Ayr, Carrick and Cumnock MP Allan Dorans is backing the first Less Survivable Cancers Awareness Day to highlight the critical importance of early diagnosis in improving survival and quality of life for people diagnosed with these cancers.

The Less Survivable Cancers Taskforce (LSCT) represents six less survivable cancers, lung, liver, brain, oesophageal, pancreatic and stomach, with an average five-year survival rate of just 16%. Together, these less survivable cancers make up nearly half of all common cancer deaths in the UK.

Less survivable cancers are difficult to diagnose and most of the general public are unaware of common symptoms. Data released by the LSCT in 2021 showed that awareness of the symptoms of the deadliest cancers is as low as 4% in the UK.

The Ayr, Carrick and Cumnock MP said: “I am pleased to speak out for people diagnosed with less survivable cancers and support the first Less Survivable Cancers Awareness Day.

“We know that early diagnosis is crucial and so it is vital that we raise awareness of the common symptoms of these cancers.”

Typical symptoms will vary but red flags for less survivable cancers could include any of the following; indigestion, abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, a loss of appetite, difficulty swallowing, a persistent cough, unexplained tiredness, headaches or nausea. The key message is to seek medical help swiftly if you notice anything is unusual for you.