“One Century. One Goal. A Yorkshire Free from Cancer.”
That’s the powerful motto marking Yorkshire Cancer Research’s 100th anniversary, a century of saving lives, driving innovation, and supporting communities across the region.
Yorkshire faces some of the highest cancer rates in England, with more people diagnosed and sadly, more people lost than in many other areas. Yorkshire Cancer Research exists to change that. And for 100 years, they’ve done just that.
A Legacy Born in Yorkshire.
The charity began in 1925, when a group of visionary individuals gathered at Leeds’s Old Medical School. Their mission was bold: to take on cancer. In their first year alone, they raised what would be the equivalent of £2.5 million today, a sign of the passion and generosity that still powers the charity.
By 1927, they had opened their first lab in Leeds. In just a few short years, it had grown into the second-largest cancer research centre in the world. It was here that Dr Isaac Berenblum made a discovery that would shape the future of cancer treatment: mustard gas could shrink tumours. This groundbreaking work laid the foundation for modern chemotherapy.
Decades of Breakthroughs.
Over the years, Yorkshire Cancer Research has continued to lead the way in cancer research and care. Just a few of their incredible achievements include:
- Establishing radiotherapy centres in Hull and Leeds
- Backing occupational cancer studies in the 1930s, which uncovered links between industrial chemicals and cancer
- Supporting the development of tamoxifen in the 1970s, a drug that revolutionised breast cancer treatment
- Investing in photodynamic therapy, genetic research, and advanced surgical techniques that have improved survival rates worldwide
Still Driving Innovation Today
Even after a century, Yorkshire Cancer Research continues to lead the way in cancer care and prevention. Their work today is as ambitious and impactful as ever.
They’ve launched mobile screening units for lung and kidney cancer, bringing vital early detection services directly into communities where they’re needed most. These mobile units are already saving lives by catching cancer at earlier, more treatable stages.
The charity is also funding groundbreaking clinical trials, including studies that explore offering chemotherapy before surgery for bowel cancer patients. This approach is showing promise in improving treatment outcomes and long-term recovery. 
In addition, the Active Together programme is helping people living with and beyond cancer to improve their overall wellbeing. By focusing on nutrition, physical activity, and mental health, the programme has shown it can boost survival rates by as much as 10%.
Looking ahead, 2025 will see the charity support a major trial into universal genetic testing for cancer risk in women. This pioneering initiative aims to identify those at higher risk and take steps to prevent cancer before it even starts.
How you can help.
For 100 years, Yorkshire Cancer Research has been a cornerstone of medical progress, powered by science, supported by the community, and focused on one clear goal: a Yorkshire free from cancer.
There are so many ways that you can get involved and help Yorkshire Cancer Research. By shopping across their shops within Yorkshire, donating online, or volunteering with the charity, you can help support vital research.
Visit their charity shops or online stores to make a positive impact today: Shop with us - Yorkshire Cancer Research
Help fund research that saves lives in Yorkshire - Yorkshire Cancer Research via donating online.
Here’s to the next 100 years of Yorkshire Cancer Research.
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