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Why we exist
When a patient is diagnosed with cancer that has spread within the body (metastatic cancer), the primary site of the disease is not always obvious. Finding the origin of the cancer is important to define appropriate treatment.
When the origin of the cancer is not identified with confidence, through initial tests, this is described as Cancer of Unknown Primary site, or CUP.
Each year in the UK up to 14,000 people are diagnosed with CUP. This is a higher incidence than known cancers such as pancreatic, ovarian, uterine, kidney, brain, cervical or blood (leukaemia) cancers.
The 14,000 people diagnosed with CUP each year in the UK would fill 35 jumbo jets.
For some CUP patients the primary cancer will remain unknown and will never be identified. But for many of those diagnosed initially with an undefined or uncertain metastatic cancer the origin of the cancer will be found through further tests. Even when the primary site remains truly hidden and unknown, effective treatment may be found, and all those with CUP can experience remission.
CUP is the "orphan" of the cancer world. Most people have never heard of CUP and find it hard to believe that in this scientific age the cause of the cancer spread can remain unknown. A cancer diagnosis is frightening for patient, family and friends. Not to know where this strange, invasive, disease has originated in the body is a double blow. CUP patients face unique psychological and social concerns.
We exist to offer information and support to CUP patients, their families and friends; whilst raising awareness of this problem to stimulate action that will improve treatment.
Message Board
1. NICE Guideline for CUP launched 26 July 2010. See the Press release on this page.
2. CUP-One Trial now recruiting patients. For trials info Click here.
3. Click for Jo's friends News.
Endorsements
What a brilliant site, it provides a light in the grey world of CUP.
Chris (CUP patient, UK)
This site provides much needed and accessible help for CUP patients and their loved ones - I'm very, very impressed.
Nicola James
Macmillan Nurse Consultant
The immense relief that I have obtained so far from just reading everyone’s stories on this site is incredible. Up to this point I have felt so very alone...
Susie (CUP patient, Ireland)
Meeting Space
Join others affected by
CUP to share information
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