IT is an oft-repeated statistic that one in two people will get cancer.
As World Cancer Day approaches, Islanders are being encouraged to take part in a new interactive campaign by making a simple pledge aimed at reducing their risk of cancer or supporting Islanders affected by the condition.
The initiative invites people to share one small, positive change they plan to make, with pledges submitted digitally as short videos or written messages.
The pledges will be on display at a free public event being held at Jersey Library on Wednesday 4 February, from 11am to 3pm, to mark World Cancer Day.
Charities, healthcare professionals, and government services will be in attendance and hosting stalls throughout the day to offer guidance and support about available resources and services in Jersey.
The event will conclude with a Q&A session between 2pm and 3pm, giving attendees the chance to submit questions to panel members and will be chaired by Dr Elizabet Gomes Dos Santos, clinical lead for Cancer Services and Screening.
The panellists are set to be director of Public Health Professor Peter Bradley; local GP James Kerr; founder and medical director of WorkHealth Jersey doctor Chris Edmond; screening programmes manager Sue De George, lead Stop Smoking nurse specialist Rhona Reardon; and cancer advocate Antonia Rubio.
Organisers say they hope the event will provide an “opportunity to hear practical insights, ask questions, and learn how small changes can make a difference in reducing cancer risk”.
Attendance is free, and those interested in the Q&A panel can reserve a ticket online via Eventbrite.
Now in its second year, the campaign continues under the ‘United by Unique’ theme, which is set to run until 2027, and focuses on creating a healthier Jersey through reduced cancer risk and improved screening.
In the weeks leading up to the event, digital screens around St Helier will be displaying a QR code, including at Charing Cross and in several town car parks, allowing people to scan and add their own pledges to the online wall.
It has been launched in collaboration with the Government of Jersey’s Connect Me programme and Jersey’s Cancer network – a partnership of local charities and oncology services.
Education Minister Rob Ward and Health Minister Tom Binet are among those who have already submitted a pledge.
Deputy Binet said: “I’m committed to pushing ahead with preventative health measures and ensuring that we invest wherever practically possible to make a real difference.
“I also want to express my heartfelt thanks to the health professionals and volunteers who dedicate themselves to helping islanders living with cancer.
“Your efforts are invaluable, and I will do all I can to support you.
Deputy Ward, who was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2022, shared his video pledge, saying: “As we approach World Cancer Day, I would encourage everybody to take full advantage of any screening processes that are available and to be very aware of your own health.”
He added: “The earlier cancer is caught, the more options you have for treatment, so let’s do that today, together.
“Please take your chance to be screened and encourage wider screening processes on our Island.”
Stephanie Gibaut, chief executive at Macmillan Jersey and one of the organisers of the event and campaign, said: “As part of Macmillan Jersey and the Cancer Network here in Jersey, we feel incredibly fortunate to stand alongside our community this World Cancer Day.
“By raising awareness of early prevention, screening, and ways to reduce cancer risk, we can make a real difference.”
“This year, we are especially excited to make our own organisational pledge — because one small change or commitment can have a powerful impact.”
