WORKING TOGETHER
TO TACKLE CANCER
Presented by Simon Thomas
Presented by Simon Thomas
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.
Approved by the featured organisations.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Approved by BASO
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.
Approved by Blood Cancer UK
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.
Approved by Breast Cancer Now
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.
Approved by Macmillan Cancer Support
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.
Approved by Prostate Cancer UK
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.
Approved by Teenage Cancer Trust
Presented by
Presenter Simon Thomas is a well-known and respected British television presenter who worked on Blue Peter for six years, presented live Premier League football on Sky Sports from 2016 to 2018 and who has recently made his debut as the new lead presenter of Soccer Saturday. Simon is also a podcaster, author and President of Blood Cancer UK.
Simon Thomas presents ‘Working Together: To Tackle Cancer’ where we look at ground-breaking medical advancements on the horizon and thought leaders give their insight into why collaboration is key to better outcomes for those living with cancer, now and in the future.
Each film included in this programme has been approved and complied by the brand associated with that content as identified in the descriptions above. Additional content has been approved by a featured organisation where indicated on this page.
The incredible research and support in this area is funded by donations. Click on the individual links below to make a contribution to any of the charities involved in the programme.
