Cancer experts from across the world gathered at a Newcastle-led conference to share the latest advancements in children’s cancer research.
The conference was established by the Innovative Therapies for Children and Adolescents with Cancer (ITCC) in 2023.
ITCC leads new treatment research for children and young people with cancer. 68 hospitals and 25 research institutes, including Newcastle Hospitals and Newcastle University, are part of the consortium across 18 European countries.
Over 250 scientists and doctors from Europe, the USA, and Australia attended the conference, bringing together expertise on the latest treatments for children with cancer.
As part of the two-day agenda, over 80 presentations were delivered, covering topics such as cellular therapies, precision medicine, artificial intelligence, and innovative targeted therapies.
Research excellence
Newcastle Hospitals has a long-standing reputation for world-leading research, thanks to a close partnership with Newcastle University.
The Great North Children’s Hospital (GNCH), located at the Royal Victoria Infirmary, oversees a programme of around 25 trials of treatments for children’s cancer.
Ten of these are early phase trials- usually open at selected sites in the UK, Europe, or globally – test new cancer treatments that are in the earlier stages of development.
Recent research includes the discovery of a genetic marker in neuroblastomas, a rare and aggressive cancer that has a poor survival rate.
The genetic marker is associated with a poorer outcome for high-risk patients, so its discovery could help inform better, more effective treatment plans.
Outstanding service
In 2024, Newcastle Hospitals and Newcastle University were announced as one of six Tessa Jowell centres for excellence.
The expert-led review commended Newcastle’s well-organised team, excellent clinical trials opportunities, and comprehensive education.
Dr Quentin Campbell-Hewson, consultant paediatric oncologist at GNCH, said:
“Making sure we can offer the latest trials and potential new treatments is a vital part of the care we give patients in Newcastle.
“This conference was an excellent opportunity to share and learn about the latest developments in children’s cancer from world-leading experts.
“The conference wouldn’t have been possible without the support of Newcastle Hospitals Charity and Children’s Cancer North, as well as our sponsors.”
Sponsors included:
• C-FURTHER
• LifeArc
• Roche
• Children with Cancer UK
• AstraZeneca
• Newcastle Hospitals Charity
• Children’s Cancer North
• Recordati
• Solving Kids’ Cancer UK
• CCLG: The Children’s and Young People’s Cancer Association
• Little Princess Trust
