Tag: cancer

Prostate cancer detection: ‘Extremely encouraging’ clinical trial results

New ultrasound imaging technique reliably spots prostate cancer, initial patient trial reveals

A groundbreaking new imaging approach developed by researchers at Heriot-Watt University has shown ‘extremely encouraging’ results in early-stage clinical trials on prostate cancer at the Western General Hospital in Edinburgh.

The ongoing clinical trial demonstrated an initial 94% sensitivity rate in tumour detection. The new test is delivered in less than 20 minutes and relies on existing clinical ultrasound equipment. 

The cost of an ultrasound scanner is a fraction of an MRI scanner (around 10%), so the new approach provides clinicians with a valuable new tool to help better guide prostate biopsies and focal therapy, a technique that destroys cancer cells.  

All men are at risk of prostate cancer with 1 in 8 diagnosed with the disease in their lifetime. 52,000 men in the UK are diagnosed with prostate cancer every year – 144 every day.

Currently, a relatively unreliable blood test, called a Prostate Specific Antigen or PSA test, means many men are unnecessarily sent for an expensive MRI scan in an attempt to spot cancerous tissue. Current long waiting lists for tests mean treatment can be delayed.

Despite using multi-parametric MRI (mpMRI – a specialist type of scan) for prostate cancer diagnosis, up to 28% of clinically significant tumours are missed and 1 in every 2 individuals with positive MRI findings receive a negative biopsy result. 

Less Grey Imaging Ltd is a spin-out from Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh, with the mission to bring greater clarity to prostate imaging. The technology offers clinicians up to a 20-fold increase in resolution compared to mpMRI, which provides a grey and difficult-to-read image. 

The new imaging test begins by injecting a commonly used contrast agent into a vein that contains millions of tiny and harmless microbubbles that travel through the patient’s bloodstream to the prostate.

The team uses a technique known as super resolution ultrasound imaging (SRUI) to track these microbubbles as they flow inside the prostate. Due to the altered blood flow in cancerous tissue, the image highlights previously unseen tumours, enabling earlier diagnosis.

Dr. George Papageorgiou, CEO of Less Grey Imaging, explains how the new technique aligns well with histopathology, the diagnosis and study of diseases of the tissues which involves examining tissues or cells under a microscope. He said: “Our initial clinical findings in prostate imaging align well with histopathology, highlighting its potential to reliably detect clinically significant prostate cancer.

“Currently, prostate cancer diagnosis varies widely across the country, with many patients being diagnosed too late for curative treatment. By integrating ultrasound more prominently into the diagnostic pathway, we can ensure equal opportunities for early diagnosis across all regions of the UK.

“Less Grey Imaging’s mission is to revolutionise prostate imaging by delivering clarity and precision. Urologists will have an imaging tool that enables accurate diagnoses and quicker decision-making. Our software deploys existing ultrasound equipment to enhance image quality down to microscopic detail. By minimising reliance on radiologist assessment, we intend to streamline workflows, reduce NHS costs, and improve patient efficiency.”

The potential of the technology has been recognised by Innovate UK, which awarded the company a £370,000 grant through its ICURe Exploit Funding programme. This is being used to support the company’s product development and attract further investment.

The UK has a higher cancer mortality rate compared to several other developed countries, and more recently, the Darzi report, a bleak review of the NHS published in September 2024, revealed that waiting times targets for the first treatment for cancer have not been met since December 2015. 

Professor Vassilis Sboros from Heriot-Watt University and co-founder of Less Grey Imaging, explained how the technique can help support an NHS that is fit for the future. He said: “Our super-resolution ultrasound imaging technology provides a leap in imaging resolution.

“By utilising existing ultrasound scanners found in hospitals and clinics worldwide, we’re able to produce high-resolution images of the prostate that clinicians have never seen before. This is exactly what the new Government needs to tackle the challenges facing the NHS.

“Back in 2019, we proved the concept worked in our lab but now we have shown it works during our initial patient trials. It’s just like looking inside the body with a microscope, allowing clinicians to see 20 times more detail than before. Even concealed tumours are possible to identify.

“With one man dying from prostate cancer every 45 minutes in the UK, we hope earlier detection will radically improve treatment outcomes, saving lives while reducing the number of people sent for unnecessary and often risky tests.”

