Cancer Research UK says Charles’ cancer message led to tens of thousands of people visiting Screening Checker tool
A charity has confirmed there has been a significant increase in public engagement with cancer screening information following King’s latest health update.
Cancer Research UK reported: new ‘Scan Checker’ tool It has attracted nearly 100,000 visitors since its launch on December 5.
The online resource helps individuals identify relevant cancer screening options available through the NHS and Public Health Agency of Northern Ireland.
The vast majority of those visits came after King Charles announced plans to scale back cancer treatment in the new year during his Stand Up To Cancer live show on Friday.
“This response shows how important open conversations about cancer can be,” Michelle Mitchell, chief executive of Cancer Research UK, said in a statement on Saturday.
“It’s not always easy to know which scan you’re eligible for and what happens next, which is why we’ve launched this simple new Scan Checker.
“Taking just a few minutes to check which screening you are eligible for can go a long way towards protecting your health and ultimately saving lives.”
In a video message supporting the Stand Up to Cancer campaign, Charles said early diagnosis allowed him to “continue to live a full and active life, even while receiving treatment”.
But the King said he was “deeply distressed” to learn that at least nine million people in the UK were not up to date about the cancer screenings available to them.
In his video message, Charles paid tribute to the specialists, nurses, researchers and volunteers who treat and support cancer patients, saying he was “deeply moved” by their work.
During the festive season, he asked people to join him in finding “a special place in your hearts” for the hundreds of thousands of people diagnosed with cancer each year across the country and those who care for them.
Charles revealed in February 2024 that he had been diagnosed with a form of cancer.
Although Buckingham Palace never specified what type of cancer he had, officials said it was “a matter of particular concern” that it was discovered following treatment for an enlarged prostate.
