ABPI response to National Cancer Plan

The government has published its National Cancer Plan, outlining how it intends to transform cancer care and outcomes in England by 2035. The plan aims for patients to receive faster diagnosis, treatment and the support for life with cancer.

Responding to the plan, Richard Torbett, ABPI Chief Executive, said: “This clear and ambitious plan rightly focuses on improving cancer patients' outcomes, as well as building research capacity to put the UK at the forefront of cancer research and innovation.

“Our members will welcome the focus on faster diagnosis, and on reducing variation in access to treatment. Too many patients still experience significant variations in care based on where they live, despite clear NICE guidelines on the treatments they should be entitled to.

“Improving access to clinical trials and genomic testing will ensure innovation in cancer care can translate into real-world benefits for patients. The recent UK-US agreement on pharmaceuticals complements the actions in this plan and will also allow more innovative medicines to reach a greater number of NHS patients.

“We will continue to work with the government and the NHS to turn the ambition of the cancer plan into meaningful improvements in patient care.”