Throughout March, thousands of people across the country are taking part in Cancer Research UK’s 'Walk All Over Cancer' challenge, committing to walk 10,000 steps a day to raise funds for cancer research, writes Adam Dance MP.
It is a simple challenge, but one with a powerful message.
By getting active and raising awareness, people are helping support the research that is transforming how we prevent, diagnose, and treat cancer.
For many families in our communities, cancer is not an abstract issue.
It is deeply personal.
Almost everyone knows someone who has been affected by the disease, and that is why improving cancer outcomes must remain a national priority.
A crucial part of that effort is detecting cancer earlier.
Earlier diagnosis can dramatically improve survival rates and reduce the need for more intensive treatments.
That is why screening programs play such an important role in the NHS.
Recently, I submitted a written parliamentary question to the government asking what steps are being taken to expand cancer screening programs for people living in the Yeovil constituency.
The response highlighted several important developments.
One of the most significant is the expansion of lung cancer screening, which is already proving transformational in identifying cases earlier.
The program will be rolled out nationwide by 2030 so that every eligible person receives an invitation for a check.
By 2035, it is expected to diagnose up to 50,000 cancers, many at a much earlier stage.
There are also improvements planned for bowel cancer screening, which now covers people aged 50 and over.
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Enhancing the sensitivity of testing over the coming years is expected to lead to 17,000 earlier diagnoses and save almost 6,000 lives by 2035.
Later this year, the NHS will also introduce HPV self-testing kits for women who have missed cervical screening appointments, helping ensure more people can access potentially life-saving checks.
These steps are positive, but there is still more to do.
The Liberal Democrats have been clear that boosting cancer survival must remain a priority, including improving early diagnosis, investing in the cancer workforce, and ensuring patients can access treatment quickly.
Campaigns like Walk All Over Cancer are a powerful reminder that progress in tackling cancer relies on both research and awareness.
Whether it is raising funds, getting active, or attending screening appointments when invited, every action helps.
If you are taking part in the challenge this month, I wish you the best of luck - and remember that every step really does matter in the fight against cancer.
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