Professor Alan McNeill is a Consultant Urological Surgeon at the Western General Hospital, Edinburgh and founder trustee of charity Prostate Scotland. He said: “The initial trial results are extremely encouraging, providing really useful information for the diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer. This is the most common cancer in men but, if it is caught early while the cancer remains within the prostate, it can be cured in the majority of cases.

“The technology has the potential to significantly enhance diagnostic accuracy, help clinicians like me to carry out more targeted biopsies and even focus treatments with greater precision.

“I can anticipate it benefiting treatments like focal therapy by allowing us to pinpoint and treat cancerous tissue with greater accuracy. Nearly every week, my colleagues and I meet men in their 50s or early 60s suffering from advanced prostate cancer that leaves them with fewer treatment options. We continue to raise awareness and encourage earlier diagnosis for all men.”

Gary Tait was treated for prostate cancer five years ago after his wife, a practice nurse, encouraged him to see his GP. He is now Chair of Edinburgh & Lothian Prostate Cancer Support Group. He said: “Being diagnosed and treated for prostate cancer is an incredibly anxious time so it is very positive to see these trial results which indicate that the new ultrasound technique could lead to more accurate diagnosis of prostate cancer.

“From the perspective of men who are unaware of a developing tumour in their prostate, this improved method of diagnosis could lead to earlier treatment which improves the likelihood of a good outcome.

“We fully support the development of this new technology which raises the possibility of enabling more men to be both diagnosed and treated earlier than they can be at present.”

Professor Gill Murray, deputy principal of business and enterprise at Heriot-Watt University, said: “This breakthrough exemplifies Heriot-Watt’s commitment to transforming innovative research into real-world healthcare solutions with global applications.

“Less Grey Imaging represents exactly the kind of high-impact spinout company we aim to nurture – one that combines cutting-edge science with clear commercial potential and significant societal benefit.

“These early clinical trials are particularly encouraging as they demonstrate how our research excellence can help address critical healthcare challenges while creating economic opportunities.

“By developing technology that makes cancer diagnosis more accessible and accurate, we’re supporting the NHS and positioning Scotland as a leader in medical innovation.

“Addressing global challenges through the real world application of our research is why we established our Global Research Institutes. Each institute has its own distinctive DNA, and our global research institute in health and care technologies excels in the creation and growth of new innovative businesses.

“Less Grey is a fantastic example of one of these businesses and perfectly aligns with our enterprise strategy of fostering research-led companies that can scale globally while delivering tangible benefits to patients and healthcare systems worldwide.”

Fighting cancer is one of the five key themes for Health and Care Technologies. Anyone interested in collaborating with the new Health and Care Technologies global research institute at Heriot-Watt University can contact GRID@hw.ac.uk. 

New report highlights barriers to health equity for patients living with cancer and/or blood disorders

PATIENTS ASSOCIATION CALLS FOR ACTION

A new report by the Patients Association, funded by Bristol Myers Squibb, sheds light on the stark health inequities faced by patients living with cancer and/or blood disorders, revealing significant disparities driven by social determinants of health, systemic barriers, and discrimination.

The report also offers recommendations to improve access to equitable healthcare.

The report identifies critical issues such as economic and social factors, mistrust in healthcare services, systemic racism, and lack of joined-up care, all of which exacerbate health inequalities for underserved communities.

The report calls for a patient-centred approach that prioritises shared decision-making to ensure cancer and/or blood disorder patients are treated as equal partners in their care. It also calls for a multi-agency approach to tackle health disparities, aligning national and local strategies, such as NHS England’s Core20PLUS5 framework, to enhance access to early cancer diagnosis.

The report finds that cancer and/or blood disorder patients from underserved communities consistently experience worse health outcomes and lower standards of care. Contributing factors include delays in diagnosis, lower uptake of screening programmes, and mistrust of healthcare systems. Barriers such as low health literacy, cultural insensitivity from staff, and systemic discrimination further hinder equitable access to care.

Patients interviewed for this report highlighted several critical issues, including difficulty navigating healthcare systems and insufficient communication about their rights and available benefits. Many patients reported transportation and medication costs causing financial difficulties.

