Yesterday was no ordinary Wednesday.
On 25 June, leaders from across the lung cancer community stepped through the iconic doors of 10 Downing Street. They gathered to mark the 35th anniversary of Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation—and to deliver a clear message:
“Safeguard lung cancer screening. Keep saving lives—now and for generations to come.”
Political Support and Shared Purpose
The event was hosted by Karin Smyth, Minister of State for Secondary Care. She welcomed guests warmly, sharing personal memories of Roy Castle.
Importantly, she praised the foundation’s 35 years of dedication to improving lung cancer outcomes.
Although she couldn’t provide an update on the National Cancer Plan, she clearly acknowledged the value of screening—especially in tackling health inequalities.
As a result, the foundation remains hopeful that lung cancer screening will feature strongly in the new strategy.
From Pipedream to Progress: Downing Street lung cancer screening campaign
Next, Paula Chadwick, the Foundation’s Chief Executive, reflected on the charity’s journey:
“It’s been 35 years since we started. I’ve told this story many times, but today, it feels especially meaningful.”
Back in 1990, screening felt like a distant hope. The science existed, but few believed in it.
Even so, the foundation persisted. It funded millions of pounds in research, including one of the risk models now used in today’s programmes.
Thanks to that work, a vision once dismissed as unrealistic is now a reality.
Screening Saves Lives
Paula highlighted how much screening has changed the odds for people with lung cancer.
“Without screening, two-thirds of people are diagnosed too late, when the cancer can’t be cured.
With screening, 76% are caught at an early stage, when treatment can work—and lives can be saved.”
The foundation always believed in screening. Now, the data proves it works.
A Time to Celebrate and Push Forward
The evening offered a moment to reflect. Years of fundraising, campaigning, and collaboration had brought lung cancer screening to the national stage.
But Paula was clear: this is not the end.
“We must keep going—with the same passion, focus, and drive.
Our goal is full rollout by 2030.
Any pause, any delay, will cost lives.”
“We have a programme that works—now let’s make it the best it can be.”
Downing Street Lung Cancer Screening Campaign: Why It Matters
This Downing Street lung cancer screening campaign sends a strong signal to policymakers: the UK must protect and expand lung cancer screening.
From early resistance to national recognition, Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation has led the way.
Now, the task is clear. Keep the momentum going. Catch more cancers early. Save more lives.