Surgical Oncology

03/02/2026

There’s encouraging progress in rare cancer care with the Rare Cancers Bill advancing through Parliament – a vital development covered in our latest article. This proposed legislation aims to incentivise research, improve access to clinical trials and support the development of new treatments for rare and less common cancers. It would also help appoint a national lead to coordinate research efforts and improve data sharing for trial recruitment across the UK.

Rare cancers collectively make up a significant proportion of cancer diagnoses but often receive disproportionately low research investment. This Bill represents a meaningful step toward closing that gap and delivering better outcomes for patients affected by these conditions.

Find out more here: https://surgicaloncology.co.uk/rare-cancers-bill-takes-a-step-forward/

05/01/2026

The International Second Opinion Service offered through The Royal Marsden is available virtually for patients worldwide.

This service provides access to multidisciplinary expertise across a wide range of cancers, including complex and rare cases.

Whether you’re seeking reassurance or guidance on a challenging diagnosis, this virtual service connects you with world-leading specialists without the need to travel.

Read more about how the service works and how to access it here: https://surgicaloncology.co.uk/the-international-second-opinion-service-via-royal-marsden/

02/12/2025

Winter may feel safe from the sun, but UV exposure remains a real risk, even on cloudy or frosty days. UVA and UVB rays can still damage skin, contribute to premature aging, and raise the risk of skin cancer.

Our latest article outlines practical winter sun-safety advice: use broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 50), protect exposed skin with hats, scarves and sunglasses, and don’t forget to reapply when outside. Keeping up sun care habits through winter helps protect your skin now and in the long term.

Read more here > https://surgicaloncology.co.uk/skin-protection-for-the-winter-season/

16/10/2025

A recent study from Newcastle University is one of the latest to show how AI is transforming cancer care. Researchers have been using AI to dive into Merkel cell carcinoma patient data, for a better understanding of how this rare, fast-growing skin cancer progresses. With many patients receiving a diagnosis at a late-stage, and a high risk of recurrence, this information will help with making predictions of treatment outcomes.

Read more in the latest article - https://surgicaloncology.co.uk/how-ai-is-changing-the-prognosis-in-merkel-cell-carcinoma/

13/10/2025

Myles Smith, in collaboration with colleagues at The Royal Marsden, is an author on a newly published study in European Journal of Surgical Oncology titled “Management of peripheral-vein leiomyosarcomas, recurrence patterns and individualised treatment strategy.”

The research examines recurrence behaviour and treatment approaches for these rare tumours, helping inform how care can be more precisely tailored to each patient.

You can find more details in the latest news article here >
https://surgicaloncology.co.uk/myles-smith-co-authors-landmark-study-on-peripheral-vein-leiomyosarcomas/

08/10/2025

Mr Myles Smith contributed to a new international study defining melanoma quality indicators, alongside colleagues from the Melanoma Delphi Panel and International Melanoma Expert Panel.

Variation in the management of melanoma, such as that seen in Ontario, highlights the importance of establishing clearer quality frameworks for care.

This work represents an important step towards more consistent, evidence-based standards for melanoma treatment and follow-up.

Read more here: https://surgicaloncology.co.uk/myles-smith-contributes-to-international-study-defining-melanoma-quality-indicators/

02/10/2025

🎙️ Podcast Feature: Rare Sarcomas

Myles Smith recently hosted a SurgOnc Today Podcast focusing on two very rare cancers – Extraskeletal Ewing sarcoma and Extraskeletal osteosarcoma.

Alongside leading US colleagues, the discussion explored how specialist, multidisciplinary care in tertiary centres is vital to improving outcomes for these uncommon but potentially curable sarcomas.

👉 Listen here:

On this episode of SurgOnc Today,  Mr. Myles Smith, Dr. Hari Deshpande, Dr. Alexandra Istl, & Dr. Danielle Cunningham will discuss the treatment of two rare subtypes of sarcoma, highlighting the differences and challenges of diagnosis and treatment. Both types may represent potentially cura...

02/10/2025

Proud to continue supporting Hammersmith & Fulham RFC Juniors (Hammers Juniors as a sponsor!🏉

The Juniors provide such a brilliant environment for young players to build skills, fitness and confidence – and they’re now recruiting new players across age groups.

https://surgicaloncology.co.uk/myles-smith-sponsors-hammersmith-fulham-rfc-juniors-now-recruiting/

24/09/2025

A recent article published in the European Journal of Surgical Oncology explores the role of neoadjuvant imatinib (treatment before surgery) in managing locally advanced gastrointestinal stromal tumours (GISTs). Mr Myles Smith and the GIST research team at The Royal Marsden Hospital led the research, showcasing their dedication to enhancing care pathways for sarcoma and rare tumour patients.

Read more - https://surgicaloncology.co.uk/new-study-highlights-benefits-of-preoperative-imatinib-in-gist/

01/09/2025

☀️ Do you check the UV index before heading outside?

The UV index is a simple daily guide that shows how strong the sun’s rays are and how much protection you need. Even on cloudy days, UV can damage skin and increase the risk of skin cancer.

By building the habit of checking the UV index, you can make smarter choices about sun protection – whether that means applying sunscreen, seeking shade, or wearing protective clothing.

Read more about how to use the UV index to keep yourself and your family safe here > https://surgicaloncology.co.uk/understanding-the-uv-index/

06/08/2025

Children as young as five are learning the importance of sun protection as part of a project that is being trialled in primary schools across Kent, led by the charity Melanoma Fund.

The project is planned to become part of Personal, Social, Health and Economic (PSHE) lessons nationwide from 2026. But research recently published in The Lancet shows people aged under 25 are already ahead of older generations when it comes to sun safety. It found that just 27% of adults aged 65+ regularly use sun protection.

Read more about the project and the study in the latest news piece - https://surgicaloncology.co.uk/teaching-the-next-generation-sun-safety/

01/07/2025

🎗️ Sarcoma Awareness Month

Sarcoma is a rare and complex cancer that requires highly specialist care to achieve the best outcomes. A new report highlights the significant challenges patients face – from delayed diagnosis to accessing experienced multidisciplinary teams.

Mr Myles Smith and his expert team at The Royal Marsden's Sarcoma and Melanoma Unit are dedicated to providing advanced, tailored treatment for sarcoma patients.

Early diagnosis, specialist surgical planning, and coordinated follow-up can make a profound difference for those living with sarcoma. If you or a loved one are facing a sarcoma diagnosis, seeking care from a specialist sarcoma team is essential.

Read about the challenges that face sarcoma patients here:
https://surgicaloncology.co.uk/sarcoma-patients-face-significant-challenges/