It is vital that every cancer patient receives information that is relevant to them, in a format that meets their needs, at a time when they can best take it in.

Cancer patients only remember 10% of what they are told during a consultation. Our publications help patients understand and remember more of what they’re told about their cancer and treatment options. They can also help to explain what is happening to families, friends and carers.

Each of our publications is reviewed and revised regularly to ensure that it’s accurate and up-to-date. This year we have continued to ensure the high quality of our material, while producing more new information than ever before. We have produced four completely new booklets and over 20 new factsheets.

Patients can access our information online 24 hours a day. Our website contains over 4500 pages of high-quality information, plus details of local and national resources for people with cancer. This year we’ve reached our target of publishing the answers to over 1300 questions that patients have asked us, and more are being added all the time.

Cancer genetics can sometimes receive sensationalist media coverage. As a result, many people are needlessly concerned that they may carry a ‘cancer gene’. Our genetics information project was set up to produce accurate information, to increase public understanding and reduce fear. This year we’ve produced the UK’s first cancer information for the ‘worried well’. The four-leaflet series aims to reassure the majority that family history is not a major risk factor, while ensuring the minority at risk seek referral to specialist genetic services. The leaflets go on to explain the real risk factors, such as age, obesity, and smoking.

We’ve also begun development of a unique online risk assessment programme for breast cancer. It will enable people to determine their own risk of developing breast cancer, by answering simple questions about themselves and their family history of cancer. Supportive information will be provided, along with advice on what to do next.

‘I found the website invaluable. It’s easy to read and helped me understand what I had been diagnosed with, how to tell others and what to expect from the health service.’
Sue Worsley, cancer patient