Government steps up action on breast cancer
The UK government advances breast cancer care through a trial shortening radiotherapy from three weeks to five days, backed by over 1,000 participants and new screening initiatives.
The government-funded FAST-Forward Boost trial is testing whether breast cancer radiotherapy can be reduced from three weeks to five days while maintaining effectiveness, potentially sparing patients up to 10 hospital visits. The trial, involving more than 1,000 participants across 39 UK hospitals, includes an additional targeted dose to help prevent recurrence. The initiative is part of broader efforts to improve cancer treatment and patient support under the National Cancer Plan.
Health and Social Care Secretary Yvette Cooper highlighted the trial as an example of the UK’s research capabilities, aiming to transform cancer treatment within the NHS. The government is also expanding screening uptake, with 63.6% of women attending their first invitation, though four in 10 still do not attend. Cooper urged eligible women to take up the screening offer to enable earlier diagnosis and improve outcomes.
Ashley Dalton MP, who stepped down from her ministerial role to focus on her health after a metastatic breast cancer diagnosis, has been appointed as an adviser on the National Cancer Plan. Dalton, now living with cancer, will contribute her personal experience and professional background to shape policies that reflect the realities of patients. Her role includes working with Minister James Frith to drive the plan’s commitments forward.
The trial is led by The Institute of Cancer Research, London, and funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR). If successful, the approach could reduce travel costs, time away from work, and free up NHS capacity. The government is also trialling AI for mammogram analysis and collaborating with Breast Cancer Now to improve awareness and post-treatment support over the next three years.