A landmark study of paediatric brain tumour services from the Tessa Jowell Brain Cancer Mission has highlighted regional and local variations in NHS provision, as it seeks to enhance treatment for patients.
The report was officially launched on December 2 at an event hosted by Great Ormond Street Hospital, at which Health Minister Ashley Dalton MP spoke. The event also marked the launch of the new Tessa Jowell Academy for Paediatrics, a national hub for training and collaboration in paediatric neuro-oncology, together with a roadmap to improve treatment and care for children with a brain tumour.
Brain tumours are the most common cause of death from cancer in children. Of those who are cured, many will experience severe long-term effects from both the tumour and the treatment. More than 400 children in the UK are diagnosed with brain tumours every year. While every centre is staffed by highly committed professionals providing safe and effective core treatment in line with international standards – such as surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy – the study highlights variation in other areas.
The Master, Professor Richard Gilbertson, is Chair of the Tessa Jowell Brain Cancer Mission, a non-profit dedicated to improving treatment, care and research for brain cancer. The organisation is named in memory of Dame Tessa Jowell, the widely-respected cabinet minister in Tony Blair and Gordon Brown’s governments.
Also on Tuesday, Cambridge University Hospitals became one of four paediatric neuro-oncology centres designated a Tessa Jowell Centre of Excellence for Children, highlighting the strength of its services for children with a brain tumour.
Read the full media release on the Tessa Jowell Brain Cancer Mission website.
The Master, Professor Richard Gilbertson, pictured second left, with Health Minster Ashley Dalton MP, third from left. Also pictured, from left: Dr Stephen Lowis (TJBCM), Nicky Huskens (TJBCM CEO), Professor Darren Hargrave (Great Ormond Street Hospital) and Jess Mills (daughter of Dame Tessa Jowell).
