Brain Tumours Research and Treatment 2025-05-08

She pays tribute to the lead MP and shares her personal experience with a young constituent, Archie, who was diagnosed with a rare form of brain tumour. She highlights the availability of promising drugs in some regions but not others, emphasising the need for equal access.

He pays tribute to the lead MP's sister Margaret, praising her commitment to the Labour party and community. He commends the lead MP for her work on brain tumour research and treatment.

Stresses the need for increased funding for research into brain tumours, particularly in Northern Ireland. He mentions that between 2017 and 2021, there were 409 brain tumour cases diagnosed per year in Northern Ireland. Shannon highlights that more than half of brain tumour cases are among women and calls on the Government to work alongside the Department of Health in Northern Ireland to tackle this issue. He also suggests making eye tests free for those who need them but cannot afford them.

Supports the debate and shares a personal story of a constituent, Alex, who was diagnosed with glioblastoma in 2023. Brickell highlights the lack of change in treatment options for brain tumours over the past two decades despite advancements in other areas.

Charlie Maynard shared his experience with a family member diagnosed with glioblastoma, highlighting the challenges faced by those affected. He cited statistics on brain tumour diagnoses and deaths in the UK, questioning the allocation of research funds promised by the Government. He called for confirmation that the £40 million fund is being fully used, committing to allocate the remaining £28.7 million within a decade, and hosting an annual global conference to bring together world experts.

Shockat Adam emphasised the importance of eye tests in detecting brain tumours early, noting that they are cost-efficient and accessible. He questioned whether there could be a national awareness campaign to link eye tests with brain tumour detection. He also mentioned the effectiveness of local community events in providing information about diagnosis access.

Helen Morgan discussed the long-lasting impacts and life-altering effects of low-grade tumours, citing her constituent Madi Ruby's experience. She highlighted challenges faced by local hospitals in providing timely treatment for cancer patients and called on the Minister to listen to the pleas from Members to improve brain tumour care.

Discussed treatment deserts for brain tumour patients in rural areas. Highlighted the struggles of constituents facing long travel distances, lack of public transport, and reduced support due to funding cuts. Advocated for more cancer nurses, improved diagnosis targets, faster access to new treatments, and increased research into vaccine treatments.

Acknowledged the importance of brain tumour research and paid tribute to Isla Tansey’s story. Highlighted ongoing efforts by the NIHR in funding brain cancer research. Raised concerns about the speed of project allocations and encouraged further steps for early-career researchers and clinical trials access. Questioned whether measures from the Rare Cancers Bill would be included in the national cancer plan.

Charlie Maynard shared his sister’s story, highlighting her fundraising efforts for brain tumour research. He raised concerns about the acquired brain injury strategy and its relevance to changes in disability support.

Christine Jardine discussed disparities in drug access for patients with brain tumours, emphasising the need for more equitable distribution of treatments across different regions and socioeconomic groups.

John McDonnell expressed frustration at the slow progress being made in treating brain tumours. He emphasised the need for 'zest' to accelerate research and improve patient outcomes.

Jim Shannon highlighted the importance of ongoing research into brain tumour treatments, citing examples from his constituency where local initiatives are making a difference in raising awareness and funding for research.

Phil Brickell spoke about clinical trials, noting the importance of these studies in advancing medical knowledge and improving treatment options for patients with brain tumours.

Shockat Adam brought expertise on optometry to the debate, discussing how eye tests can be instrumental in diagnosing early signs of brain tumours. He advocated for better integration between optical health and neurological care.

Helen Morgan highlighted the need to address low-grade brain tumours, which often go underfunded compared to more aggressive forms of cancer. She emphasised the importance of research and better access to treatments for these less severe but still life-threatening conditions.

Dr Evans shared the story of Isla’s stones, a powerful metaphor highlighting the impact of brain tumours on young lives. He also raised concerns about the acquired brain injury strategy and its relevance to changes in disability support.

The NHS is making progress in diagnosing and treating cancers more effectively. They are working to improve diagnostic waiting times, increase MRI and CT tests availability, and aim to diagnose 100,000 more people faster within the next year. The Government is planning a national cancer plan later this year that will address rarer cancers like brain tumours specifically. Over 80% of patients referred for cancer had it ruled out or diagnosed within 28 days in March due to increased investment in NHS services.

Called for intervention and challenge to the system to make progress. Launched a drug trial in July 2018 named after Margaret Jowell using immunotherapy on people with glioblastoma, only possible due to Secretary of State's intervention. The structure of drug trials is difficult, so this trial will be conducted at UCL and UCLH site only.