Thoughts from Chairman George For years the very tone of the word Cancer has been dark. Mentioned only in hushed tones. A condition from which survival was nearly considered only as an act of benevolence by a Godly presence, or at least a minor miracle. Times have changed. Due to massive investment in research by commercial, medical and charitable organisations. For many years, we in the UK could be forgiven for believing that the only dominant cancers in the public domain were attributed to the female sex, particularly breast cancer. In later years, and especially in the new millennium the British public have been made aware of cancers affecting both male and females, and statistics are available showing the range and volume of cancer patients their survival rates and mortality figures. On a personal note, I can remember that even in 1990 when I was diagnosed with stomach cancer and underwent an operation to remove my entire stomach (Total Gastrectomy), the survival figures, post surgery, and the 5 year remission period were depressingly low. Post Gastrectomy care was limited and in many cases, hit and miss. I believe that these days with increased use of the internet, more positive information is being made available to the general public. From personal experience I know that the mortality statistics can be pessimistic with stomach cancer, unless it is diagnosed and treated at an early stage. Stomach cancer can remain dormant for many years until it becomes inoperable or spreads into other parts of the body. There is evidence that stomach cancer is not always established as a cause of death, because due to the possibility of this disease lying dormant and untreated the cancer can spread to other organs in the body. I have often thought that stomach cancer statistics are like an iceberg; we know what is on the surface, but not what lies underneath. Early detection is imperative if we are to change the present figures on mortality and survival. I would urge people who display persistent symptoms to take the advice given by the pharmaceutical companies on their medication to contact their GP if the symptoms persist. Once upon a time it was accepted that business men and women leading stressful lives would develop a stomach ulcer.Hopefully those days are gone - early symptoms which could suggest a number of conditions should never be ignored, don't ignore the signs, it is better to establish the cause, then just treat the symptoms. S.C.A.N. UK as a charity is in its infant stage. In the future, literature will be available in every GP practice in the United Kingdom. We also plan further advertising and poster campaigns and to introduce a 'Help Line'. Funding is a major feature and I believe that public contribution to existing charitable organisations is stretching the public purse to unacceptable levels. S.C.A.N. believes that there are enormous resources available from the commercial and industrial sector as well as certain institutions that will enable us to continue and progress without further demands on the public. From acorns grow oak trees. Back to top | 
