The innovative cancer treatment aid 5-ALA is now available
across the country and will transform treatment for
patients.
Known as ‘the pink drink’, 5-ALA uses fluorescent dye and
ultraviolet light to make cancerous cells glow under UV
light. This allows surgeons to more accurately identify the
affected areas of the brain.
The treatment aid will help to tackle some of the hardest
to treat cases and make sure healthy cells are left
untouched.
Around 2,000 patients a year could benefit, according to
new figures released today.
The announcement comes one year on from the death of
Baroness , who died from brain cancer in May 2018.
The treatment aid has been rolled out in every neurological
centre in England as part of the NHS’s contribution to the
Brain Cancer Mission, established by the
government after her death.
The NHS Long Term
Plan aims to save thousands more lives by catching
more cancers early and starting treatment fast. The
ambition is that by 2028, an extra 55,000 people each year
will survive for 5 years or more following their cancer
diagnosis.
Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, , said:
fought passionately and courageously for more
recognition of rare brain cancers before she tragically
passed away last year.
One year on, the effects of her tireless campaigning can
already been seen. I am proud to announce we have
now rolled out this groundbreaking treatment aid across
the country, transforming care for 2,000 patients every
year – a fitting testament to Tessa’s memory.
A cancer diagnosis is life-changing, but I want every
single patient to feel reassured that they have access to
the best and fastest care in our wonderful NHS. While
more people are surviving cancer than ever before, we can
and must do more, especially for people with few options
left like those with rare brain cancer.
As part of our Long Term Plan, this new pioneering
technology is already saving lives – offering thousands
of patients a greater chance of recovery and hope for the
future.
Cally Palmer, National Cancer Director at NHS England,
said:
This is a positive step forward for brain cancer
treatment and patients are already benefiting from
’s inspirational campaigning in her final
months.
Transforming the lives of millions of people with cancer
is at the heart of NHS England’s Long Term Plan and we
are rapidly driving forward action to catch more cancers
earlier, provide innovative new treatments and save tens
of thousands more lives every year.
