WALES is missing out on opportunities to save and prolong people’s lives because of a funding shortage for research into cancer.
That’s the warning today from Cancer Research Wales which says demand for cancer research grants from scientists in Wales has outstripped its budgets in recent years.
The charity has been one of the main charitable funders of cancer research in Wales, since it was established in 1966.
Struggling to meet demand
But in recent years, it has struggled to meet the demand it has received for funding from cancer scientists.
Between 2021 and 2024, the charity had requests for £6.6 million of cancer research funding but was only able provide £3.6 million in grants.
That £3 million shortfall over four years meant that on average, just over half of the projects requesting money received it.
Crisis point
But the Welsh cancer research charity is also warning that the situation is reaching crisis point, and that in 2025 alone, it faces a shortfall of £4.1 million – more than the previous four years combined.
Adam Fletcher, Chief Executive of Cancer Research Wales, said:
“Cancer is affecting more of us than ever with 24,000 cases expected to be diagnosed in 2035 compared to 21,600 in 2025, so the need for research to diagnose cancer more quickly and provide better treatments for this cruel and indiscriminate disease is greater than ever.
“Cancer Research Wales has been at the cutting edge of funding world-class cancer research in Wales since 1966, and we rely on the goodwill and kindness of the people of Wales to do this, but we are facing a funding crisis and need more support to continue with our important work.
Public support
“Unfortunately, we cannot meet the current demand on us to provide research funding for cancer researchers across Wales, so the need for public support for us and our work has also never been greater” added Adam Fletcher.
“Here at Cancer Research Wales, we believe it is important to fund as much quality cancer research as possible in Wales. For as little as £8, you can help us to keep funding the best researchers, clinicians and health professionals to push the boundaries of cancer research discoveries here in Wales, so please support us and donate to Cancer Research Wales today”, said Adam Fletcher.
To donate £8 to Cancer Research Wales, please visit www.cancerresearchwales.org.uk
