Cancer survival targets raised

DEBBIE Abrahams is backing a drive to help save more lives across Oldham and Saddleworth.

The Oldham East and Saddleworth MP joined Cancer Research UK scientists in Westminster to find out more about the charity’s inspiring ambition, which aims to see three out of four cancer patients survive at least 10 years.

She took part in interactive experiments with cancer researchers, learning about the biology of cancer and cutting-edge work to bring forward the day when all cancers are cured.

Debbie said: “There have been significant steps forward for cancer patients. More people are surviving the disease and living longer. But there is more to be done to help people beat cancer.

“It is disappointing that in recent years the percentage of patients starting treatment within two months of referral has fallen. I support Cancer Research UK’s aim to improve survival through both the earlier diagnosis of cancer and greater and speedier access to the best treatment possible.”

Currently, two in four people diagnosed with cancer in the UK surviving for at least 10 years, compared with one in four in the 1970s.