15.10.10
Cancer survivor launches new charity
Pancreatic cancer survivor Ali Stunt (44) has launched Pancreatic Cancer Action (PCA) with the express aim of getting more patients diagnosed in time for surgery - the only current option for a cure.
As one of those involved in setting up the very first UK Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Week in 2009, Ali sees the need for heightened awareness of pancreatic cancer among the public and medical communities as vital if the poor survival rates for the disease are to be improved.
“Pancreatic cancer is very difficult to diagnose, said mother of two, Ali. “Once diagnosed, 82% of patients find they have untreatable terminal cancer, many dying within days or weeks of diagnosis. Shockingly, this figure hasn't changed in over 40 years. This is down to the fact that only 10% of patients present to specialists in time for potentially curative surgery. I am one of the few lucky survivors of this dreadful disease and my successful treatment has made me determined to do everything I can to improve the statistics.
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