Organisations working with underserved communities reinforced these findings, emphasising the pervasive mistrust in the health among marginalised communities. This mistrust often results from discrimination, such as delayed diagnoses and unequal access to treatment. LGBTQ+ patients and those with sickle cell disease described particularly hostile or dismissive interactions with healthcare providers.

The report also draws attention to the role of social determinants of health, such as inadequate housing, poverty, and living in a deprived neighbourhood. These factors are closely linked to higher rates of cancer and mortality, as well as reduced access to essential healthcare resources.

Tackling these challenges requires urgent action at both a national and local level. The Patients Association calls on policymakers, healthcare professionals, and community organisations to work together to ensure equitable access to care for all.

Reflecting on the report, Rachel Power, Chief Executive of the Patients Association said: ““Equitable healthcare is an urgent necessity. It is deeply concerning that barriers such as systemic discrimination, financial hardship, and mistrust of the health and care system persist, disproportionately affecting underserved communities.

“Only by addressing these disparities can we achieve a health and care system that provides equality and dignity for all. We call on the government and the health and care system to align national and local strategies, address the social determinants of health, and foster trust between patients and healthcare providers.

“We must work together to close these gaps and build a system rooted in fairness, trust, and accessibility.”

For more information, please contact media@patients-association.org.uk

Scots are far quicker to report a missing delivery than get possible cancer symptoms checked out

Radio presenter and resident ‘early bird’ Des Clarke took to Buchanan Street to share latest research from the Scottish Government with the people of Glasgow and get their thoughts.

People across Scotland are being urged to ‘Be the Early Bird’ as part of the Scottish Government’s awareness raising campaign to empower people with possible cancer symptoms to contact their GP practice.

In recent research conducted by the Scottish Government*, more than four in five people in Scotland (83%) said they would report an item missing from a delivery order within a day, but nearly a third (32%) of people in Scotland said they would wait days, weeks and even months to contact their GP practice about any unusual, persistent symptoms.

The research, which surveyed over 2,000 people in Scotland, also showed that 87% of people in Scotland say they would respond to an urgent text from a friend within an hour, as opposed to more than 2 in 5 (42%) who would take days, weeks or even months to contact their GP practice as soon as they experienced a persistent hoarse voice.

Another finding showed that nearly nine out of ten people in Scotland (86%) would contact their GP practice within two days if their child / a child in their care was ill, however, if they had a persistent cough that had lasted more than three weeks, just over one in five (21%) said they’d wait at least another week to get in touch with their GP practice.

The Scottish Government wants to tackle these issues with its ‘Be the Early Bird’ campaign, which aims to reinforce the benefits of finding cancer at an earlier stage when there’s more treatment options available, a greater likelihood of living well after treatment, and better news to tell the family.

Des Clarke, breakfast radio presenter, resident ‘early bird’ and advocate for the campaign, recently took to the streets of Glasgow to share the research with locals who confirmed the research’s findings – many people in Scotland would put off contacting their GP practice and are likely to help someone else before themselves.

Des Clarke, Radio Presenter said: “The Scottish Government’s ‘Be the Early Bird’ campaign is so important as cancer is something that affects many of us in some way. This research proves what we all know to be true anecdotally with many people placing greater importance on other things and allowing their health to slip down the priority list.

Video: https://we.tl/t-BteN4b4ZBo

“I encourage everyone in Scotland to make sure they contact their GP practice if they notice any persistent symptoms or issues that are out of the ordinary – your GP practice wants to know.”

Ross MacDuff, Joint National Clinical Lead for Earlier Cancer Diagnosis at the National Centre for Sustainable Delivery (CfSD), said: “Finding cancer in its earliest stages is really key to maximising treatment options.

“That’s why it’s so important that anyone who is experiencing persistent symptoms that are unusual for them contacts their GP practice so they can be assessed as soon as possible and referred, if appropriate, to the correct specialist.

“Whether it is you that has possible symptoms, a family member or friend, please don’t put off making an appointment with your GP practice.  If cancer is confirmed earlier, a much wider range of treatment options can be available, and the body can respond better to treatment.”

