AN MP has backed a campaign to raise awareness of blood cancer and put it at the forefront of the Government’s cancer plans.

Pendle MP Andrew Stephenson attended an event organised by the blood cancer research charity Bloodwise at Westminster Hall on Tuesday, September 4.

He heard about the issues that face people with blood cancers like leukaemia, lymphoma and myeloma and spoke to patients about their experiences.

Andrew Stephenson MP said: “Despite being a common cancer killer, awareness of blood cancers among the general public and policy makers is low.

"It was really insightful to hear from people directly affected by blood cancers and to understand more about how care can be improved.”

Blood cancers are the fifth most common type of cancer in the UK and the third biggest cause of cancer death in the UK. Over 40,000 people are diagnosed with a blood cancer or related blood disorder each year in the UK.

Gemma Peters, CEO of Bloodwise said: ‘We are delighted that Andrew Stephenson is supporting our campaign to raise awareness of blood cancer. As 1 in 19 are affected by blood cancer it is vital that blood cancer is central to the Government’s cancer plans going forward.’

For more information on blood cancers visit www.bloodwise.org.uk