World Lung Cancer Day, August 1st, is a chance to reflect on how far we’ve come in improving outcomes for people affected by lung cancer, while recognising there is still more to do.
Thanks to research, earlier diagnosis, lung cancer screening, improved treatments and the support of our incredible community, more people are living longer and better with lung cancer than ever before.
How far we’ve come
Over the past three decades, the story of lung cancer has changed dramatically. Once a disease with few treatment options and little hope of early diagnosis, advances in research, targeted therapies, immunotherapy and lung cancer screening are helping more people live longer and better lives. Thanks to decades of campaigning, investment in research and the dedication of healthcare professionals, early detection is becoming the norm rather than the exception for thousands of people.
At Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation, we’ve been proud to play a part in that progress—from funding pioneering research that helped lay the foundations for today’s Lung Cancer Screening Programme, to campaigning for its national rollout and supporting everyone affected by lung cancer. While there is still much more to do, World Lung Cancer Day is an opportunity to celebrate how far we’ve come, recognise the people who made that progress possible, and look ahead with hope and determination.
Timeline of Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation’s impact
Every breakthrough we have been a part of has built on the last, helping more people receive earlier diagnoses, access life-changing treatments and live well with lung cancer. Explore some of the key milestones that have shaped the progress we’ve made together.
The people behind the progress
Behind every breakthrough is a person with a story to tell. Progress against lung cancer isn’t measured by research alone—it’s measured in lives changed, families supported and futures made possible. Meet three incredible members of our community whose experiences highlight different parts of the lung cancer journey. From early diagnosis to fundraising for a loved one and challenging the misconception that lung cancer only affects smokers, their stories remind us why awareness, research, support and early diagnosis matter. Together, they show that while every lung cancer journey is unique, no one should have to face it alone.
Betsy’s story
Betsy’s lung cancer was detected through a routine NHS Lung Cancer Screening appointment before she had any symptoms, allowing her to receive life-saving treatment. She’s now encouraging everyone invited to attend Lung Cancer Screening.
Read more →
Jessica’s story
After losing her husband, Kenny, to lung cancer at just 33, Jessica climbed Snowdon in his memory, raising more than £3,700. Her story shows how fundraising can honour a loved one while helping to fund research, support and hope for future families.
Read more →
Jade’s story
Diagnosed with lung cancer at just 30 years old, Jade had never smoked and never imagined she could be affected. Today, she’s sharing her story to challenge outdated stereotypes and remind people that if you have lungs, you can get lung cancer.
Read more →
Together, we can make a huge difference:
Together, we’re making a difference. Every donation, fundraiser, awareness campaign and conversation helps us move closer to a future where more people survive lung cancer. Here’s a snapshot of what we’ve achieved together over the past year.
💙Supported 5000+ people diagnosed
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Funded life-changing research
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Community engagement events
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Engaged 3.9m people during Lung Cancer Awareness Month
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Provided booklets to patients and healthcare providers
🩺Supported NHS Lung Cancer Screening rollouts
How you can get involved
Fundraising
Every fundraiser, big or small, helps change the story of lung cancer. Whether you take on a personal challenge, organise an event with friends or celebrate a special occasion by raising money, you’ll be helping to fund life-changing research, provide vital support and campaign for earlier diagnosis. However you choose to get involved, we’ll be with you every step of the way.
Fundraise for us →
Donate
When you donate to Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation, you’re investing in hope. Every gift helps us support people living with lung cancer today while funding the research, awareness and campaigning that will save lives tomorrow.
Donate →
Share your story
Every lung cancer journey is unique, and every story has the power to inspire, educate and give hope to others. Whether you’re living with lung cancer, supporting a loved one or fundraising in their memory, sharing your experience can help raise awareness, challenge misconceptions and remind others that they are not alone.