Oesophageal Patients Association
The Oesophageal Patients Association is a national independent registered charity
(No. 1062451)
founded in 1985 when a few former
oesophageal cancer patients met to share experiences
and provide support. Its objectives are to help new patients
and their families cope
with any difficulties arising as a result of treatment,
and to support and encourage them to achieve a good quality of life.
The Association offers:
- medically approved booklets and fact sheets written by former patients who have
experience of the many problems that may occur with these disorders
- national telephone helpline 0121 704 9860 Monday to Friday, 9am - 5pm with access
to trained former patients if needed
- website information at www.opa.org.uk
- email contact at jackie@chandos.abel.co.uk
- newsletters with up-to-date information from patients and the medical profession
- regional support groups where patients can meet, talk through problems & issues
and get advice from former patients who are now leading relatively normal lives
- hospital visitors in some areas
- follow-up visits where possible
The OPA is recognised as a knowledgeable and responsible body, respected by the
medical profession. It has links with specialist hospitals and medical teams around
the UK where patients with oesophageal and gastric problems are regularly treated.
The Association is represented on various committees involved with the management
of these cancers and research into new treatments.
New members are always welcome. Their experiences help OPA to influence the
medical profession in research and treatment of these conditions. All personal
details are confidential to the Oesophageal Patients Association and are stored
in accordance with the Data Protection Act of 1998.
Further information can be found on the Oesophageal Patients Association website.