Health Secretary, Neil Gray said: “Early detection is crucial in cancer care. So, I urge everyone to prioritise their health and make sure you contact your GP practice about any unusual, persistent symptoms.

“The sooner we act, the better the chances for treatment and recovery. So, let’s be vigilant – if something doesn’t feel right, don’t wait, get checked early.”

To see the reactions of the Scottish public when Des Clarke shared the research stats, please see link here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Hyl_OL8a7g. 

For more information around how to be an ‘Early Bird’ and to use the symptom checker, please visit getcheckedearly.org.

* The research conducted included 2,001 respondents across Scotland (aged 16+).

Scotmid announces new charity partnership to support cancer patients in Edinburgh

Scotmid, one of Scotland’s leading community retailers, has announced a new, year-long charity partnership with Maggie’s, an organisation dedicated to providing comprehensive support to individuals and families living with cancer.

This partnership highlights the shared commitment of both Scotmid and Maggie’s to making a meaningful difference in their communities. Over the next 12 months, Scotmid and Maggie’s staff in Edinburgh will work hand-in-hand to raise awareness, fundraise, signpost and offer tangible support to those living with cancer.

As part of this collaboration, Maggie’s volunteers will be visiting Scotmid stores across the country, engaging directly with customers to raise awareness and funds. These in-store ‘pop-up’ events will offer customers the opportunity to learn more about the resources available to them and how they can contribute to the cause.

Scotmid stores have also introduced exclusive Maggie’s-branded merchandise, including limited edition pin badges and air fresheners, making it easier than ever for customers to show their support.

Additionally, Scotmid employees are being encouraged to get involved in local fundraising activities, bringing their own creative ideas to the table to enhance community engagement.

Beyond fundraising, a key focus of this partnership will be to educate communities about the diverse support services that Maggie’s offers to those living with cancer. From emotional support to practical advice, the Maggie’s centre in Edinburgh provides a lifeline to individuals and families during some of their most challenging times.

 Anna Clarkson, Centre Co-Head, Maggie’s Edinburgh, expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership: “We are delighted to be partnering with Scotmid, an organisation renowned for its dedication to Edinburgh community causes.

“Together, we aim to shine a light on the profound impact cancer has on lives and to remind those living with a diagnosis that they are not alone.

“It is wonderful to think that Scotmid stores will now help ensure people with cancer, as well as family and friends in Edinburgh, get the support they need at possibly the most difficult time of their lives.”

Karen Scott, Chief Executive at Scotmid, said: “Supporting our communities is at the heart of everything we do at Scotmid. We are excited to partner with Maggie’s to raise both awareness and vital funds for a cause that touches so many lives.

“The money we raise will help ensure that more people can access the care and support they need during such a critical time. We look forward to making a difference together.”

Scotmid has raised an impressive £3.25 million across its last ten charity partnerships, establishing itself as a leading retail fundraiser.

This significant contribution is made possible through the hard work and dedication of staff, members, and customers, who participate in numerous fundraising activities and campaigns.

Find out more about Maggie’s: https://www.maggies.org/

Improving the Cancer Journey

NEW DROP-IN AT PILTON COMMUNITY HEALTH PROJECT

New Drop-in!! Pilton Community Health project together with Macmillan Cancer Support and NHS Lothian are happy to announce a new drop-in.

Is cancer part of your story?

If it is, we have drop in sessions 1st Tuesday of the month 12-2 pm with Lee, a Link Worker from ‘Improving the Cancer Journey’, a Macmillan funded service to support people with the non clinical impact of cancer – money, work, the emotional impact & practical issues.

This service is open to families and carers too and offers everyone time to talk about what matters to them, helps them access local supports and services and be a listening ear/point of contact.

#fivewaystowellbeing

#PCHP40

#cancersupport

#family

#community

The NEN North Edinburgh News

Royston Wardieburn Community Centre

Granton Information Centre

Granton Library

Groundbreaking research could revolutionise bowel cancer treatment

New research led by a team of scientists from Queen’s University Belfast and the Cancer Research UK (CRUK) Scotland Institute in Glasgow have made a series of groundbreaking discoveries into tumour biology that may be used to deliver a more effective personalised medicine approach for patients with bowel (colorectal) cancer.

