Cancer researchers call for ambitious survival targets for the 2020s

The NHS should raise their five-year lung cancer survival targets to 35% by 2030, concludes a new 'state of the nation' policy report conducted by UCL. The report, 'Cancer Policy Update: Agenda for the 2020s', led by Professor David Taylor (UCL School of Pharmacy), sets out a vision for improved cancer outcomes for the new decade. Launched at the Royal Society yesterday (9 January), leading UCL cancer experts set out what needs to be done to achieve more ambitious targets for all cancers, building on years of progress in diagnostics and treatment. The report authors call for a new proactive national cancer strategy, supporting UK-wide investment in both early diagnosis and treatment and world-class care for people with advanced cancers. UCL is a world leader in cancer research, with major trials investigating MRI scanning for prostate cancer, early detection of lung cancer, tracking cancer evolution, and more. Commenting on the report, Professor Taylor said: "Earlier diagnosis coupled with rapid and well-coordinated treatment provision is part of the answer. But as more effective ways of controlling advanced cancers become available the health service should ensure that there is flexible and timely access for patients of all ages and social classes in all parts of the country to the full range of diagnostic, surgical, radio-therapeutic and drug interventions needed for achieving individual clinical care excellence.