Clan joins forces with Pancreatic Cancer UK and NHS Grampian for Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month

Clan Cancer Support is working with fellow charity Pancreatic Cancer UK and NHS Grampian to raise more awareness in the North-east about pancreatic cancer, the least survivable cancer in Scotland.  

The organisations are working in partnership to inform people about the symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options and support available to anyone who is worried about a diagnosis for themselves or a loved one. 

Representatives from Clan, Pancreatic Cancer UK and NHS Grampian will be at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary on Tuesday November 11 and Tuesday November 18 to raise awareness of the disease and speak to anyone who is worried about a diagnosis.  

Around 900 people are diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in Scotland each year with only a seven percent chance of people living for five or more years after diagnosis.  

In 2024, 75 people were diagnosed with the disease across the Grampian region.  

Scotland has one of the worst five-year survival rates for pancreatic cancer in the world, ranking 35th of 36 countries. 

Kay Johnston said: “Through our partnership working with Pancreatic Cancer UK and NHS Grampian, we’ve identified a need for people across Grampian to have more information about this devastating disease.  

“We hope our efforts to raise awareness about the symptoms gives people the knowledge and courage to seek medical advice and to talk to Clan about the physical and emotional support we can offer them and their loved ones.” 

Dawn Crosby, head of devolved nations for Pancreatic Cancer UK, added: “Despite being the deadliest common cancer, public awareness of pancreatic cancer remains worryingly low - both here in Scotland and across the UK.  

“Tragically, thousands of people a year are told it’s too late, that nothing can be done for them. Being diagnosed as early as possible provides the very best chance of having life-saving treatment. That’s why our work in partnership with Clan Cancer Support and NHS Grampian is so important.  

“We do not want people to panic if they have some or all of the common symptoms: such as back or tummy pain, indigestion, weight-loss or changes to their poo. Most people who do, will not have pancreatic cancer. But it is absolutely vital that more people learn about this disease, talk to their loved ones, and don’t put off seeing their GP if their symptoms persist for more than four weeks.”  

The organisations will also be sharing informative blogs on their social media channels with medical advice and guidance on what to do if you’re worried about symptoms as part of Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month (November).  

Dr James Milburn, consultant hepato-pancreatic biliary and general surgeon at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, said: “Pancreatic cancer is often diagnosed late and advances quickly. There’s currently no widespread testing available so arming people with the knowledge on what to look for and when to seek medical advice is absolutely key to ensuring early detection, which can significantly enhance the patient’s outcome.  

“We’re pleased to be working with Clan and Pancreatic Cancer UK as both organisations can provide meaningful support to those with a diagnosis and their loved ones. It’s our hope that by sharing information publicly and raising awareness we can give people the confidence to get checked when something doesn’t seem right.”  

For more information please visit: clancancersupport.org