Bowel cancer is the fourth most common cancer in the UK, with around 42,900 new bowel cancer cases and around 16,600 bowel cancer deaths in the UK every year, a statistic that highlights the need for new ways to treat patients with this aggressive disease.

The new study, funded by Cancer Research UK and published today in the prestigious journal Nature Genetics, used a unique and innovative approach developed in Belfast, to identify a set of previously unseen molecular patterns in tumour tissue that provides new information related to treatment response and risk of disease progression.

These remarkable results mean that clinicians and scientists can now draw more information from a patient’s tumour tissue which may lead to better treatment options.

Previously, the most common approach for identifying groups of tumours based on their biological signalling, known as molecular subtyping, used information about how active individual genes are within tumour tissue.

The subtypes identified using this method have shaped understanding of cancer development, progression and response to therapy over the last decade and served as the basis for numerous clinical trials and pre-clinical studies.

Dr Philip Dunne, Reader in Molecular Pathology from the Patrick G Johnston Centre for Cancer Research at Queen’s University Belfast and senior author of the study, explains: “While looking at patterns across individual genes has revealed remarkable insights into cancer signalling, advances in laboratory research over the last decade have shown that assessing activity in groups of closely related genes in combination can provide new understanding that isn’t apparent when using the traditional single gene approaches.”

Given the potential value of this new pathway approach, researchers from Queen’s University Belfast, the CRUK Scotland Institute, University of Zurich, University of Oxford alongside a multinational collaborative group proposed a new data-driven method for reclassification of bowel cancer, which has been published in this new groundbreaking study.

By assembling genes into biological pathways prior to the development of molecular subtypes, the team rearranged tumours into a series of new groups, based on activity across a complex network of cancer-related signalling; all of which appears to be critical in predicting how well a tumour will respond to different treatments such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

To ensure that scientists and clinicians around the world can immediately access these data and test this new subtyping approach, the team have released a freely available classification tool that allows the Belfast-developed approach to be used on tumour samples in any research lab.

Dr Sudhir Malla, Postdoctoral Research Fellow from the Patrick G Johnston Centre for Cancer Research at Queen’s University Belfast and first author of the study commented: “By developing an unrestricted classification tool for the cancer research community, it means that researchers from around the world can reproduce our finding on data emerging from their own collections of tumour samples, to identify biological pathways that cancer cells switch on or off to control their movement, growth and response to their environment.”

Professor Owen Sansom, Director of the Cancer Research UK Scotland Institute in Glasgow, who co-authored the study said: “The research presented today in Nature Genetics exemplifies the value of collaborative research between scientists and clinicians.

“Studies such as this are essential to enable us to understand the complexities of a patient’s tumour and will be used in our pre-clinical laboratories to identify novel treatments specifically targeting the biological patterns we have identified.”

Dr Sam Godfrey, Research Information Lead at Cancer Research UK, said: “Cancer is perhaps the most complex disease we face, and no single treatment will ever beat it.

“Cancer Research UK is delighted to have funded this innovative research, an important step towards giving doctors the insight to see which therapy can best exploit an individual cancer’s weakness.

“Research like this could lead to better and more precise treatments for the thousands of people diagnosed with bowel cancer every year in Scotland.”

The team are now applying their new subtyping approach on tumour samples derived from clinical trials run in the UK, to build the essential clinical evidence needed before the new method can be used to make clinical decision about which treatments a patient should be offered.

‘Early bird’ bladder cancer survivor urges people with possible symptoms to GET CHECKED

A man diagnosed with bladder cancer in 2019 after his wife urged him to get blood in his urine checked has spoken of how she helped save his life.

Glen Long, 48 from Blackridge, West Lothian, has backed the ‘Be the Early Bird’ campaign to highlight the importance of getting unusual, persistent symptoms checked, admitting things could have been very different for him had wife Laura not made him an appointment with his GP practice.

The father of two is now seizing every opportunity to enjoy life, recently celebrating his silver wedding anniversary with Laura and walking the West Highland Way with friends to raise money for charity Fight Bladder Cancer.

The ‘Be the Early Bird’ campaign highlights the benefits of finding cancer at an earlier stage when there’s more treatment options available, a greater likelihood of living well after treatment and better news to tell the family.

