Clatterbridge launches two pioneering cancer trials offering new hope for patients

Clatterbridge Cancer Centre has launched two new radiotherapy trials that could make a real difference for people with advanced lung cancer and rare brain tumours.

The PRINCE and APPROACH trials are the latest in a series of pioneering research projects taking place at Clatterbridge, helping patients get access to cutting-edge treatments and pushing the boundaries of cancer care.

The PRINCE trial, which is part of the wider TOURIST platform, is looking at whether giving high-dose palliative radiotherapy alongside standard treatments can help people with stage IV non-small cell lung cancer live longer and feel better.

Dr Tony Pope, consultant clinical oncologist and lead for the PRINCE trial, said: “These trials are asking important questions for patients we really want to help more. Radiotherapy is such a powerful tool and it’s great to see research that focuses on people whose cancer has spread beyond the chest. We want to keep pushing for better results on top of what systemic therapies already do.”

The APPROACH trial is open to patients with oligodendroglioma, which is a rare type of brain tumour. It’s comparing standard photon radiotherapy with proton beam therapy to see if the newer treatment can better protect healthy brain tissue and help people keep their memory and cognitive function for longer.

Proton beam therapy has only recently become available in the UK and is designed to be more precise, limiting damage to healthy cells. Patients taking part will have either standard treatment at Clatterbridge or proton therapy at The Christie in Manchester.

Dr Shaveta Mehta, consultant clinical oncologist and principal investigator for the APPROACH trial, said: “We’re really excited to be able to offer this trial to patients with this rare tumour. Proton treatment isn’t normally available on the NHS for this group, so it’s an important chance to see how it could help people live well for longer.”

Dr Gillian Heap, director of research operations at Clatterbridge, added: “Research like this is vital for moving treatment forward and giving our patients the best possible care. It’s fantastic to see these two new studies getting underway.”

To find out more about cancer research and clinical trials at Clatterbridge Cancer Centre, visit their website.

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