Historic decline in cancer deaths, say Kingston University senior lecturers

According to Kingston University's Ahmed Elbediwy – Senior Lecturer in Cancer Biology & Clinical Biochemistry and Nadine Wehida – Senior Lecturer in Genetics and Molecular Biology, here are a few main factors:

1. Screening

The NHS cervical screening programme has been particularly effective by identifying pre-cancerous changes before cancer develops. Other programmes, including those for breast and colorectal cancer, have also been massively successful. This early detection is absolutely key for allowing effective treatment.

2. Research

There have been huge advances in cancer research that have transformed the availability and effectiveness of treatment options. Targeted therapies and personalised medicine are increasingly common, allowing healthcare professionals to expertly tailor treatments which align with a person’s genetics.

3. Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy is a type of cancer treatment which uses the patient’s immune system to identify and attach cancerous cells. This type of treatment has seen huge leaps and researchers are exploring preventive vaccines for cancers such as lung and ovarian.

The not-so-great news

Whilst cancer deaths are falling, it must be noted that the total number of people dying of cancer is still rising, due to UK population growth and an increase in life expectancy. As we age, the accumulation of mutations and cellular damage increases, which in turn increases our cancer risk.

For the future

Although there are some outliers, the overall projections are positive, with an expected decrease in cancer deaths of around 6% between 2024–26 and 2028–40 within the next two decades. This is naturally contingent on continued investment into screening, meaning therapies will advance and prevention will expand – but lots of hope for the future.