Head and Neck Cancer Support Network Head and Neck Cancer Support Network

Tackling the Impact of Cancer on Health, the Economy and Society

Cancer causes one in four premature deaths in OECD countries. It damages people’s quality of life, their ability to work, and their incomes. Cancer increases health expenditure and harms the economy through reduced labour force participation and productivity. The economic and social costs of cancer will grow as populations age and cancer treatment costs increase. This report demonstrates the strong economic and societal case for investing in cancer policies. Microsimulation modelling for 51 countries (including OECD, European Union and G20 countries), shows that stronger action on cancer would yield broad benefits. If all countries did as well as the best performing country in cancer care, a quarter of premature cancer deaths would be prevented. Addressing key cancer risk factors – including tobacco, harmful alcohol use, unhealthy diet, air pollution, overweight and physical inactivity – would lower cancer rates and health expenditure, while also increasing workforce productivity. Co-benefits of such policies include improving road safety and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Vaccination for human papillomavirus will protect future generations from cervical cancer.

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Head and Neck Cancer Support Network Head and Neck Cancer Support Network

Piecing Us Together Again

"In our community, we face a profound gap in the care journey for those recovering from Head and Neck Cancer. Many patients who undergo life-saving treatments are left with disfiguring side effects, yet there is no reliable or affordable path to access facial prosthetics or oral rehabilitation. These services are essential to restoring dignity, function, and quality of life. The lack of survivorship care leaves many to navigate life with physical and emotional burdens that are entirely preventable. It's unacceptable that individuals who have survived cancer are left without the support to truly reclaim their lives."

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Head and Neck Cancer Support Network Head and Neck Cancer Support Network

Navigating the Rapids: Life After Head and Neck Cancer

As we approach World Cancer Survivors Day on June 4th, it's essential to recognise the unique journey of survivors of head and neck cancer. For many, survival is not the end of the story but the beginning of a new chapter filled with its own set of challenges and triumphs. As we come together as the Heads and Neck Cancer Support Network, it's crucial to shed light on the realities faced by survivors in our community.

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Head and Neck Cancer Support Network Head and Neck Cancer Support Network

Join Us in Supporting Cancer Patients: Help Us Print Patient Planners and Information Brochures

One of the essential tools we offer to cancer patients is our patient planners. These planners serve as invaluable resources, aiding patients in organising their appointments, medications, and important contacts amidst the whirlwind of treatments and consultations. They are not just notebooks; they are lifelines, offering structure and support during what can often feel like an overwhelming journey.

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What's Coming Up?

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