CANCER RESEARCH UK BACKGROUND

Cancer Research UK was formed in February 2002 by the merger of the Cancer Research Campaign (est. 1923) and Imperial Cancer Research Fund (est. 1902).

CRUK funds 3,000 scientists, doctors and nurses based in universities, institutes and hospitals throughout the UK. They are the world's largest independent organisation dedicated to cancer research. The work their scientists carry out is wide-ranging, from understanding the cancer process through to developing new methods of prevention, treatment and cure. CRUK also fund research aimed at providing the best possible support and information to cancer patients and their families.

In addition to the above, CRUK also supports work aimed at translating the knowledge gained through basic research into new treatments for patients. By supporting all areas of research, drug development and clinical trials they are minimizing the length of time it takes to get new treatments to patients.

CRUK relies overwhelmingly on the generosity of their supporters to fund their research. They receive virtually no funding from the government and thanks to our supporters they will have a scientific spend of £176 million in 2004. Working with scientists all over the world, they aim to develop new ways to prevent, treat and cure cancer.

To further your knowledge, you may also wish to consult their internet site which can be found at www.cancerresearchuk.org

It is packed with plenty of facts about the organisation and useful information on specific cancers, treatments and ways to reduce your risk of developing cancer.

Thank you for supporting CRUK.