Category: News

Foreword – Dame Cally Palmer, National Cancer Director

Cancer survival in England is at an all-time high due to the speed and scale of advances in diagnosis and treatment across the NHS. Our work on cancer really matters to people. As we live longer, more of us will develop cancer ourselves, or will have family or friends who are affected by cancer. We want more people to be cured of their cancer or supported to find a way of living their life well with it.

Continue reading…- Click here

Date published: 9 May, 2024
This information is from www.england.nhs.uk

Introducing the three new OPA Publications.

  • Achalasia Leaflet
  • What is Gastric Cancer?
  • What is Oesophageal Cancer?

These publications can be downloaded to be viewed in a PDF document or Flipbook-
Downloads – The OPA

Or if you would prefer to order hard copies, you can do this on the OPA Shop-
Shop – The OPA

OPA: Empowering hope and health in the battle against oesophageal and gastric cancer 

Global Award Winner – Medical Awareness NPO of the Year 2023/24 

In the world of cancer charities, OPA Cancer Charity stands as a beacon of hope and support for those affected by oesophageal and gastric cancer. This organisation goes beyond the ordinary, raising awareness, providing exceptional support, serving as a first class research resource, and showcasing the dedication of their OPA team. In this article, we will delve into the remarkable work of the OPA and how it is making a profound difference in the lives of those facing these challenging cancers across the globe.

Raising awareness
One of OPA’s core missions is to raise awareness about the critical link between chronic acid reflux and the increased risk of oesophageal and gastric cancer. Through public awareness campaigns, educational seminars, and global online campaigns, they’re actively educating individuals about prevention and early detection. By shedding light on this connection, they’re saving lives.

Exceptional support provision
What sets OPA apart is their unwavering commitment to providing exceptional support for patients and caregivers. They offer a range of services, including patient buddy service, support groups, and guidance as well as a strong worldwide social media presence navigating the complex journey of cancer treatment. OPA’s support is personalised, ensuring that individuals receive the assistance they need.

“ONE OF OPA’S CORE MISSIONS IS TO RAISE AWARENESS ABOUT THE CRITICAL LINK BETWEEN CHRONIC ACID REFLUX AND THE INCREASED RISK OF OESOPHAGEAL AND GASTRIC CANCER.”

First-class research resource
OPA’s commitment to combating these cancers doesn’t stop at support services. They serve as a first-class research resource, funding research and collaborating with top scientists and medical professionals. By investing in research, they’re advancing our understanding of reflux, oesophageal and gastric cancer, exploring innovative treatments, and improving patient outcomes.

The dedicated OPA team
At the heart of the OPA’s success is its dedicated team. The OPA team works tirelessly to ensure that the charity’s mission is fulfilled. Their passion and commitment drive the organisation’s impactful work.

Success stories
To understand the impact of the OPA, we spoke with Melanie, a cancer survivor who benefited from their support. “The helpline provided me with a tremendous amount of support,” she says. “Their online resources really made a difference.” Melanie’s story is just one of many examples of the positive change that OPA brings to the lives of patients and caregivers.

Conclusion
The OPA, a cancer charity dedicated to raising awareness of acid reflux’s link to oesophageal and gastric cancer, stands as a model of exceptional support, research advancement, and dedicated
teamwork. With their efforts, they’re changing the narrative for those affected by these challenging cancers. They offer not just hope but a concrete path to improved health and well-being in the face of adversity. For more information, please visit www.opa.org.uk

Job Opportunity: Paid Role for Individuals Diagnosed with Barrett’s Oesophagus

Are you or someone you know diagnosed with Barrett’s Oesophagus? An exciting paid role opportunity has emerged for individuals with this condition.

Position: Paid Role

Requirements: Diagnosis of Barrett’s Oesophagus

How to Apply: Please email your details to enquiries@opa.org.uk

Don’t miss out on this opportunity. Send your details today to enquiries@opa.org.uk for further information.

We have a range of new and beautiful OPA Teddy Bears.

“Teddy bears may not have a voice, but they can speak volumes through their comforting presence.”

You can browse these – Click Here

A new podcast series hosted by TV presenter Julia Bradbury and recorded by patients of Guy’s and St Thomas’ has launched to support people who have been diagnosed with cancer.

The 10-part series Now What?, funded by Guy’s Cancer Charity, includes personal experiences from 11 current and past cancer patients at the Trust on cancer diagnosis, treatment and living with cancer.

Wendy Harris-Newland has undergone treatment and surgery at Guy’s and St Thomas’ since she was first diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer in March 2018.

She said: “I wanted to give my knowledge – what I’ve learned through my experiences – to other patients, and to give back some of what I’ve received.”

Stream the series through: https://shows.acast.com/now-what-your-cancer-support-podcast/about

“The next Chatsworth Challenge fundraising walk in aid of the Dave Owens and Frank Goodall Memorial Fund will take place on Saturday 18th May 2024.

Join now to explore the wonderful Chatsworth House Estate and surrounding countryside areas of Derbyshire while supporting some incredible charities.

• Our walks take place within the picturesque Derbyshire Peak District.
• Both walks start and finish on Baslow village green, DE45 1SR.
• There are two fundraising challenge walks in one day. The distances are 22 miles or 9 miles respectively, the choice is yours.
• The Chatsworth Challenge is an annual event that first took place in 2003.
• This year’s Chatsworth Challenge will take place on Saturday 18th May.
• Start times: 22 mile leaves Baslow at 06:00, the 9 mile walk leaves at 11:00.
• The event is open to anyone who is prepared to raise sponsorship in aid of the four cancer related charities we support.
• Those charities are Cancer Research UK, Macmillan, Marie Curie & The Oesophageal Patients Association.
• All the information, photos, application forms you require can be found within our website pages.

Check out the previous walks here – Gallery – Chatsworth Challenge – Home

This information is extracted from the Chatsworth Challenge website, find out more here – Chatsworth Challenge – Home

The following Symptoms are often associated with GORD

  1. Chronic Heartburn
  2. Sour Taste in the back of the mouth
  3. Regurgitation
  4. Chest pain or discomfort
  5. Chronic cough, sore throat and/or hoarseness
  6. Belching gas and bloating
  7. Trouble sleeping
  8. Intolerance to certain foods
  9. Nausea

If you would like to find out more information about Reflux Disease (GORD), click the link below.
Get Educated – The OPA

Oesophageal Cancer is a type of cancer affecting the food pipe (oesophagus), the long tube that carries food from the throat to the stomach.

Symptoms of oesophageal cancer can include:

If you would like to find out more information about Oesophageal Cancer, please check the link below.
Oesophageal Cancer – The OPA

Gastric Cancer is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the lining of the stomach. Age, diet, and stomach disease can affect the risk of developing gastric cancer.

Symptoms can affect your digestion, such as:

Other symptoms include:

If you would like more information about Gastric Cancer, please check the link below.
Gastric Cancer – The OPA