UK cancer services overhauled
The Government has launched a five year plan aimed at improving cancer services in the UK. It focuses on more efficient prevention and diagnosis of the disease, as well as faster treatment and better care for patients. Health Secretary Alan Johnson promised that the £370 million NHS Cancer Reform Strategy will do ‘more to help reduce the risk of developing cancer, more to ensure access to high quality treatment and more to deliver care in the most clinically appropriate and convenient setting for patients’.
In terms of preventing cancer, the plan includes measures aimed at helping people to quit smoking, such as considering the removal of cigarette vending machines and displaying cigarettes less prominently in shops. It also aims to look at regulating the use of sun beds, to reduce the risk of skin cancer, while a new HPV vaccine will tackle cervical cancer.
Measures aimed at improving early diagnosis of cancer include an extension of the Breast Cancer Screening Programme to all women aged 47-73 by 2012, with £100 million earmarked for new digital mammography equipment. The NHS Bowel Screening Programme will also be extended, to include all men and women aged 70-75 by 2010.
There are also plans to speed up the approval of new cancer drugs and cut waiting times for radiotherapy treatment with a £200 million investment in new staff and equipment. Clinical Director of Cancer Services Mike Richards said: ‘The commitments in the Cancer Reform Strategy will enable us to develop world-class cancer services in this country, saving more lives and ensuring patients get the care they deserve’.
Sources:
Plan to improve cancer treatment
Comprehensive strategy for NHS cancer services