our ongoing efforts to increase pancreatic cancer research funding. His support will also be vital in helping us raise awareness about the symptoms. We are urging people in Bolton West to join us by taking part in our new symptoms quiz, and sharing that crucial knowledge with their loved ones.”