The DHSC released a significant update following numerous complaints about the state of brain cancer treatment in the UK. Responding to a petition signed by over 20,000 individuals, the DHSC acknowledged the pressing need for increased funding efforts.
Brain tumours currently stand as the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among children and adults under 40 in the UK, as highlighted by the Brain Tumour Charity. Each year, approximately 13,000 people receive a diagnosis of a primary brain tumour, with 900 of them being children and young adults.
In light of these figures, the parliamentary campaign urged the government to consider boosting funding to enhance patient care. It emphasized the lack of advancements in treatments over the years and called for more in-depth exploratory research.
The DHSC concurred that further actions are necessary, announcing the forthcoming publication of a National Cancer Plan later in the year. The department emphasized the profound impact of every brain cancer diagnosis on patients and families, underlining the importance of research to provide cutting-edge treatments and top-tier care.
Stating its commitment to research, the DHSC disclosed that it had invested £11.8 million in brain tumour research projects through the National Institute for Health and Care Research between 2018/19 and 2023/24. It acknowledged the need for increased efforts in brain tumour research.
The DHSC reported its collaboration with patient and research groups to encourage high-quality research applications. It established a national Brain Tumour Research Consortium and introduced a dedicated funding call to support research initiatives.
While confirming the commitment to patient access to new and effective medicines, 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 in evaluating new medicines for NHS funding.
Looking ahead, the DHSC outlined plans for the National Cancer Plan, emphasizing patient-centric care and a comprehensive approach to cancer treatment and care. The department aims to reduce cancer-related deaths, including those attributed to brain cancer, over the next decade.
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 upon reaching 100,000 signatures. Readers can access the full petition for more information.