The event brought together 50 MPs, peers, government representatives, researchers, patients and supporters to discuss how the UK can accelerate progress in pancreatic cancer treatment and improve outcomes for patients.
Alongside showcasing Pancreatic Cancer UK-funded research taking place at Oxford, the reception focused on the charity’s call for pancreatic cancer to remain a priority within the Government’s National Cancer Plan. Key messages included improving access to personalised treatment through tumour testing, expanding access to clinical trials by ensuring eligible patients are linked to available studies, and increasing investment in pancreatic cancer research and treatment development.
Mr Jones attended the event with his co-principal investigator, Dr Michael Gray of the Institute of Biomedical Engineering (IBME). Together, they lead a Pancreatic Cancer UK-funded project investigating whether high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) can stimulate the immune system to target pancreatic cancer.
The reception highlighted the urgent need for action, given the poor survival rates associated with pancreatic cancer and the limited treatment options currently available to many patients. Discussions throughout the event emphasised the importance of supporting research that could lead to new treatment breakthroughs, while ensuring patients can access innovative therapies and clinical trials more quickly.
The event also provided an opportunity for researchers to engage directly with parliamentarians and policymakers, raising awareness of the challenges faced by pancreatic cancer patients and demonstrating the vital role that research, innovation and clinical trials play in improving survival and patient outcomes.
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Dr Keaton Jones in conversation with Eugenie White from Pancreatic Cancer UK. |
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Attendees at the reception outside the Houses of Parliament. |