ITN World Cancer Day | Working together to tackle cancer

Working Together: To Tackle Cancer

One in two of us will be diagnosed with cancer in our lifetime. With the advancement of new technologies and treatments, cancer survival rates have doubled in the last 40 years and continue to improve. This programme will showcase the developments and challenges faced by some of the leading cancer charities in the UK, highlight medical advances of organisations in the sector and hear first-hand accounts of the impact cancer has on those living with it.

The key to better outcomes for patients living with cancer is collaboration. We must work together to help create a cancer-free world.

Partner Films

Innovative Digital Solutions

By 2040, there will be 27.5 million new cancer cases worldwide, putting a growing strain on healthcare systems. By collaborating with healthcare providers, Accord Healthcare is working hard to try and improve the quality of life of cancer patients and their access to better care and support.

Eliminating cervical cancer for the next generation

Following the implementation of the HPV vaccine in 2008, cervical cancer cases have dramatically reduced in young women who were offered this vaccine. Cancer Research UK have been behind the research and say they have the potential to reduce cases to the point where almost no one develops it, a pivotal moment in time.

Bridging the gap in breast cancer diagnostics

One in seven women in the UK will develop breast cancer in their lifetime and future outcomes could be further improved with more tailored treatment. Molecular diagnostics organisation, Cerca Biotech, have produced a test to aid patients in receiving the targeted treatment plan they are most likely to respond to.

A new understanding of cancer

Daiichi Sankyo believes earlier cancer diagnosis and genetic testing are improving outcomes and facilitating a greater understanding of the mechanisms behind cancers. This is paving the way for a new generation of future treatment options, but also unearthing new challenges which require collaboration to solve.

Reducing inequality in cancer care

Inequalities have always existed in cancer care but have too often been ignored. Gilead Sciences and Kite, a Gilead company are working to reduce health inequality in cancer, to give patients the best possible outcome, no matter what their circumstances.

Combination therapy

The use of combination therapies has the potential to improve outcomes for many cancer patients but currently these treatments are not easily accessible in the UK. Sanofi believes multi-stakeholder collaboration is critical for finding a holistic solution, so that they can offer patients innovative cancer treatments via the NHS in the future.

New advances improving the patient journey

Radiotherapy is an essential part of treatment for cancer patients, but a lack of budget means there are often delays, with some patients not having access to the treatment. We met with Varian, a Siemens Healthineers company, to discuss the impact this has on patients, and how new advances can improve the patient journey going forward.

Thought Leaders

How surgical innovations can lead to better outcomes

Surgery remains the main treatment for most cancers, but earlier diagnosis is key to surgery being a success. The British Association of Surgical Oncology explain how the advances in this field, including robotics and genomics, will lead to better patient outcomes.

Breakthroughs in treatment for blood cancer

There is little awareness of Blood Cancer, compared to more prevalent cancers, even though it is the fifth most common cancer in the UK. Blood Cancer UK has recently seen significant breakthroughs in treatment, like CAR-T therapy, after investing millions in research.

Raising awareness of secondary breast cancer

Secondary breast cancer can be treated but cannot be cured. By raising awareness of the signs and symptoms, Breast Cancer Now, are working to ensure that those living with secondary breast cancer, receive the most suitable treatment and care.

How the cost-of-living crisis is affecting people living with cancer

The current cost-of-living crisis is having a disproportionate effect on people living with cancer. Macmillan Cancer Support are campaigning for change and are doing all they can to provide support, such as providing financial grants and advice to those who need it.

Understanding your risk of prostate cancer

Prostate Cancer is the most common cancer among men, but too many are being diagnosed too late for a cure. Prostate Cancer UK are raising awareness of the health inequalities and the risk factors men should be aware of.

Digital support for young people with cancer

Cancer in young people is rare, but when a 13 – 24-year-old is diagnosed they require specialist care and support. Teenage Cancer Trust explain how their support is going digital to meet the needs of this demographic.

WORKING TOGETHER:
TO TACKLE CANCER