Brain Tumour Research this week attended Cancer52’s manifesto launch at Westminster.
The manifesto, titled The Other Half: A manifesto to transform outcomes for people with rare and less common cancers, was introduced by Cancer52 CEO Jane Lyons. It was so named because nearly half (47%) of all cancers diagnosed are rare or less common, and 55% of all cancer deaths are from rare or less common cancers.
The manifesto aims to raise the voice of those with these cancers. Jane said it was “the passion of the Cancer52 community that brings the charities together, under so many circumstances, to be heard with one voice”.
Cancer52’s manifesto sets out three priorities:
- To reduce the number of deaths from rare and less common cancers by 15% by 2040, saving 80,000 lives, and address health inequalities that contribute to poorer outcomes
- Increase early diagnosis of rare and less common cancers which will improve patient experience, quality of life and help save more lives
- To call for a new national mission on rare and less common cancers with patient involvement at its core
You can read the manifesto here.
The launch was hosted by former Health Minister and supporter of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Brain Tumours Will Quince MP.
The former Minister said the focus needed to be on public awareness, knowing the symptoms, early diagnosis and treatment pathways. Mr Quince added: “The life sciences are a real passion of mine, and we need to make sure this sector flourishes – which means patients here in the UK are getting the latest treatments and therapies.”
Our Policy and Public Affairs Manager Thomas Brayford (pictured above with Mr Quince) said: “We welcome Cancer52’s latest manifesto, which helps to shine a light on rare and less common cancers. The other half now needs to be listened to.”
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