Let's Talk Cancer
It's Cancer Prevention Action Week, an opportunity to shine a spotlight on how we can reduce our risk of getting cancer. From lifestyle changes to conducting checks, there are many ways we can stay healthy. Every small change can make a difference.
In the UK, there were 168,873 cancer deaths in 2021, the latest year for which data is available. Of these cancer deaths, 89,625 were in men, and 79,248 were in women. That’s more than 462 deaths per day.
It’s notable that although cancer deaths have gone up since 2019 (when there were 166,502 recorded), this represents an increase of approximately 1%.
The most common cancers in the UK are listed below:
Every year, World Cancer Research Fund holds Cancer Prevention Action Week (CPAW), which focuses on empowering the public to reduce their risk of preventable cancers. This year's focus is alcohol and cancer.
Many people are not aware that drinking any amount of alcohol increases the risk of at least 7 types of cancer. There is strong evidence that all types of alcoholic drink can increase the risk of at least 7 cancers:
Breast | Bowel | Head & Neck | Oesophageal | Liver | Stomach
Plus, alcohol is high in calories and sugar, contributing to obesity — a known risk factor for 13 more types of cancer. Cutting back on alcohol – or, ideally, stopping entirely – is always a good idea for our health.
The most common cancers for women in the UK:
The most common cancers for men in the UK:
Cancer statistics based on combined data from England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales. World Cancer Research Fund, 2024.
If would like to share your experiences of cancer treatment and support with us call the team on 01432 277044 or go online.
