WEST Dunbartonshire’s MP has shown his support for families and NHS staff who are affected by cancer.

Martin Docherty-Hughes MP met with cancer specialists and campaigners from Cancer Research UK at the House of Commons recently to learn about the charity’s latest research - and show his support for all those working to ensure more people survive.

Today, two in four people survive their cancer for at least 10 years and charities like Cancer Research UK hope to accelerate progress so that by 2034, three in four people will survive their cancer for at least a decade.

Martin Docherty-Hughes MP said: “Cancer survival rates are improving in West Dunbartonshire and across Scotland, but there are still around 7,000 new cancer cases diagnosed every year here in the Greater Glasgow and Clyde area.

“Too many families, especially from poorer backgrounds, continue to be devastated by this terrible disease. Cancer affects all of us one way or another.

“Small actions, such as helping raise funds for research, can make a big difference and I’d urge people in West Dunbartonshire to show their support all year round.”

Shaun Walsh, of Cancer Research UK, added: “A big thank you to Martin Docherty-Hughes MP for joining us to raise awareness.

“One in two people in the UK will be diagnosed with the disease at some point in their lifetime, so we need as many people as possible to help back our doctors, scientists and nurses on the frontline against cancer.”

Cancer Research UK also recently urged more women to take up appointments for smear tests.

According to the charity, cervical screening rates are at an all-time low, with less than three-quarters of those invited taking up an appointment.