National Cancer Research Institute Conference

[EmmaG]

So it was an exceptionally chilly start to our first day at the National Cancer Research Institute, in Liverpool.

Temperatures plummeted below zero overnight and there was a great deal of scraping ice off windows before we could hit the road to the conference venue.

However, I'm glad to say the reception here has been much warmer.

We are giving a sneaky preview of our new research grants, which will be officially launched in January.

We will be providing grants for research into the early detection of lung cancer and also patient experience.

Generally people at the conference seem surprised when we tell them that only 5% of cancer research funding goes towards lung cancer despite it having the highest mortality rates - and these people are cancer researchers themselves.

I think it just shows how important it is for us all to keep spreading the word about lung cancer because when you talk, people do listen.

[ericbyrne]

Hi EmmaG,

I am pleased to meet you,I am interested and looking forward to hear further news of new research grant awards in the pipeline.Interestingly ,the point you made about funding support being so low,last year I attended a conference at Stirling University sponsored by Cancer Research UK,there were on the speakers platform representatives from all the major political parties also a group of oncologists working in specific areas of cancer,noticeably absent was one from Lung Cancer.Each speaker made their presentation,telling us about funding improvements,progress in treatments and outcomes.Afterwards the audience were invited to ask the panel questions,well I asked why is it that more than 42,000 people die each year in the UK with Lung Cancer,which is a greater mortality rate than,breast,colon and prostate combinedand and yet it only receives 4% of the total research budget?.The answers I received might surprise you,quote-"Well its not a sexy cancer","It dosnt effect children" "Its largely self-inflicted"finally "Lung Cancer survivors make for such poor advocates for their cause".Well that last remark stung me more than the others,so I have made it my vocation to advocate for Lung Cancer at every opertunity that presents itself to me.

[JoannaHoyle Roy Castle in reply to ericbyrne]

Hi Emma and Eric

Thank you Emma for the update and I know you will be doing a brilliant job at the conference.

Eric, I am really appalled at the responses you were given at the conference in Stirling last year. You are a fantastic advocate for our cause and a heartfelt thank you for your comittment and resilience in the face of such ignorance. It is my passionate belief too that lung cancer needs to be prioritised on the government and public agenda for cancer improvement. The positive aspect of the responses you received is that we are aware of the peception and opinions of those who you would hope would know better and we can work towards breaking down the barriers and misconceptions out there. However, from experience we know the task is massive but we will continue to influence and campaign as strongly as we can with tenacity and vigour.

I am looking forward to meeting with you Eric at the conference in Manchester on 23rd November, have a good trip down South.