Targeting those aged 40 and over, the campaign reinforces the fact that GP practices want to know if people have unusual, persistent symptoms, which could include unexplained bleeding, unusual lumps, unexplained weight loss or something that doesn’t feel normal for them.

Glen’s GP appointment led to him being referred for a series of tests at the Western General Hospital in Edinburgh, with his diagnosis confirmed in June. He underwent surgery to remove the tumour in July, followed by six weekly sessions of chemotherapy injections into his bladder.

As bladder cancer has a high recurrence rate, Glen was monitored every three months, with further surgery required in 2021 to remove a tumour so small that no further chemotherapy was needed. 

Glen, who works as a forklift instructor and storeman, said: “I remember noticing my pee was darker and when I turned the light on, there was blood in the toilet. I just thought it was an infection and kind of brushed it off, but my wife Laura said it wasn’t normal and I needed to get it checked straight away.

“Even when my GP referred me for an ultrasound I didn’t think anything of it. I then needed a flexible cystoscopy which involved a tiny camera going into my bladder through my urethra which wasn’t the most pleasant, but it wasn’t painful. 

“When I was told that the consultant needed to speak to me, I twigged the news might not be great. The only thing I heard him saying was ‘tumour’ and ‘cancer’. After that I can’t remember a thing, it was like white noise. I genuinely thought it was an infection as I didn’t feel ill or sick and had no fatigue.

“They were able to remove the whole tumour which was such a relief. I consider myself very fortunate I had that symptom and did something about it as things could have gone on a very different path.

“I can honestly say that my treatment was virtually pain free and I was fortunate to have had no side effects from the chemotherapy.

“When I was told the tumour had returned I felt more confident as I knew they were on top of things and it had been caught early again. My last scan was clear and if the next one in a couple of months is clear, I’ll move to annual scans which will be another step forward.”

Glen added: “I can’t really explain it but I look at things so differently. It’s like a new lease of life. I feel reborn, like I’ve been given another chance. Even though I’m still regularly monitored, I don’t even really think about it now. If people ask me about it, I’ll tell them, but I’m definitely not dwelling on it.

“It’s probably my wife that saved my life. I know I wouldn’t have made that appointment as quickly. I’d have done the usual and thought that it would have been alright, but now I know the importance of early diagnosis.

“You know your body and if something doesn’t feel right for you, make an appointment with your GP practice. If it turns out to be cancer, finding it early is so important and there’s more they can do to treat it. Having that peace of mind is priceless.”

Dr Carey Lunan, GP said: “Finding and treating cancer as early as possible is a priority for the NHS in Scotland. If you have unusual, persistent symptoms that you’re worried about, we would encourage you to get in touch with your GP practice.

“Your initial appointment may be over the phone, but we’ll always ask you to come in for a face-to-face appointment if an examination or tests are needed.

“Please don’t delay contacting your GP practice, as there’s more we can do to help if cancer is found at an earlier stage.”

People can find out more about possible cancer symptoms at getcheckedearly.org.

Western General’s Cancer Navigation Hub is one year old

The Cancer Navigation Hub, based in Edinburgh Cancer Centre at the Western General Hospital, recently celebrated one year of the service launching.

The team helps patients and healthcare professionals to navigate cancer pathways, ensuring enquiries are directed to the appropriate care team in a timely and efficient way.

The team is made up of Cancer Pathway Coordinators and acts as a single point of contact for patients who’ve received a cancer diagnosis. Coordinators are also trained to assist healthcare professionals and helps to alleviate the pressure on clinical teams.

Katie Seville, Assistant Service Manager in Cancer Performance, said: “In just one year we’ve seen the hub make such a difference to the ease with which patients and staff can access the information and support they need.

“The team is in high demand and we’re looking to further expand and grow the service into new areas, providing more personalised and holistic support for patients throughout their diagnosis and treatment.”

The Cancer Navigation Hub initially served five tumour groups – lung, melanoma, head and neck, gynaecology, and urology. In April 2023, the hub expanded to cover the neuroendocrine tumour group followed by breast in August 2023.

