Celebrating 25 years of pioneering research at Weston Park Cancer Centre

Last month, the Cancer Clinical Trials Centre (CCTC) at Weston Park Cancer Centre celebrated 25 years of innovative research.

Over the past quarter-century, the CCTC has conducted 1,048 clinical trials involving 18,260 patients. These trials have significantly expanded treatment options for various types of cancer and dramatically improved patient outcomes.

The CCTC is a partnership between Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and the University of Sheffield.

Funding from Weston Park Cancer Charity helped to open the centre in 1999, and the charity has been supporting its work ever since. We currently fund eight research nurse positions at the centre. These vital members of staff organise trials, recruit patients, and support them throughout the trial process.

In addition to shaping the future of cancer treatment, CCTC trials offer patients access to new treatments not yet available on the NHS.

John, from Sandygate was diagnosed with terminal cancer in 2001 but his life was greatly extended through the treatment he received on a clinical trial. He has since raised over £300,000 for Weston Park Cancer Chairty – enough to fund the trial he took part in three times over.

John, who is now a Weston Park Cancer Charity patron said:

“I’ll never be able to thank the CCTC enough for the treatment they gave me. I’ve been able to watch my boys grow up and meet my grandchildren. That wouldn’t have happened if I hadn’t been on that clinical trial.”

Professor Jon Wadsley, Consultant Clinical Oncologist at Weston Park Cancer Centre and CCTC Director said:

“Over the past 25 years, clinical trials have revolutionised the way we treat many cancers.”

“If we look at how our work has impacted thyroid cancer for example: 25 years ago, almost all patients were receiving the same type of treatment, and there were virtually no treatment options available for people with advanced thyroid cancer.

“Thanks to our research, we now have enhanced treatments for low-risk thyroid cancers, which have fewer side effects. We’ve also helped to develop effective treatments for advanced thyroid cancer. This example has been replicated in many other types of cancer that we treat”

Emma Clarke, our CEO said,

“As proud supporters of the Cancer Clinical Trials Centre, we’re delighted to celebrate this important milestone.

“There have been so many important discoveries made over the past 25 years. With the CCTC now exploring even more targeted treatments and cancer vaccines, we’re sure there are many more to come.

“I would like to thank all of our supporters who contribute to the CCTC’s crucial work. By advancing research, you’re helping us to change and save lives.”