Posted: Tue 22nd Oct 2024

Sir Chris Hoy’s Cancer Diagnosis Spurs Surge in UK Web Searches

News and Info from Deeside, Flintshire, North Wales

Leading cancer charity says news of Sir Chris Hoy’s cancer diagnosis has sparked the biggest surge in web searches for cancer in the UK since the Royal Family’s cancer diagnoses earlier this year.

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 in at least the past year, with more than 31,000 visits – 34% higher than the average 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. It also encourages 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 relate 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.

Ms Taylor also highlighted the importance of open communication when discussing cancer with family, particularly children. Macmillan provides resources to help parents navigate these difficult conversations, ensuring that children feel supported and able to ask questions.

For those seeking more information, Macmillan offers a free support line available daily from 8am to 8pm. The charity continues to provide vital assistance both in person and online, offering reassurance and guidance to anyone affected by cancer.

For more details, visit the Macmillan Cancer Support website or call their confidential support line.

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