Cancer Research UK has called for a single, joined-up system to speed up cancer trials across the NHS. The charity made this even though cancer death rates have dropped to the lowest level on record.
Cancer Research UK pushes for faster trials
The charity demanded a system that cuts unnecessary red tape and speeds up approvals for cancer trials in the NHS. It also called for research prioritisation in the health services, including the time workers can dedicate to research.
The charity demands these reforms despite cancer death rates being at the lowest levels on record. New research indicates that around 247 people in every 100,000 in the UK are expected to die from cancer in any given year.
However, the charity warns that continued prevention is important to keep progress from stalling. Cancer mortality rates have now dropped by 27% from the peak of around 355 people in every 100,000 in 1989.
Cancer Research UK credits the progress to breakthroughs in prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. It also notes that a ‘golden age’ of cancer research made these breakthroughs possible.
Moreover, the charity-credited policy action to tackle preventable risk factors such as smoking contributed to falling death rates. Similarly, screening programmes for breast, bowel, and cervical cancer also contributed.
Still, the charity has said that more action is needed to support the attained progress and prevent the UK from falling behind.
‘The UK has been a global leader in cancer research, but we can’t take progress for granted. It’s essential that the government makes it easier and faster to set up clinical trials, as well as providing NHS staff with the time and space to carry out life-saving research,’ said Dr. Sam Godfrey, the Science Engagement Lead at Cancer Research UK.
NHS needs to play a critical role in supporting progress against cancer
The government has set up a flagship plan published last month, which commits the NHS to meeting key cancer waiting time standards. The programme called the National Cancer Plan promises patients faster diagnosis, quicker treatment, and more support to live well.
Additionally, by March 2029, the NHS will have to meet certain targets to ensure that it has been working efficiently. These targets include 85% of cancer patients starting treatment within 62 days of referral, 96% of patients starting treatment within 31 days of a decision to treat, and 80% of patients receiving a diagnosis or all-clear within 28 days of an urgent suspected cancer referral.
Cancer Research UK has called the plan an important step towards improving cancer outcomes. However, it still demands more action to secure the UK’s position as a global leader in cancer research.