Bath MP Wera Hobhouse is urging the government to prioritize support for people living with cancer, following her visit to the Dyson Cancer Centre at the Royal United Hospital (RUH). Her call for reform focuses on breast cancer screening and early diagnosis, sparked by the experiences of a local constituent.
Lucy, diagnosed with primary breast cancer at 38 and incurable secondary breast cancer at 41, shared how her early symptoms were initially dismissed despite her family history. She believes that earlier screening could have dramatically improved her chances of survival.
In England, routine breast cancer screening is currently offered to women aged 50 to 71, every three years. Wera is campaigning for mandatory screening at younger ages and consulted clinicians at the RUH to explore the benefits and challenges of such a change.
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During her visit, Wera met Richard Sutton, Breast Clinical Lead at RUH, who highlighted progress in cancer treatment. He noted that some Stage 4 patients are now living longer thanks to advancements in therapy. Sutton also outlined local trials aimed at fast-tracking specialist referrals for patients showing “red flag” symptoms, reducing delays caused by traditional GP referral routes. He emphasized the importance of education in schools on breast cancer and genetic risks to promote early awareness and timely screening.
Wera’s visit coincided with national discussions fueled by a Cambridge University study recommending advanced scanning methods for women with dense breast tissue. The study suggests these improvements could identify thousands more breast cancers annually, saving hundreds of lives.
The newly opened Dyson Cancer Centre, which treats around 340 patients daily, impressed Wera with its blend of cutting-edge technology and a calming, patient-focused environment. The £50 million facility features outdoor courtyards, quiet rooms for counselling, and thoughtful design elements that prioritize patient comfort.
Ros Helps, lead cancer nurse at RUH, reflected on the centre’s successful first year: “The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. People appreciate not only the high-tech equipment and expert care but also the welcoming atmosphere, beautiful art, and dedicated spaces for sensitive conversations.”
Wera said: “Bath is fortunate to have such exceptional facilities. The Dyson Centre is a tremendous asset, combining state-of-the-art care with compassion. Yet, we must do more to support both patients and our healthcare professionals. Cancer devastates so many lives, and as Lucy’s story shows, our health system currently falls short in early detection and timely treatment.”
She concluded by pledging to continue advocating for enhanced breast cancer diagnostics and a new prostate cancer screening programme for high-risk men. Wera called on the government to make tackling the cancer crisis a top priority, with increased funding and a commitment to speedy diagnosis and treatment within the forthcoming national cancer plan.