Worldwide Cancer Research

Worldwide Cancer Research is the only UK charity dedicated to funding discovery research into all types of cancer, anywhere in the world. Its mission is to initiate new cancer cures, ensuring that no life is prematurely lost to the disease.

Cancer remains a global challenge, affecting millions of lives. While decades of research have led to remarkable progress, many cancers still lack a cure. Alarmingly, global funding for discovery research has declined by 25%, making it even more crucial to support pioneering studies that drive life-saving breakthroughs. This is why Worldwide Cancer Research identifies and funds the most promising ideas for new cures in research institutes across the world.

Discovery research represents the essential first step in the journey toward medical advancements, laying the foundation for future breakthroughs. By supporting visionary scientists, the charity helps uncover vital knowledge that could lead to new strategies for cancer prevention, detection, and treatment. Encouraging intellectual risk-taking and bold, innovative thinking enables the pursuit of groundbreaking insights—sometimes unexpected—that have the potential to change lives.

Each type of cancer presents unique challenges, requiring a deep understanding of how it develops, grows, and spreads. By maintaining an unrestricted approach to cancer research, scientists can apply creative problem-solving to their work, leading to significant progress—whether in the form of a cure for a specific cancer type or a discovery that reshapes the understanding of cancer as a whole.

Since its founding in 1979, Worldwide Cancer Research has invested over £213 million in more than 2,000 innovative research projects across 35 countries. However, continued investment in bold, early-stage research is essential to prevent missed opportunities for the next major breakthrough. By funding more discovery research today, the charity is helping to prepare for the cancer challenges of the future.