More than 3 million people are living with cancer in the UK, rising to 4 million by 2030. That means on average someone is diagnosed with cancer every 90 seconds.

In Portsmouth alone:

• 1,070 are diagnosed with cancer on average each year
• 7,400 are living with cancer (as of 2019) - expected to rise to 10,500 in 2030
• Around 470 die of cancer on average each year in Portsmouth

Cancer can affect your life in so many ways, so we do whatever it takes to give people the support they need. If you, or a loved one needs help paying bills, advice on benefits or treatment, or just want to chat, we're here to help.

Whether you live in Portsmouth or beyond, find the right support in your local area.

Kate delayed getting treatment after being terrified of getting confirmation she had cancer. She was eventually diagnosed with Hodgkin's lymphoma. Here she shares her experience of working with Macmillan's local support services.

"I first started experiencing symptoms several months before I was diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma – but didn’t feel comfortable speaking to my family about it, let alone my GP.

"At the time of my diagnosis, it was hard seeing the effects on my family but when I was introduced to Wendy, a Macmillan nurse, it made such a difference. Wendy was so kind, positive and very good at listening and having someone around to answer our questions and offer emotional support was a huge help to me and my family.

"Macmillan have been there for me in many ways – not only through Wendy but also through the support they provide at our local support, their website and the very helpful information booklets."