News digest – ‘mini tumours’, thyroid drugs, 100,000 Genomes Project, and… do superfoods prevent cancer?

• We reported how scientists are testing cancer drugs on miniature replicas of a patient’s tumour. These lab-grown organoids mimicked how well drugs worked in patients on a clinical trial, and the avatars could one day help doctors tailor treatment. BBC News also had the story.
• Brain tumour research in the UK will receive a £45 million boost, as we announced new funding alongside the Government. Our press release has more on the drive to transform diagnosis and treatment of the diseases that has been stubbornly hard to beat.

UK brain tumour research set to be transformed with £45m funding boost from us and the Government @DHSCgovuk https://t.co/alXaeaWxTn pic.twitter.com/nH6mJy2Sqe

— Cancer Research UK (@CR_UK) February 22, 2018

• A new targeted drug could be used to treat a small number of advanced cancers no matter where they grow in the body, according to new trial results. We reported the innovative clinical trial that is trying to treat a cancer based on its DNA rather than where it develops.
• An NHS research project to uncover the genetic causes of cancers and rare diseases has reached the halfway mark. The 100,000 Genomes Project aims to read the DNA of diseases to improve diagnosis and treatment. Check out our news report for more.
• About 100,000 NHS posts, or 1 in 11, are vacant, according to new figures. The Guardian reports hospital deficits are twice as high as planned even after a winter bailout. We’ve talked before about how the NHS is struggling to diagnose cancers early due to staff shortages and needs more support.
• On average Britons are consuming 50% more calories than they realise, according to new figures. The estimates suggest men typically take in 1,000 more calories than they estimate every day, while for women it’s 800 calories. The Telegraph had more on this.
• Three thyroid cancer treatments have been approved for routine use on the NHS in England, two of which will move from the Cancer Drugs Fund. We reported on the NICE recommendation that will give new options for patients where other treatments haven’t worked.
• Drinking one or more sugary soft drinks a day could increase cancer risk, reports the Guardian. Sugary drinks promote weight gain and obesity increases the risk of 13 types of cancer, but this Australian study suggests these drinks might increase risk regardless of waist size.

And finally

• ‘Do superfoods prevent cancer?’, asks the Guardian. As part of a month long partnership with us they’re taking a closer look at the disease, including mythbusting, meeting our nurses, and giving advice and support for end of life care.

Michael