Macmillan Cancer Support says that search engine data shows a surge in overall web searches for cancer in the UK yesterday – the biggest seen since March 2024 when it was announced that the Princess of Wales had been diagnosed with cancer, and February 2024 when it was announced King Charles had cancer*.
The charity’s own data shows it saw the biggest number of visits to the Macmillan website yesterday for any Sunday for at least the past year, with more than 31,000 visits – 34% higher than the average number for a Sunday over the past 12 months**.
The pages on prostate cancer on the Macmillan website received more than 1,600 hits alone yesterday – 132% higher than average for a Sunday over the past 12 months***.
With more than 1,000 people being diagnosed with cancer each day in the UK – on average one person every 90 seconds**** – the charity is pleased that those who may be worried about cancer are seeking support.
Macmillan hopes that with Sir Chris Hoy being so open about his diagnosis, it will encourage more people living with cancer to reach out for support, and anyone concerned about potential signs or symptoms of cancer to visit their GP.
Claire Taylor, Chief Nursing Officer at Macmillan Cancer Support, said:
“Receiving an advanced cancer diagnosis is a life-changing moment for anybody and our thoughts are with Sir Chris Hoy and his family at this difficult time. The incredible courage he has shown in sharing this very personal experience will inspire others who may be facing a similar situation and encourage more people to seek support.
“Everyone’s experience of cancer is different and it’s important to have open conversations with your healthcare professional and those around you about the impact a diagnosis can have. When it comes to talking to children about cancer, this can feel even more daunting, and many parents will be relating to Sir Chris as he navigates through this. It’s important to give children the chance to talk openly about how they’re feeling – Macmillan can support you with this and any other concerns you may have. We are here in person, online and via our free, confidential support line every day of the week, 8am – 8pm.”
If anyone is worried about cancer or how to talk to children about cancer, Macmillan can support you. For more information visit www.macmillan.org.uk
How to talk to children about cancer
Wanting to protect children from difficult news, worry and distress is natural. But not explaining what is happening may make them feel more vulnerable. Here are some points to consider ahead of having a conversation about a cancer diagnosis with children:
- Use simple, clear language and short sentences.
- Keep information relevant to the current situation, rather than things that may happen in the future.
- If your children are young, let them know that cancer is not like having germs that you can catch.
- Let them know that they can always ask you questions and talk to you about how they feel.
- Be honest and tell them that you may not know all the answers to their questions, but you will try to find out and will tell them when you know.
- Allow the conversation to be directed by their reactions and the questions they ask.
- You may want to tell your child’s nursery, school or college, as teachers and staff may be able to support them.
For more information visit Talking about cancer | Macmillan Cancer Support
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