Early detection paves the way for healthier futures: Highlights from AHUK’s Cancer Day Event

Alliance Healthcare UK recently hosted an impactful World Cancer Day Coffee morning, shining a light on the urgency and importance of early cancer detection. The event was marked by compelling discussions, heartfelt stories, and resilience against this global health challenge.

"Never, never, ever give up."

The event kicked off with Matt Addison, Operation Director at Alliance Healthcare UK, presenting key cancer statistics that underscored the importance of early detection. His opening speech was filled with inspiring messages of strength, determination, and hope. He shared powerful phrases like "What doesn't kill us makes us stronger", "I can, and I will", and "Never, never, ever give up". These words set a strong theme for the event: standing strong against cancer and how early detection can save lives.

Jackie Lewis: A pillar in pharmacy

Pharmacist Director, and valued Alliance Healthcare customer, Jackie Lewis, provided invaluable insights from her own journey with cancer. Owner of Lewis Pharmacy in Exmouth for 19 years and an Alphega Pharmacy member, she encourages community pharmacists to support their patients on the cancer pathway.

Jackie has developed ‘Let’s Communicate Cancer’, a comprehensive training package for pharmacy teams that has received national accreditation from NHS. In collaboration with Alliance Healthcare UK, she introduced ‘Not Normal for You’—a service designed to enable pharmacy staff to identify early stages of cancer in patients.

Understanding cancer staging & trends

The importance of understanding cancer staging was highlighted during the event. With nearly half of all cancer cases diagnosed at stage 3 or 4—which is harder to treat—the goal set by NHS is to diagnose 75% of cancers at stage 1 or 2 by 2028.

38% of cancer cases are deemed preventable

With 38% of cancer cases deemed preventable, maintaining a healthy lifestyle was emphasised as crucial—non-smoking status, healthy weight management, nutritious eating habits, abstaining from alcohol consumption and sun safety are key preventive measures.

Regular screenings can help detect potential issues early; however, barriers such as embarrassment or fear often deter individuals from these important appointments—a concern discussed at length during the coffee morning.

Maximising opportunities within Pharmacy

Pharmacies are uniquely positioned to aid early detection—through over-the-counter conversations, consultations during vaccinations or simply asking about symptoms when customers buy medications. The 'Not Normal for You' service is one such initiative aimed at leveraging these opportunities for better patient outcomes.

“Cancer doesn't discriminate.”

Lee Garrett, National Account Manager – Hospitals, shared his personal experiences with cancer and the story of his friend Ben who has received 75 rounds of chemo and won’t stop until he beats Cancer.

His message was clear—if something doesn't feel right get it checked out without delay or embarrassment because "cancer doesn't discriminate". His recent challenge—to run 40 miles with family for Royal Marsden Charity—is a testament to showing support for those living with cancer and raising awareness of early detection.

Through hosting events like these and supporting patients via Alcura through their treatment process; Alliance Healthcare UK reaffirms its commitment towards creating healthier futures. This is more than just our purpose—it's a promise we live up to each day. United in our responsibility, we continue to take proactive steps forward in the battle against cancer, turning hope into action for a healthier tomorrow.