Scientists have launched a landmark study into how extreme UK weather, like heatwaves, storms and floods, affects cancer treatments. Researchers at The Christie hospital, Manchester’s specialist cancer centre, say disruption to travelling to the hospital delays vital treatments like radiotherapy and chemotherapy – and can worsen existing health conditions.
Cancer patients are among the most vulnerable and face growing risks as extreme weather events such as heatwaves, storms, and floods become more frequent and severe. Funded by The Christie Charity, this is the first study to explore the direct effects of climate-driven weather events on cancer treatment.
The hospital warns that “cancer patients are among the most vulnerable and face growing risks as extreme weather events such as heatwaves, storms, and floods become more frequent and severe.
“Radiotherapy, a cornerstone of cancer care, is typically delivered daily in hospital settings. This makes patients particularly susceptible to interruptions during extreme weather.
“Missing or delaying treatment could lead to increased hospital admissions and poorer outcomes.”
So their “groundbreaking new study aims to uncover whether extreme weather events directly affect cancer patients’ ability to attend radiotherapy appointments” and complete their treatment.
Using 10 years of Met Office weather data, researchers will match this information with treatment dates for patients receiving radiotherapy alone or in combination with chemotherapy.
The study will compare patterns during extreme weather conditions with those during normal conditions, examining missed treatments, changes to planned care, hospital stays, and mortality rates.
Findings will help NHS services and support the NHS Green Plans by informing strategies to protect patients during extreme weather.
The evidence may also highlight the need for climate adaptation measures, such as infrastructure improvements and service delivery changes, to minimise future disruptions.
Dr Robert Chuter, principal clinical scientist, says: “Climate change isn’t just an environmental issue — it’s a health emergency.
“Cancer patients rely on timely treatment, and even short delays can have serious consequences.
“Our research will provide the evidence needed to safeguard cancer patients from the escalating impacts of the climate crisis and ensure they receive the best possible care.”
Research such as this is central to The Christie Charity’s commitment to supporting The Christie Hospital’s vision of trebling the number of patients participating in research by 2030.
Studies have shown that cancer patients treated at research-intensive hospitals have better outcomes than those treated in hospitals with little or no research activity.
The Charity has pledged to support and fund this goal with £30m over the next five years to accelerate research and innovation in Manchester, with the ultimate aim of bringing tomorrow’s treatments to patients faster.
* To donate to the Christie Charity, visit – Donate today
This story originally appeared on Express.co.uk
