Gerald Jones, MP for Merthyr Tydfil and Rhymney, got on board with the campaign to diagnose cancer, as Cancer Research UK’s Cancer Awareness roadshow made a special stop at Parliament.

Gerald met with the charity’s roadshow nurses and campaigners to learn more about how cancer affects people in Merthyr Tydfil and Rhymney and across Wales.

The roadshow team travels across the UK helping the public recognise possible signs and symptoms of cancer and talking to people about the lifestyle changes they can make to reduce their cancer risk.

At the roadshow, MPs could check their BMI, see what makes up a healthy eating plate and try a carbon monoxide monitor to see how much smoking could be affecting their lives as the first step to quitting.

Gerald Jones MP said: “Around 1,900 people in Cwm Taf Health Board are diagnosed with cancer every year.

“Early detection saves lives, so it was great to meet the roadshow team at Cancer Research UK and learn more about spotting cancer early, as well as the vital work being done to beat the disease.

“Events like this are important reminders we can all play a part in the fight against cancer, whether it be researchers, campaigners or the tireless fundraisers our area and across Wales and the UK.

Diagnosing cancer earlier – when it is more likely to be treated successfully – is a vital part of ensuring more people survive cancer.

However, with a growing and ageing population, Cancer Research UK projects that by 2035 we will have more than 500,000 new cancer cases every year – one new case every minute.

Without governments across the UK planning the future of the cancer workforce, there will not be enough specialist staff to meet the present pressures or cope with the increased demand.