Current Landscape:
The NHS is undergoing a major transformation in cancer care, driven by the NHS Long Term Plan’s goals to save 55,000 more lives annually by 2028 and diagnose 75% of cancers at an early stage. Achieving these aims requires better quality of life for patients, faster diagnosis, and more equitable care.
Progress is already visible: by March 2024, over 75% of patients received a diagnosis or cancer was ruled out within 28 days of referral, and early diagnosis rates rose for the first time in a decade. Innovation remains central, with new technologies accelerating detection and treatment.
The Fit for the Future Health Plan builds on this progress with bold initiatives, including:
- Expanding HPV vaccination to help eliminate cervical cancer by 2040
- Rolling out targeted lung cancer screening to detect up to 9,000 additional early-stage cancers annually
- Introducing at-home self-sampling kits for cervical screening
- Improving screening access through the NHS App
The plan also highlights the growing role of health data and research, including national trials of blood tests to detect multiple cancers. Within five years, the NHS expects to adopt at least one major breakthrough in early detection technology.
Continued innovation, collaboration, and patient-centred care will be key to delivering earlier diagnosis, better outcomes, and a more personalised cancer journey.
Importance and timeliness of the event:
The NHS Oncology Conference is an essential and timely event, as it provides a crucial platform for healthcare professionals, researchers and policymakers to come together and discuss the ongoing evolution of cancer care. This conference serves as an opportunity to assess progress, share best practices and collaborate on innovative solutions. Given the rapid advancements in cancer treatments, technologies and diagnostic tools, the event is especially important for ensuring that the latest developments are integrated into clinical practice. The conference also offers a vital space to address key issues like reducing health inequalities, improving patient experience and fostering collaboration across Cancer Alliances, all of which are integral to achieving the NHS's overarching goals. In this critical moment of transformation, the conference not only highlights the progress made but also sets the stage for future advancements that will shape the future of oncology in the NHS.
Key content streams:
- Advancements in Cancer Diagnostics: Enhancing Early Detection: High-resolution digital imaging and AI are revolutionising cervical cancer detection, while emerging diagnostic tools continue to improve early cancer diagnosis and patient outcomes.
- Reducing Health Inequalities in Cancer Care: Addressing barriers to access and ensuring equitable care across diverse populations.
- Improving Quality of Life and Patient Experience: Enhancing the patient journey through better support and holistic care.
- Role of Cancer Alliances in Local Care Pathways: Discussing how Cancer Alliances improve coordination and patient outcomes.
- Innovations in Treatment and Aftercare: Exploring advancements in precision medicine, immunotherapies and digital health tools for aftercare.
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