During the first five months of the service (October 2022 to February 2023) the team handled on average over 1,100 calls per month, 38% of which were administrative queries or issues that could be resolved by the Cancer Pathway Coordinators.

In the month after incorporating the breast service, the team handled just over 1,900 calls across all tumour groups, with 44% of all calls being dealt with by the coordinators.

Since January 2023, the Cancer Navigation Hub has also been proactively calling newly diagnosed patients to introduce the hub and direct patients to support services.

In June 2023, during the launch of the new Cancer Strategy, the team was among those to meet Michael Matheson, Cabinet Secretary for NHS Recovery, Health and Social Care.

Congratulations to the team for a brilliant first year.

New ten year cancer strategy launched

A new 10-year Cancer Strategy aims to significantly cut the number of people diagnosed with later stage cancer and to reduce the health inequalities associated with the disease.

Currently around 42% of cancers are diagnosed at the later stages but through continued investment in the Detect Cancer Earlier (DCE) Programme the ambition is to reduce the number diagnosed at stages III and IV in year 10 of the plan to 24%. That would mean around 5,000 fewer people diagnosed with later stage disease in the year 2033.

The strategy is underpinned by a three-year Cancer Action Plan that contains 136 actions. Both documents focus on improving all areas of cancer services, from prevention and diagnosis through to treatment and post-treatment care, with a particular focus on the currently less-survivable cancers.

Health Secretary Michael Matheson, launched the plan at the Cancer Centre at Western General Hospital, Edinburgh, where he met staff delivering the Single Point of Contact service, which helps ensure patients have dedicated person-centred support throughout their treatment.

Mr Matheson said: “Our absolute focus is to improve cancer survival and make sure everyone gets excellent and accessible care. The pandemic had a significant impact on all aspects of health and social care, and cancer services were no exception. This Cancer Strategy will make sure we are properly delivering these vital services and clearly directing future investments.

“The strategy takes a strong public health approach, which means more cancers will be prevented. Those who require diagnostics and treatment will have prompt access to quality services. As well as being able to cure more people, we also recognise the importance of treatment to extend good quality life and the provision of excellent palliative care.

“The Scottish Cancer Network will be at the heart of our strategic ambitions, setting out agreed best clinical practice and assuring people with cancer of common standards of care, no matter where they live.

“We will continue to work closely alongside the NHS, third sector, and industry to deliver quality cancer services for the people of Scotland. The new Scottish Cancer Strategic Board will provide oversight of the strategy and action plan.”

Chair of the Scottish Cancer Coalition and Public Affairs Manager for Cancer Research UK in Scotland Dr Sorcha Hume said: “The Scottish Cancer Coalition works with the Scottish Government to ensure that the voice of cancer charities and patients is heard. We therefore welcome the publication of the new Cancer Strategy for Scotland 2023-2033.

“Our NHS is under more pressure than ever, and it is our sincere hope that this strategy is the first step towards better cancer services for the people of Scotland. It is vital however that implementation is swift, and that the strategy is adequately funded.

“We look forward to continuing our work with the Scottish Government to realise our shared ambition of improving cancer outcomes for everyone in Scotland.”

Lorraine Dallas, Chair of the Less Survivable Cancers Taskforce Scotland and Director of Information, Prevention and Support at the Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation, said: “The new Cancer Strategy for Scotland is a big step in the right direction for people diagnosed with one of the less survivable cancers.

“Those include cancers of the pancreas, lung, stomach, liver, brain and oesophagus (the less survivable cancers) which have an average five-year survival of just 16% from diagnosis. Lung cancer remains Scotland’s single biggest cause of cancer death and a continued focus and action to address this should be an urgent priority.

“We’re encouraged to see a clear commitment to taking action on those cancer types that have the poorest survival. We now need significant investment in research and action to improve cancer diagnostic and treatment services.

“Early diagnosis is crucial when it comes to cancer survival. We know that less survivable cancers are far more likely to be diagnosed in the later stages of the disease and this has a significant impact on treatment options.

“We will work closely with the Government, patients and clinicians to ensure that we now see action to give people who are diagnosed with these cancers a better chance of survival.”

Cancer strategy – https://www.gov.scot/isbn/9781805255444

Cancer action plan – https://www.gov.scot/isbn/9781805255451