MP welcomes major new trial which shows treating prostate cancer with radiotherapy improves survival

South Lakes MP Tim Farron has welcomed a major new trial which found that radiotherapy can provide extended survival time for thousands of men with prostate cancer.

The trial which was conducted by the University of Birmingham and funded by Cancer Research UK found that the use of radiotherapy treatment increased the chance of survival by 11% among men with prostate cancer.

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer affecting UK men, with 47,000 diagnosed every year, of whom around 11,500 sadly pass away.

Tim, who is the chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group on radiotherapy, says the new research should lead to further investment in the treatment.

Currently, the NHS spends only 5% of its cancer budget on radiotherapy services although around 50% of cancer patients will need radiotherapy as a part of their treatment.

Tim said: "Prostate cancer affects 1 in 8 men.

"But they continue to be let down by chronic underinvestment.

"We demand better - with the evidence now clear about the benefits of the treatment, the Government must respond to this news and commit to invest in life-saving radiotherapy."

To sign the petition calling for the Government to invest in radiotherapy service, go here.