Cancer Research UK nurses will be in Widnes this week as part of an awareness roadshow aimed at making public health information more accessible.

The event at the indoor market on Bradley Way is part of the charity’s continued commitment to patients and their families and is supported by the Marie Keating Foundation, which was set up by singer Ronan Keating in memory of his mother who died of breast cancer.

Nurses will be available on Thursday, May 13, to give tips and advice about how to reduce the risk of cancer and raise awareness of the different illnesses.

Ronan said: “It’s more important than ever that people know to contact their GP if they notice any changes to their bodies that are unusual or persistent and that there are lots we can all do to help reduce the risk of cancer.

“The roadshow helps to get these messages out to people as they go about their daily lives in town centres, shopping malls and community centres.

“My family and I are very proud to support the Cancer Research UK Cancer Awareness Roadshow and we think our mum would be pleased with the work we are doing.”

Cancer Research UK nurses will be on hand to talk about the importance of spotting early signs of cancer, when it is more likely to be treated successfully, and to support people in seeking help from their GP if they’ve already noticed that something isn’t quite right for them.

They will offer tips about making healthy changes to diets and lifestyles like stopping smoking, cutting down on alcohol and eating a balanced diet, to reduce the risk of cancer and they can also provide useful information about free local services giving help and support.

Covid-19 has caused disruption to cancer services across the UK, having impacted on screening and diagnosis, meaning conservations with trained professionals are more important than ever.

But, with the pandemic making it more difficult for people to get an appointment with their GP, the roadshow promises to give first hand advice and help.

Sandra Howard, Cancer Research UK senior cancer awareness nurse in the north west, said: “At a time when the world feels very different for many of us, it’s more important than ever that we continue to raise awareness of cancer.

“We are looking forward to talking to lots of people from Widnes about the steps they can take to help reduce their risk through changes like stopping smoking, reducing alcohol intake and keeping a healthy weight.

“Experts estimate around four in 10 cases of cancer could be prevented each year in the UK largely through changes like these.

“Cancer hasn’t stopped because of the pandemic and it’s vital that people continue to seek help for any unusual signs or symptoms.

“Treatment is far more likely to be effective when it’s spotted at an early stage, which is why it’s so important to listen to your body and to tell your doctor if you notice a change that isn’t normal for you.”

One topic nurses are keen to draw attention to is how to stop smoking as world no tobacco day will take place on Monday, May 31 this year.

Sandra said: “If you smoke, stopping is the best thing you can do for your health.

“Using prescription medication and support from your local free stop smoking service you’re around three times more likely to quit than going it alone.

“Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist or call the NHS Smokefree helpline on 0300 123 1044 to find out what will work for you.” Around 50,000 people visit one of Cancer Research UK’s four Cancer Awareness Roadshows each year and a full list of the locations is available by visiting cruk.org/roadshow