Who we are:

Heartburn Cancer UK is a small charity, formed following the death of Michael McCord from oesophageal cancer.  Michael was aged just 47.  He had suffered from heartburn for much of his adult life and, like many of us, took over-the-counter indigestion remedies frequently.  He was unaware that, in his case, this seemingly insignificant heartburn was a symptom of the cancer that would cause his death.

What we do:

At Heartburn Cancer UK we work to raise awareness of oesophageal cancer and of the link between persistent heartburn (lasting for more than three weeks) and both this disease and a pre-cancerous condition called Barrett’s Oesophagus. Oesophageal cancer is the seventh biggest cancer killer in the UK and, like Michael, many of those who are diagnosed find out too late for treatment, meaning that the 5-year survival rate is only 15% – which is the worst in the world.

We produce literature and run awareness campaigns that educate people about the early symptoms of oesophageal cancer and encourage them to seek advice from their GP rather than self-medicating.  This will enable earlier diagnosis and result in a better prognosis for suffers.

We also facilitate support groups for suffers and their families, enabling people to share experiences and advice as well as providing phone and e mail support and online information through our website.

Why we need you:

10% of people who suffer with heartburn regularly are thought to have Barrett’s Oesophagus without even realising.  It is only because of funds raised by supporters like you that we can continue spreading the simple, but life-saving message that persistent heartburn must be investigated – sooner rather than later.