00:00 UK cancer mortality rates have fallen by around a quarter since the mid-1980s. This means
00:10 because of the power of science, research, the introduction of screening and new tests
00:17 and treatments in the NHS, 1.2 million more lives would have been lost to the disease
00:25 if we hadn't had these interventions. So very good news, also putting a powerful light on
00:31 the importance of science and research and giving people those extra moments with their
00:37 loved ones.
00:39 Analysis reveals that cancer mortality rates have fallen by a quarter after peaking in
00:43 1985 for men and 1989 for women. The falling mortality rates can be attributed to a number
00:50 of scientific breakthroughs, according to Michelle, Cancer Research UK's CEO.
00:54 Cancer Research UK funds 50% of all publicly funded cancer research and that's because
01:00 of the generosity of the great British public and we put their money to great effect. We
01:06 fund 4,000 scientists, researchers, clinicians and nurses who are dedicated to understanding
01:15 more about cancer and how better to prevent, diagnose and treat it because we know through
01:21 prevention, through early diagnosis and kinder treatments that not only will more people
01:27 survive cancer but will have a better quality of life and of course share those important
01:33 moments that matter to them with their families and loved ones.
01:38 More than half a million lives have been saved from lung cancer, with stomach, bowel and
01:42 breast cancer also seeing large improvements in mortality rates. While the new analysis
01:47 paints a positive picture, the progress isn't equal for all cancers, with cancers of the
01:52 head and neck and liver seeing a rise in the rate of deaths.
01:56 Some very good ingredients in the pot so we should be optimistic about the future but
02:01 I am worried. I am worried because government has to commit to funding cancer research at
02:09 a sustainable level. We can't be solely reliant on the generosity of the British public and
02:15 when you look at the NHS, we are seeing today cancer patients waiting incredibly long time,
02:22 at a time which of course is very anxious for people, for their tests, treatment and
02:27 diagnosis of cancer. So we need to see government step in and fund the NHS effectively to make
02:35 sure those treatments that are being developed are delivered to people as quickly as possible
02:39 and make sure that there is the workforce and the kit there so that people aren't waiting
02:44 and getting speedy access to treatment.
02:47 With the national health system and research environment under enormous strain, Cancer
02:51 Research UK is calling for strong political leadership as well as an ambitious strategy
02:56 for the NHS and cancer research to ensure these trends continue in the decades to come.
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