CANCER Research UK nurses will be in Hexham for the last time this year as the Cancer Awareness Roadshow draws to a close.

The roadshow, which will be in Hexham Market between 10am and 4pm on Tuesday, October 26 and Wednesday, October 27, has already welcomed over 20,000 visitors across the UK since it returned in April.

Cancer Research UK nurses will be on hand to have conversations about the importance of spotting cancer earlier – when it is more likely to be treated successfully – and to support people to seek help from their GP if they notice anything that isn’t normal for them.

The nurses can also talk to visitors about ways to help reduce their risk of cancer by making positive health changes like stopping smoking, cutting down on alcohol and eating a healthy, balanced diet. They can help people to identify steps they feel able to take and signpost towards free, local services to support them, as well as providing information about cancer screening.

Visitors can access the roadshow anytime on the day to speak with the nurses and pick up information.

The roadshow is part of Cancer Research UK’s continued commitment to making health information as accessible as possible to everyone. It was launched in 2006 supported by the Marie Keating Foundation, which was set up by Irish singer Ronan Keating and his family in memory of their mum Marie who died from breast cancer.

Lesley Green, Cancer Research UK cancer awareness nurse manager in the North-East, said: “We’re here to help and are looking forward to talking to lots of people in Hexham about the steps they can take to help reduce their risk of cancer through changes like stopping smoking and keeping a healthy weight. Experts estimate around four in ten cases of cancer could be prevented each year in the UK largely through changes like these.

“Cancer hasn’t stopped because of the pandemic and it’s vital that people continue to seek help for any unusual signs or symptoms. Treatment is far more likely to be effective when it’s spotted at an early stage, which is why it’s so important to listen to your body and to tell your doctor if you notice a change that isn’t normal for you.”

One topic that the nurses are keen to draw attention to is breast cancer as October is breast cancer awareness month.

Lesley added: “One in seven women in the UK will develop breast cancer in their lifetime. But keeping a healthy weight and cutting down on alcohol are great ways to help reduce the risk of the disease.”  

Roadshows are subject to change. To view an up-to-date list of roadshow dates and locations, visit cruk.org/roadshow or follow the North-East roadshow team on Twitter @CRUKroadshow_NE