Thames Valley Cancer Alliance

12/11/2025

November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month:
Lung cancer is one of the most common and serious cancers in the UK — but early diagnosis saves lives.

We’re asking all health professionals and partners to help spread the message this month:
➡️ If a cough lasts more than 3 weeks, don’t ignore it — contact your GP for a check.

Watch real people share their powerful stories of hope and awareness: https://roycastle.org/this-is-alex-this-is-lung-cancer/

When Alex was diagnosed with lung cancer, his first thought was about his children. He wanted the chance to see them grow up.

07/11/2025

The moustaches are serious. The message’s even more so.
This Movember, let’s talk about the stuff men usually don’t — prostate, testicular cancer, and mental health.
A chat with your mate or your doctor could actually save your life. https://uk.movember.com/

03/11/2025

Healthwatch Oxfordshire is hosting a free online webinar on Tuesday 11 November, 1–2pm, all about local cancer care and support.
👉 Everyone’s welcome to join via Zoom: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89530281485?pwd=KRrlne22ogqafgDpa4D7BjXxunwEHZ.1
If you’d like to submit a question in advance, please email hello@healthwatchoxfordshire.co.uk

Save the date Tuesday 11th November from 1pm, for our latest public webinar, to learn more about local cancer care and support in Oxfordshire: https://healthwatchoxfordshire.co.uk/news-and-events/webinars/

Our webinars are free and open to all, giving you the chance to hear from speakers and ask questions. More details to follow.

31/10/2025

🌟 Stoptober 2025 – what a month! 🌟 Every cigarette avoided this month is a step toward better health and a lower risk of cancer. If you’ve stayed smoke-free for 28 days, you’re already five times more likely to quit for good. That means fewer cancers, stronger lungs, and more healthy years ahead. 👏 Here’s to the power of small steps making a big difference. https://www.nhs.uk/better-health/quit-smoking/

28/10/2025

🎉 One month smoke-free! 🎉 A huge milestone: 28 days without smoking means you’re five times more likely to quit for good. The longer you stay smoke-free, the more you lower your cancer risk. Here’s to a healthier future. https://www.nhs.uk/better-health/quit-smoking/

27/10/2025

Breast cancer remains one of the most common cancers, but outcomes aren’t equal for everyone. Women from minority ethnic backgrounds continue to face lower screening attendance, delayed follow-ups, and diagnostic barriers, increasing the risk of later-stage diagnoses.
Addressing these inequalities means tackling the underlying barriers - improving access, building trust, and ensuring culturally sensitive communication across all stages of care.
Together, we can make early detection and timely treatment a reality for every woman. More: Breast cancer in ethnic communities | Breast Cancer Now

25/10/2025

Black men face a significantly higher risk of developing and dying from prostate cancer, with approximately 1 in 4 being diagnosed compared to 1 in 8 for White men. Men can talk to their GP about prostate cancer risk and the pro’s and con’s of having a PSA test (simple blood test that checks for signs of cancer) from the age of 50 years, but men with Black ethnicity or family history should do this from age 45 years. Read more on increased risk factors at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/prostate-cancer/causes/

25/10/2025

Today is MDS World Awareness Day. Myelodysplastic syndromes are rare blood cancers—awareness helps patients get diagnosis and support sooner. Find out more: https://mdspatientsupport.org.uk/

24/10/2025

New video resources to support patients who use British Sign Language (BSL). Cancer screening is vital for early diagnosis—and now there’s tailored support to make sure no one is left out. Watch our BSL cervical screening short below or view the full set of videos at: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEm1CvSoQcDIhmLz0srHv5m59CkQwMzr5&si=vBEj6R26gYNEbPm5

21/10/2025

🌟 Three weeks smoke-free! 🌟 By now, cravings are easing and your lungs are thanking you. Every day without to***co cuts your risk of life-threatening cancers. Stick with it—you’re proving it’s possible. More: https://www.nhs.uk/better-health/quit-smoking/

17/10/2025

This October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Around 1 in 7 women will be diagnosed in their lifetime. Spotting symptoms early and accessing support can save lives. More at: https://breastcancernow.org/