North West Cancer Research launches campaign to encourage local people to spot early signs

A new report reveals that cancer death rates in Merseyside are 20% above the national average, prompting calls for residents to be aware of early warning signs.

The report, released by North West Cancer Research, highlights significant concerns around cancer mortality rates across the region, with Merseyside showing some of the highest figures in England.

In the North West, only Cumbria has higher cancer death rates than Merseyside, with an alarming 33% above the national average.

Merseyside residents are particularly vulnerable to lung cancer, with a mortality rate 56% higher than the rest of the country, while deaths from stomach and liver cancers are also substantially higher, at 32% and 21% above national norms, respectively.

Across the North West, the region records above-average death rates for 13 of 18 key cancers, compared to the national average, including:

Lung, trachea, and bronchus cancers: 28% higher
Oesophageal cancer: 19% higher
Bone cancer: 19% higher
Liver cancer: 16% higher
Stomach cancer: 11% higher

According to the report, deprivation in Merseyside is a significant factor, with unemployment levels in the region standing at 9% – two percent higher than the national average.

These socioeconomic conditions are linked to higher rates of cancer diagnoses in lung, liver, and skin cancers in Merseyside.

Gordon Nash. Image provided by North West Cancer Research

One of the supporters of the report’s message is Gordon Nash, a cancer survivor from Wigan, who was diagnosed with oesophageal cancer in 2018.

His experience highlights the importance of early detection. “I had been shaving one day when I noticed a very small lump on the side of my neck. I assumed it was nothing but went to the doctor anyway,” Gordon said. “Being told you have cancer is something you hope you’ll never hear, but because my cancer was caught early, I was able to get treatment quickly. I’m now five years free from cancer.”

North West Cancer Research’s Our Cancer Rates campaign is working to raise awareness of cancer signs and symptoms and the importance of getting checked early. Alastair Richards, CEO of North West Cancer Research, says the region needs targeted efforts to address these concerning statistics.

“As a charity dedicated to the region, it is saddening to see such a stark difference in cancer mortality rates,” Richards said. “No one should be more at risk of cancer simply because of where they live. While we have excellent medical facilities in the North West, early detection is critical. By knowing the signs and acting quickly, we can improve outcomes and move closer to a future where cancer rates no longer disproportionately affect our region.”