Crawley MP and All-Party Parliamentary Group on Blood Cancer Chair Henry Smith has reiterated his support for the fight against blood cancer by raising awareness of the need for more blood stem cell donors to register as a potential lifesaver with DKMS.
Every 20 minutes someone in the UK is diagnosed with a blood cancer, such as leukaemia. Combined, blood cancers are the third most common cause of cancer death in the UK, but less than half of the UK population is aware of blood cancer issues. Although for most people there is no single cure, a blood stem cell donation from a genetically similar person can offer the best treatment.
Henry said;
“Currently, only six out of 10 blood cancer patients in the UK find an unrelated matching blood stem cell donor.
“That’s why I’m supporting DKMS in the fight against blood cancer and would urge others in Crawley who are eligible to do the same.”
In spite of figures showing that 51,907 people from the South East of England have registered as blood stem cell donors with DKMS, the region is still falling short of potential lifesavers. Of those registered in the South East, only 7.3 per cent are from West Sussex.
The Crawley MP was attending an event organised by Mike Wood MP, who joined forces with the blood cancer charity, following his own personal experience of contracting septicaemia (sepsis), a type of blood poisoning, in 2017.
Mike Wood MP commented;
“I was delighted to see MPs from all sides come together to register as potential lifesavers and show their support for people with blood cancers and disorders.
“Henry Smith MP has sent an important message to his constituents in Crawley, that he is committed to the fight against blood cancer and has played an important role in helping to raise awareness.”
Lisa Nugent, Head of Donor Recruitment at DKMS, added;
“Thanks to Mike and Henry for their support in helping us raise awareness of the important work that we do in registering more potential blood stem cell donors. We are grateful to everyone who registered on the day and took the time to support the cause.
“Anyone that’s aged between 17 and 55 and in general good health can register online at dkms.org.uk for their home swab kit. There could be a lifesaver in you.”
