Banbury Town Hall - Pancreatic Cancer Awareness 2024

Published: 19 November 2024

Banbury Town Council has a history of supporting the fight against pancreatic cancer, and the changing of the light colours is the latest sign of their support. The aim is to raise awareness of the different channels through which the population can support the fight against pancreatic cancer, such as donating to organisations including Pancreatic Cancer UK and Cancer Research UK.

This particular movement is part of the #purplelights initiative, where residential and commercial buildings across the UK are encouraged to turn their lights purple around the 21st November. November itself is Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month, while Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Day falls on the 21st.

Currently, pancreatic cancer is difficult to diagnose in the early stages as it can often fail to cause any symptoms. Age, smoking, obesity and diabetes are just some of the conditions that can increase the likelihood of the cancer occurring in the body.

According to Pancreatic Cancer UK, half of those diagnosed with the disease will unfortunately pas away within 3 months of finding out they have it. This organisation aims to aid breakthroughs in research that will ensure that diagnosis can be carried out more effectively, as well as that the correct care is given to those that have been diagnosed with the condition.

Raising awareness that leads to such support for these organisations is where initiatives like #purplelights come in. The campaign is supported by Pancreatic Cancer UK, Pancreatic Cancer Action, and Planets Cancer Charity.

Banbury residents are reminded to be on the look out for pancreatic cancer symptoms. These can include indigestion, stomach/back pain, unexplained weight loss or a loss of appetite, or jaundice (yellowy eyes and skin). I you or someone you know maybe experiencing these symptoms and are worried about what they might mean, please speak to your GP.

Banbury Town Hall’s lights will remain purple until the 23rd November.