Campaign launched to explain symptoms

A recent survey commissioned by Pancreatic Cancer UK found that three quarters of people in Northern Ireland could not name a single symptom of pancreatic cancer.

The symptoms include tummy pain that can spread to the back, significant and unexplained weight loss, yellow skin or eyes or itchy skin (jaundice) and indigestion. Ms Bradley is joining the charity in its efforts to spread the word about the warning signs of the disease and is encouraging local people to find out more about the disease by taking part in its new symptoms quiz at www.pancreaticcancer.org.uk/symptomsquiz

Paula Bradley also attended Pancreatic Cancer UK’s parliamentary event at Stormont, when the charity launched its Patient Charter, which informs pancreatic cancer patients about the level of care they are entitled to in Northern Ireland. Setting out the expectations all pancreatic cancer patients should have for all aspects of their care, the booklet aims to ensure patients are equipped to gain the support they need at a difficult and confusing time.

Paula Bradley MLA said: “Pancreatic cancer is a disease which sadly affects many people in my constituency, and that’s why I’m dedicating my efforts to spreading the word about the symptoms during pancreatic cancer awareness month. I’m confident that local people will rise to the challenge of finding out more about the disease this pancreatic cancer awareness month.

“But our challenge is not just to improve awareness of this disease. It is also extremely important we work towards every patient receiving the best care and support possible, and the Patient Charter is a big step in the right direction to doing that.”