In a landmark move, two of the UK’s leading independent oncology charities, Oracle Cancer Trust, and the Head & Neck Cancer Foundation, announce their merger and the formation of a new organisation named Oracle Head & Neck Cancer UK.
Every day more than 34 people receive a devastating diagnosis of head and neck cancer in the UK. These types of cancer are the fourth most prevalent in men alone, and the seventh most pervasive overall, with more patients than cervical and pancreatic cancers. The underserved cohorts of society are disproportionately affected by these aggressive and destructive cancers that can present in areas of the mouth, throat, sinus, and thyroid. Head and neck cancers are growing at 30% per decade and only 13% of patients are diagnosed early stage.
Tamara Kahn, CEO of Oracle Cancer Trust, will continue as the inaugural CEO of the new organisation. Commenting on the development she says: “This merger represents a pivotal milestone in our race to overcome the head and neck cancer crisis currently facing the UK. We want and need to bring about change to ultimately save and improve patients’ lives. Our Board of Trustees see common values and shared objectives – giving the ability to make the new combined organisation stronger. In addition, the scale of the head and neck cancer problem in the UK warrants a bigger voice. Together we believe we can increase awareness and help drive treatment innovations that ultimately uplift positive patient outcomes and care standards.”
Oracle Head & Neck Cancer UK is set to increase its momentum in the battle to overcome the UK’s growing head and neck cancer crisis by bringing together decades of expertise and resources. The organisation aims to make a profound impact through a multi-faceted strategy including integrated research collaborations, grant funding, grassroots initiatives,
corporate fundraising, community outreach and raising awareness. The new organisation will leverage its combined existing medical networks and research capabilities, to further propel advancements in diagnostics and medical treatments.
Michelle Vickers, formerly CEO of the Head & Neck Cancer Foundation, will transition into the newly created role of Chief Awareness Officer. This is a pivotal position aimed at bolstering public awareness, engagement, and advocacy. She adds: “Education and awareness are crucial in the early detection and treatment of head and neck cancers. Just as we know what to look for in other cancers, we need to know what to look for in these cancers. We know that a speedier diagnosis in a patient’s journey will drive better outcomes. Our merger represents a coming together of excellence at a time when the number of cases is increasing, I am excited to be part of this next chapter and the joining together of two forces for good. There are many strong synergies between us and collectively we will deliver far greater awareness across the UK.”
The merger has been completed with all business operations successfully transitioned to the new entity.