Daijiworld Media Network - London
London, Feb 2: Cancer patients in England are being denied access to cutting-edge radiotherapy treatments due to bureaucratic hurdles and funding gaps, doctors have warned.
The Royal College of Radiologists (RCR) and Radiotherapy UK highlighted that innovative therapies, including stereotactic ablative body radiotherapy (SABR) and molecular radiotherapy (MRT), are widely available in other countries but remain limited in the NHS. Patients miss out on more precise treatments with fewer side effects and shorter courses, impacting survival rates.
Surface-guided radiation therapy (SGRT), which improves accuracy and protects vital organs, is offered in only half of cancer centres. Hospitals often rely on local charities to cover the £250,000 cost due to lack of NHS funding.
Dr Nicky Thorp of RCR said, “Some cancer patients are missing out on treatments that could treat their cancer in fewer doses with fewer side effects. Doctors want to help, but the postcode lottery prevents consistent access.”
Professor Pat Price of Radiotherapy UK added, “Cutting-edge treatments like SABR and SGRT are routine abroad, yet in England, access depends on where you live. It’s shocking that hospitals are funded for traditional therapies but not for newer, more effective options.”
While SABR is used for lung cancer across the NHS, its use for liver, prostate, and kidney cancers is extremely limited, forcing some patients to seek private care. The outdated NHS funding model discourages hospitals from offering these advanced treatments for cancers beyond lung cancer.
Cancer Research UK noted that inequalities in treatment access contribute to poor survival rates, despite the UK’s global research leadership. Aging radiotherapy machines also add to growing NHS waiting lists.
NHS England said the upcoming national cancer plan will expand access to innovative therapies. “Every NHS trust delivering radiotherapy can already offer SABR where clinically appropriate. The cancer plan will address consistent access to proven innovations across the NHS,” a spokesperson said.