Leeds' contribution to the global fight against cancer

The University of Leeds has significantly advanced global cancer treatment through pioneering radiotherapy techniques, developing the breast cancer drug tamoxifen, and leading clinical trials. To celebrate, a selection of research projects was collected and shared.

Our research has enhanced the precision and effectiveness of radiotherapy, offering non-surgical options for certain cancers. The discovery and development of tamoxifen have provided a vital therapy for hormone-sensitive breast cancer. Additionally, Leeds' leadership in clinical trials has established new treatment standards, improving patient outcomes worldwide.

I’m hopeful that in the future—perhaps before the NHS’s 100th anniversary—we’ll be able to cure most people’s cancer with personalised radiotherapy, as an out-patient, in as little as one week.

—Professor David Seabag-Montifiore

Impact

• Health impact: advanced cancer diagnosis, treatment, and care through multiple research projects

Key information

• Major funders: Cancer Research UK
• Disciplines: medicine, healthcare, oncology
• Investigators: Professor David Sebag-Montefiore, Dr Kersten Hall, Professor Julia Brown

Keywords: radiotherapy, cancer treatment, cancer research, history of medicine, tamoxifen, chemoprevention, chemotherapy