Big Brother raises thousands for cervical cancer

The last ever series of Big Brother has raised over £60,000 for Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust, the UK’s dedicated cervical cancer charity. The charity was one of three chosen to receive funds through telephone votes.

Robert Music, director of Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust said, “We are absolutely thrilled that Big Brother has raised such a staggering amount, which represents 20% of our total income last year. In the UK, around 3 women a day die from cervical cancer, with someone being diagnosed every 3 hours, facing an uncertain future. Over 300,000 women a year are told they may have a cervical abnormality that could require treatment.”

“This means we can do so much more to increase awareness of cervical cancer, how it can be prevented and provide vital support for women diagnosed with the disease. And of course Big Brother’s support is a wonderful legacy to Jade Goody, who tragically lost her battle to cervical cancer aged 27. Thank you Big Brother ”

October 2010

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NOTES TO EDITORS
1. Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust – www.jostrust.org.uk is the UK’s only dedicated cervical cancer charity offering support and information for women, families and friends affected by cervical cancer and cervical abnormalities.
2. Just under1,000 women die from cervical cancer in the UK each year, with around 2,800 newly diagnosed.
3. It is estimated that the UK Cervical Screening Programmes save 5,000 lives every year.
4. In the UK, girls in year 8 at school (aged 12 to 13) are offered the HPV vaccine.
5. Cervical cancer is predominantly caused by the Human Papilliomavirus (HPV) which can be caught as soon as you start having intimate relationships.

Further information:
For all Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust enquiries please contact: Robert Music, Director: 020 7936 7498, 07980 720061,robert@jostrust.org.uk

Last updated: 14/10/2010