About Cancer Research UK

The UK’s leading funder of cancer research

Cancer Research UK is the world’s leading charity dedicated to beating cancer through research. Our groundbreaking work in finding new ways to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer has saved millions of lives.

What we do

We fund research into many aspects of cancer through the work of more than 4,000 scientists, doctors and nurses across the UK.

Our vision is to bring forward the day when all cancers are cured. This is only achievable thanks to people like you taking part in and supporting Relay For Life events.

In 2007 we set ourselves ten ambitious goals to help measure our success in beating cancer. We work to achieve these goals by:

• Carrying out world-class research to improve our understanding of cancer and find out how to prevent, diagnose and treat different kinds of cancer.
• Ensuring that our findings are used to improve the lives of all cancer patients. 
• Helping people to understand cancer, the progress we are making and the choices each person can make. 
• Working in partnership with others to achieve the greatest impact in the global fight against cancer.

Our work is entirely funded by the public so the money you raise for your Relay For Life event can help us achieve our goals and give hope to people affected by cancer both now and in the future.

Our achievements and progress

Find out how the amazing people, like you, who take part in Relay For Life have helped Cancer Research UK make some fantastic progress in beating cancer over the years.

Our research near you

Did you know that 90 per cent of the UK's population live within 30 miles of a Cancer Research UK funded research site? Find out about research taking place in your area.

Keep up to date

Read the latest information about cancer and our research. You can also keep up to date by listening to our monthly podcast or following our award-winning Science Update blog.

Information about cancer for patients and their families

Cancer Research UK provides free, comprehensive information for anyone affected by cancer.

CancerHelp UK

CancerHelp UK is renowned for its easy-to-read explanations of cancer, treatments and clinical trials.

Cancer Information Nurses Helpline

Talk to our specialist cancer nurses about any aspect of cancer, in confidence, between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday on 0808 800 4040. Calls cost 8p per minute (inc VAT) plus network extras

Cancer Chat

Share experiences, questions and information with others from across the UK on our online discussion forum.