Cancer treatment in UK

Hello

Is the cancer treatment in the UK fast?

Let say diagnosed today, then when will be the earliest treatment?

Just wanted to know how long we need to wait and wondering if the medication is upto date one as there are new immunotherapy and targetted treatment worldwide.

Is UK NHS giving those brand new therapies?

Parents
  • Hi

    Depends on the type of cancer you have, and what grade, stage etc, as stated by @SFUC.  I live in Derbyshire and had Stage 2, Grade 3 breast cancer and was diagnosed in August 2023.  Treatment started in October 2023 (but in between were lots of appointments with consultants and specialist nurses).  I did have immunotherapy in the form of Pembrolizumab alongside Carboplatin and Docetaxel chemotherapy, followed by EC2/Pembro combined.  The treatment was successful and I had a lumpectomy in April 2024.  However, the immunotherapy has caused issues with my kidneys, reducing the function at one point from 76% to 19%.  With treatment and hospitalisation, it is now up to 56% but they don't think it will ever return to my previous 76% baseline.  So yes, the NHS are offering new immunotherapy, targeted treatment, but it is on a case by case basis.  Not everyone gets it and likely depends on the type of cancer and treatability etc.  It is also not a miracle drug, as it clearly comes with its own complications along with the possible benefits.   

    Your question is a little difficult to answer in detail, as it is a bit vague. But I hope my "case study" helps provide you with some information.

    Best wishes and good luck.

Reply
  • Hi

    Depends on the type of cancer you have, and what grade, stage etc, as stated by @SFUC.  I live in Derbyshire and had Stage 2, Grade 3 breast cancer and was diagnosed in August 2023.  Treatment started in October 2023 (but in between were lots of appointments with consultants and specialist nurses).  I did have immunotherapy in the form of Pembrolizumab alongside Carboplatin and Docetaxel chemotherapy, followed by EC2/Pembro combined.  The treatment was successful and I had a lumpectomy in April 2024.  However, the immunotherapy has caused issues with my kidneys, reducing the function at one point from 76% to 19%.  With treatment and hospitalisation, it is now up to 56% but they don't think it will ever return to my previous 76% baseline.  So yes, the NHS are offering new immunotherapy, targeted treatment, but it is on a case by case basis.  Not everyone gets it and likely depends on the type of cancer and treatability etc.  It is also not a miracle drug, as it clearly comes with its own complications along with the possible benefits.   

    Your question is a little difficult to answer in detail, as it is a bit vague. But I hope my "case study" helps provide you with some information.

    Best wishes and good luck.

Children
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