As part of Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month, the University of Surrey is inviting members of the public to a free community event exploring one of the deadliest and least understood cancers — pancreatic cancer — and the vital research being done to catch it earlier.
Titled ‘Can We Catch It Earlier? Pancreatic Cancer Awareness and Public Perspectives’, the event will be led by PhD researcher Hugh Claridge from the University of Surrey, in partnership with the Pancreatic Cancer Action charity.
Pancreatic cancer remains one of the most challenging cancers to treat successfully, with UK survival rates stubbornly low for over four decades. Because symptoms are often vague and easily missed, improving early detection and raising public awareness are crucial to saving lives.
This engaging and interactive session will bring together researchers, patients, families, and members of the local community to explore:
- The warning signs of pancreatic cancer and why it’s so hard to diagnose.
- The latest research helping GPs identify potential cases sooner.
- The real-world experiences of a pancreatic cancer survivor who will share their story of hope and resilience.
At the heart of the event will be a live demonstration of a new digital risk assessment tool currently being developed at Surrey. Using fictional medical records, participants will see how this technology could help GPs spot the disease earlier and will have the opportunity to share feedback on its design, usability, and potential impact.
“We want the public to be part of this process,” says Hugh Claridge, PhD researcher at the University of Surrey. “This event is about starting conversations, not just about pancreatic cancer, but about how we can work together to make early detection tools more effective and accessible for everyone.”
The event is open to all, with a particular welcome to those aged 50 and over, their families, carers, and community groups. No medical knowledge is required, just curiosity and an interest in making a difference.
Event details:
📅 Date: 5th November
🕕 Time: 1-3pm
📍 Venue: Austin Pearce Lecture Theatres 1 & 2, University of Surrey, Stag Hill Campus (accessible venue, near the main Piazza)
🚗 Free parking and bus links from Guildford Town Centre; around a 20-minute walk from Guildford Rail Station.
☕ Refreshments provided. Travel support may be available — please email esrc-iaa@surrey.ac.uk for details.
