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People with cancer in the UK who have someone caring for them have risen in number to 1.4 million, a charity estimates.
Macmillan Cancer Support said the amount of cancer carers has risen by almost a third in recent years, with 1,416,000 carers in 2016 compared to just over a million in 2011.
Research among more than 6,000 people also found that family and friends are spending an average of 17.5 hours a week looking after someone with cancer - 2.5 hours more than in 2011.
One in five carers spent more than 35 hours a week caring for someone with cancer.
The research also revealed that cancer carers range in age from 17 to people in their 80s, with 55% of all carers saying they receive no external support.
Caring duties included giving medication, changing dressings, helping the person with cancer go to the toilet, and helping with eating.
By 2020, almost half of Britons will get cancer at some point in their lives.
"As our population continues to age, and more people are living longer with complex health conditions and disabilities, the amount of care families are providing and how long they are caring for is ever increasing.
However, this is happening against a backdrop of cuts to social security and pressure on health and care services, which raises serious concerns about whether the services families need to help them care well - and have a life alongside caring - will be there in the future.
Carers are doing more than ever to support others. We must ensure that they get the support and recognition they need and deserve"
Shared from itv.com