On the pulse


Cancerkin’s news…


Introducing Indian head massage and No Hands Massage Therapy…

We are pleased to announce that Cancerkin will be offering a six week trial of ‘Indian Head Massage’ and ‘No Hands Massage therapy’ with Karen Bernard. Karen has been a massage therapist for 7 years, after she was given massage during a period of ill health to alleviate symptoms. She is completely passionate about massage, and loves seeing the positive response she gets from her clients.

‘Indian Head Massage’ is done fully clothed in either seated or laying position on a massage couch. The treatment consists of massage to the head, neck, face and shoulders and is extremely relaxing. Each session will last 20 minutes.

‘No Hands Massage Therapy’ can be deep, relaxing, rejuvenating and nourishing. The therapist does not use her hands but instead uses the soft surfaces of her forearms. This means it is both deeper and more relaxing than conventional massage and for this reason it has been called the Gentle Giant of Massage. Each session will last 30 minutes.

Appointments will take place on Mondays between 11am and 3pm, from 21st February 2011. If you are interested in booking an appointment, please contact Henry on h.ezenwa@cancerkin.org.uk or call 0207 830 2323.


Inaugural Cancerkin Annual Lecture in February…

As you may already know, Cancerkin has the honour of welcoming Professor Sir Mike Richards, National Clinical Director for Cancer at the Department of Health and UK cancer Tsar, to speak at our inaugural annual lecture in the Atrium at the Royal Free on 28th February 2011. He will be giving a talk entitled ‘tackling breast cancer in England: progress and challenges,’ beginning at 5.30pm.

Appointed in October 1999, Prof Sir Richards led the development of the NHS Cancer Plan in 2000, the first comprehensive strategy to tackle cancer in England and since then has been responsible for overseeing its implementation. During 2007 he led the development of the Cancer Reform Strategy. He is also leading the development of the End of Life Care Strategy, due for publication in summer 2008.

If you are interested in attending the lecture, please contact Laura Smith at l.smith@cancerkin.org.uk or call 0207 830 2323 to reserve a place.


Comedy with a Cause…

This February 21st, the Jewish Community Centre for London will be holding a charity comedy evening at London’s famous Comedy Store in association with Cancerkin. Ivor Baddiel and Tracy-Ann Oberman will host the ‘Comedy with a Cause’ evening and will be introducing some of the UK’s leading stand-up comedians including Comedy Store regulars Josh Howie, Bennett Arron, Adam Bloom and Mark Maier as well as the hilarious Helen Lederer.

There will be a raffle on the night, as well as a display and auction of spectacular customised bras by a host of celebrities. More than 40 big names have decorated plain white bras donated by Triumph for the online charity auction. Contributors to the auction include Kelly Brook, Rachel Stevens and Isla Fisher to name but a few. Their creations will be auctioned online from February 1st to 27th at www.jccbigbraauction.org.uk.

All proceeds from the comedy evening and the auction will be split between Cancerkin and the JCC for London. If you would like to know more about the event or would like to reserve tickets, please click here.


In the news…


Global cancer rates compared…

The World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF) has this week published its analysis of World Health Organisation (WHO) data that ranks cancer rates across the world. The analysis reveals that in the overall ranking of cancer rates in both sexes the UK is placed at 22nd. Also revealed however is a considerable difference in ranking between UK male and female cancer rates. In terms of male cancer rates, the WCRF ranks the UK at 33rd, whilst for cancer rates in women it is ranked 12th. UK breast cancer rates are placed high in the global ranking at 11th.

The research finds that cancer rates are generally higher in high-income countries such as the UK. This tendency is attributed to elevated rates of obesity and drinking and lower levels of exercise in more affluent countries, with many cancers, for example breast cancer, being linked to such lifestyle factors. Martin Wiseman, WCRF’s medical and scientific adviser, said of this trend: "Lifestyle changes can make a real difference to people's risk. Scientists estimate that about a third of the most common cancers in the UK and other high-income countries could be prevented by maintaining a healthy weight, being more physically active and eating more healthily. Of course, not smoking will have an important effect beyond that, as will having sunburn."

Whilst female cancer rates are recognised as high, the overall UK’s ranking at 22nd has been described as relatively low by the government’s cancer advisor, Professor Sir Mike Richards. He attributes this overall ranking to Britain’s early handling of the ‘tobacco epidemic’ in comparison with other countries. Of the difference in ranking in male and female cancer rates, Prof Richards said: “I am encouraged by what I see for men. For women [the rate] is still too high but I am confident our picture will improve for both. As smoking rates come down, things like alcohol and obesity are highly important.”

To read more about the results, click here for The Guardian’s report and here for The Independent’s.


Laura Smith 28th January 2011