MP learns How to Spot Cancer Early

Banff & Buchan MP Eilidh Whiteford has teamed up with cancer awareness nurses at Westminster as Cancer Research UK’s Cancer Awareness Roadshow made a special stop outside the Westminster Parliament.

The SNP MP climbed on board to learn more about the steps people can take to reduce their risk of cancer and the importance of spotting it early.

Commenting, Eilidh Whiteford MP said:

“When cancer is diagnosed at an early stage, treatment is often simpler and more likely to be effective. I wholeheartedly support Cancer Research UK’s call to spot cancer early and want to help share the message with my constituents that early diagnosis can save lives.”

Senior Cancer Awareness Roadshow nurse Ceri Eames said: 

“We were delighted to have Eilidh on board helping us to spread the word.  More people are surviving cancer than ever before, but thousands of cancer deaths could still be prevented each year if more cancers were diagnosed and treated at an early stage.”

“If you notice any unusual or persistent changes in your body, visit your GP without delay. If it is something serious then finding it early could make all the difference.”

Smoking is the most important preventable cause of cancer and is responsible for one in four deaths from the disease in the UK.

During her visit Eilidh found out about how Cancer Research UK’s new campaign – The answer is plain – aims to discourage young people from starting to smoke.

Research shows that striking logos and distinctive packet designs make cigarettes more appealing to children, so the charity is calling for cigarettes to be sold in plain packs which all look the same and are stripped of their attractive branding.

Sarah Woolnough, Director of Policy for Cancer Research, said:

“Around 157,000 11-15 year olds start smoking every year so we must do more to make cigarettes less appealing to children.

“Girls are attracted to brands which have long, slim cigarettes with sophisticated names and glamorous packaging, while boys tend to respond to designs with a rugged, macho image. In an age when any parent tries to teach their children about the dangers of this deadly addiction, cigarette packs are sending a very different message.

“Over 80% of adults in the UK believe that children shouldn’t be exposed to tobacco marketing* so we’re urging MPs and their constituents to help us end the packet racket and give millions of children one less reason to start smoking.”

People in Banff & Buchan are being urged to sign Cancer Research UK’s campaign petition at www.theanswerisplain.org before the Government closes its consultation on plain cigarette packaging on the 10^th July.