The UK shine purple lights to mark World Pancreatic Cancer Day
To mark World Pancreatic Cancer Day on 17th November 2016, more than 100 iconic structures and landmarks, including Portsmouth Cathedral, The Kelpies, Titan Crane and the Royal College of Physicians, in the UK will shine a bright purple light on pancreatic cancer as part of the Purple Lights for pancreatic cancer campaign.
By lighting up, the individuals and organisations involved are showing their support for people with pancreatic cancer and to remember those who have sadly died of the disease, whilst also raising awareness of a disease that suffers from a chronic lack of awareness and funding.
Over 9000 people are diagnosed with pancreatic cancer each year in the UK . Sadly, only 5% of those diagnosed with pancreatic cancer live for five years or more, and pancreatic cancer needs and deserves more recognition than it currently has.
Nic Dakin, MP for Scunthorpe and Chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group on Pancreatic Cancer said: “Purple Lights for pancreatic cancer is a striking and effective way to raise awareness of pancreatic cancer in November. One person dies of pancreatic cancer every hour, and the disease has the lowest survival rate of all the 21 common cancers, so it is vital that people find out more about it. We’d like to thank all those who are supporting the campaign and helping to light up the UK in purple this November.”
Purple Lights is supported by charities Pancreatic Cancer Action, Pancreatic Cancer UK, Pancreatic Cancer Scotland, Operation Henry and CORE. The campaign calls on focal points in villages, towns and cities to light up purple in November, which is Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month. More information about the campaign and a map of the landmarks taking part can be found at purplelightsuk.org.
Buildings, landmarks and venues lighting up purple to raise awareness of pancreatic cancer has become increasingly popular over the last few years in the UK. Largely organised by individuals affected by the disease, over 60 places lit up in 2015 including SSE Hydro, Blackpool Tower, First Direct Arena and Spinnaker Tower. Purple is the colour associated with pancreatic cancer across the globe. and this is an activity supported by pancreatic cancer charities in the UK, including Pancreatic Cancer Action, Pancreatic Cancer Scotland and Pancreatic Cancer UK.