Taking Control of Cancer

In this episode Steve Bland and guests talk pancreatic cancer - a cancer often called the “silent cancer” because its symptoms can be subtle and easy to miss. But awareness can make a life-saving difference. 

Steve is joined by Alfie Bailey-Bearfield, Head of Influencing and Health Improvement at Pancreatic Cancer UK, and Rishi Athwal, Early Diagnosis Project Manager, North East London Cancer Alliance, to shine a light on one of the toughest cancers to detect.
 
Together, they discuss the key signs and symptoms everyone should know, along with the latest facts and statistics about pancreatic cancer in the UK. Alfie also shares exciting developments in research, including a new breath test that could transform early detection, and explains why spotting pancreatic cancer early is so critical.
 
The conversation also covers the work of EUROPAC, which looks at the role of genetics and family history in pancreatic cancer, and introduces Pancreatic Cancer UK’s Family History Checker, a tool designed to help people understand their own risk.
 
This is an essential listen for anyone who wants to understand more about pancreatic cancer, the importance of early diagnosis, and how we can all play a part in raising awareness.

For more information, visit the Pancreatic Cancer UK website: https://www.pancreaticcancer.org.uk/

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What is Taking Control of Cancer?

Welcome to Taking Control of Cancer, the podcast from the North East London Cancer Alliance. Think of us as your ‘how to’ guide when it comes to busting common cancer myths, overcoming fears and barriers, and improving cancer prevention, diagnosis, treatment and care.

This series aims to provide both patients and healthcare professionals with tangible things they can do to help when it comes to cancer. Whilst we know not all cancers are preventable, there are things we can all do that could make a positive difference to the health and wellbeing of our family, friends and colleagues.

There are two underlying themes across all episodes – the importance of early diagnosis, and reducing health inequalities.

Host:
Steve Bland is an award-winning podcaster and producer and one of the three presenters of the BBC podcast You, Me and the Big C, which was set up by his first wife - BBC presenter Rachael Bland - before her death from triple negative breast cancer in 2018.

Regular guests:
Dr Angela Wong, Chief Medical Officer, North East London Cancer Alliance:
Angela is a driving force behind improving cancer diagnostics for residents across north east London. As Chief Medical Officer for the North East London Cancer Alliance, Angela works tirelessly on delivering innovation and service improvements for cancer patients.

Femi Odewale, Managing Director, North East London Cancer Alliance:
Femi leads the programme teams from the North East London Cancer Alliance across three core areas of work: Early Diagnosis, Diagnosis and Treatment, and Personalised Care.