Swimmer Archie Goodburn met with the UK's Prime Minister to advocate for increased investment in brain cancer research and improved patient care. Goodburn, who has inoperable brain tumors, made a public plea for more resources to be directed towards research and clinical trials, emphasizing the need for trials happening internationally to be made accessible in the UK.
During an appearance on BBC Breakfast ahead of the meeting, Goodburn called for the establishment of a national brain cancer lead. "We are not seeing them [clinical trials] in the UK and it is unfair and unjust," he stated, urging for greater investment to make a difference for patients and their families. He described the current situation as unbearable suffering and expressed hope that the meeting would present a "unique opportunity for change."
Goodburn emphasized that the status quo is unacceptable and that a risk-averse approach is not viable when lives are at stake. His advocacy has aimed to open high-level government conversations about the injustices faced by the brain tumor community and to campaign for change.
Charity Brain Tumour Research reported that brain cancer is the leading cause of cancer death for individuals under 40 in the UK. The charity also noted that external organizations fund over 75% of brain tumor research, with government funding accounting for only 25%.
Earlier this year, the Rare Cancers Bill, championed by MP Scott Arthur, became law. This legislation seeks to encourage research and investment in treatments for rare cancers, defined as those affecting fewer than 1 in 2,000 people. However, Goodburn argued that a dedicated brain cancer lead would provide a more focused approach to specific research and trial opportunities.
Arthur commented that the Rare Cancers Act is vital for driving necessary research and that Goodburn's meeting with the Prime Minister could lead to further advancements in the field. He acknowledged Goodburn as a strong advocate and expressed hope for concrete progress to be made.