Can we catch it earlier? Pancreatic cancer awareness and public perspectives

Pancreatic cancer is one of the most challenging cancers to treat successfully, with survival rates in the UK remaining stubbornly low for over 40 years. Symptoms are often vague and overlooked until the disease is advanced, so raising awareness and improving early detection are vital.

Join PhD researcher Hugh Claridge at the University of Surrey, along with the Pancreatic Cancer Action charity, for a free event exploring the work being done to move closer towards early detection. 

Together, we’ll hear from an inspirational survivor of pancreatic cancer, explore the cancer’s warning signs, why diagnosis is so difficult, and how researchers are working to help GPs spot the disease earlier.

-You will experience easy-to-follow presentations and open conversation, giving you the chance to ask questions, share perspectives, and deepen your understanding of both pancreatic cancer and the research process behind the scenes. 

-At the heart of the event is a live demonstration of a new digital risk assessment tool currently being developed at Surrey. Using real-world scenarios, we’ll show how this tool works with fictional medical records, and invite you to share your views on various aspects, such as how information should be presented, and how it could fit into everyday GP consultations.

-We will then move into smaller groups for discussions about the risk assessment tool, led by a University researcher. You will be welcome to participate in the group discussions as much or as little as you feel comfortable with. After the event we will analyse the groups’ discussions to help inform the future development of the tool. (More information about this entirely voluntary part of the event is available here: Participant Information Sheet.)

-Your feedback will play a valuable role in shaping the design of a tool that aims to be open-source and accessible, to aid in the early detection of pancreatic cancer.

PhD researcher Hugh Claridge and Pancreatic Cancer Action, plus guest speakers

The event is open to all, though particularly relevant to those aged 50+, their families, carers, and community groups. No prior medical knowledge is needed, just curiosity and a willingness to contribute. Refreshments will be provided, and travel support may be available.

As above