LOCAL MP John Lamont has lent his support to the drive to diagnose cancer as Cancer Research UK’s Cancer Awareness roadshow made a special stop at Parliament.

The MP for Berwickshire, Roxburgh and Selkirk met with the charity’s roadshow nurses and campaigners to learn more about how nearly 800 new cancer cases are diagnosed in the Scottish Borders each year.

The roadshow team travels across the UK helping the public recognise possible signs and symptoms of cancer and talking to people about the lifestyle changes they can make to reduce their cancer risk.

Statistics provided by Cancer Research UK show 18% of adults in the Scottish Borders currently smoke cigarettes and 23% of 4-5-year olds are overweight or obese.

At the roadshow, MPs could check their body mass index, see what makes up a healthy eating plate and try a carbon monoxide monitor to see how much smoking could be affecting their lives as the first step to quitting.

Mr Lamont said: “Each day two people in the Borders are diagnosed with cancer.

“Early detection saves lives, so it was great to meet the roadshow team at Cancer Research UK and learn more about spotting cancer early, as well as the vital work being done to beat the disease.

“It was also reassuring to hear that NHS Borders remains above the national average in diagnosing cancers, although more work still needs to be done.

“Events like this are important reminders we can all play a part in the fight against cancer, whether it be researchers, campaigners or the tireless fundraisers across the Borders who are helping to support life-saving research.”

Shaun Walsh, Head of Public Affairs and Campaigning at Cancer Research UK, said: “A big thank you to John Lamont MP for coming along today and taking the time to learn about the challenges facing cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment.

“Cancer survival rates are lower in the UK than in comparable countries.

“We want to see all four nations tackle this problem head on, so that everyone across the UK has the best possible chance of surviving this devastating disease.”