CANCER Research UK updates its patient information website

CANCER Research UK is to unveil its revamped award-winning patient information website, CancerHelp UK (www.cancerhelp.org.uk), in November.

The new look site offers a question and answer search facility and new 'quick guides' - summaries of each cancer section on the site and perfect for people looking for less detailed information on a particular cancer type. These features will make it even easier for cancer patients and their families to find a wealth of easy to understand information on a wide range of issues related to living with cancer.

CancerHelp UK provides clear and up-to-date cancer information, including a comprehensive glossary of medical and cancer terms, to more than a million people every month. The site is continually updated to ensure that people affected by cancer can find the most current information on the latest cancer developments. Questions sent to the site are answered personally by a member of Cancer Research UK's information nurse team.

The website's unique plain English clinical trials database will also have some new features. Liz Woolf, head of CancerHelp UK, said: "Our visitors have told us that they want to know more about past trials, so that they know about new treatments in the pipeline. As well as introducing information on these trials, the website will also feature ongoing trial results, written in the easy to understand style that CancerHelp UK is renowned for."

Peter Hulm knows how important it is to have access to easily understandable information. He said: "I was diagnosed with prostate cancer in May 2007 and my first reaction was fear. Fear of the unknown. Fear for the future.

"I found CancerHelp UK invaluable as a source of clear, concise information in straightforward, plain-speaking English on prostate cancer - what is actually was, the various stages of the disease, and the types of treatment available.

"What was also useful was the information on other sources to use to continue to learn about cancer. Knowledge and awareness took away my fear and was a great source of help and support for my family."

Liz Woolf continued: "CancerHelp UK helps thousands of people every week to get the information they need about cancer. Our aim is to keep the unique features that have made the site so successful, while adding a range of new resources, so it's even easier for people to find what they need."

People affected by cancer can also speak to one of Cancer Research UK's specialist nurses by calling freephone 0808 800 4040. The nurses are available between 9am and 5pm Monday to Friday. In addition, they can visit the Cancer Research UK online forum, www.cancerchat.org.uk, to talk to other people affected by cancer.