The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) has provided an extensive update following numerous complaints about the state of brain cancer treatment in the UK. Responding to an ongoing petition signed by over 20,000 individuals, the DHSC acknowledged the critical need for increased funding efforts.
According to the Brain Tumour Charity, brain tumours are the primary cause of cancer-related deaths in children and adults under 40 in the UK, with around 13,000 new diagnoses annually, including 900 among children and young adults.
In light of these alarming statistics, a parliamentary campaign urged the government to consider boosting funding to enhance treatment options. The campaign highlighted the stagnant state of treatments over the years and advocated for more extensive research initiatives.
In response, the DHSC acknowledged the urgency for further action and revealed plans to release a National Cancer Plan later this year. The department emphasized the profound impact of every brain cancer diagnosis on patients and families, underscoring the importance of research for advanced treatments and top-tier care.
The DHSC disclosed that it had directly invested £11.8 million in brain tumour research projects and programs through the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) between 2018/19 and 2023/24. Additionally, the NIHR’s broader investments in research infrastructure, totaling £37.5 million, have supported numerous research studies, involving over 11,400 participants, aimed at potentially life-altering outcomes.
Furthermore, the DHSC stated its collaboration with patient and research communities to encourage high-quality research applications. Initiatives such as the establishment of a national Brain Tumour Research Consortium and dedicated funding opportunities signify ongoing efforts to advance brain tumour research.
While emphasizing a commitment to securing patient access to innovative treatments, the DHSC clarified that there are no immediate plans to introduce a ‘Right to Try’ initiative for new treatments. The department highlighted the role of the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) in evaluating new medicines and ensuring timely access for NHS patients to safe and effective treatments.
Looking ahead, the DHSC outlined the forthcoming National Cancer Plan, aimed at enhancing the entire cancer care pathway, from diagnosis to aftercare, with a focus on improving outcomes and experiences for cancer patients. The ultimate goal is to reduce cancer-related mortality in the next decade, including brain cancer fatalities.
The petition titled ‘Invest in brain cancer and give rights – turn terminal into treatable’ has garnered over 20,000 signatures, with the potential for parliamentary debate should it exceed 100,000 signatures. Readers can access the full petition details here.