Professor Gerry Hanna
Vice-Clinical Lead, Cancer Trials Ireland
Investment in clinical trials is vital for improving cancer research in Ireland. A centralised funding model can boost research, patient safety and innovation.
A robust investment in clinical trial infrastructure is vital for advancing research and enhancing routine patient care. The current system in the HSE relies heavily on piecemeal funding, often supported by charities, for critical roles like clinical trial nurses, research staff and administrative personnel. This lack of permanent funding undermines job security and hinders the appeal of these roles, making it difficult to attract and retain talent.
Clinical trial support requirements
A fundamental, ongoing financial commitment to integrate clinical trial support into routine clinical care is crucial. Such investment is not merely about improving research outcomes. Embedding clinical trial staff into cancer clinics can significantly enhance patient safety and the quality of routine care. Research nurses, for example, often detect overlooked symptoms or treatment side effects, enabling quicker interventions.
International examples, such as the NHS in the UK, demonstrate the effectiveness of a centralised funding approach. The UK’s National Cancer Research Institute has successfully leveraged national investments to develop robust clinical trial infrastructures, attracting early-phase trials and fostering innovation.
In Ireland, radiotherapy clinical
trials exemplify the potential
of strategic investment.
Radiotherapy trials as an exemplar
In Ireland, radiotherapy clinical trials exemplify the potential of strategic investment. A renewed focus, driven by Cancer Trials Ireland and initiatives like the Irish Radiation Research Oncology Group, has fuelled growth in this area. Investment in clinical fellows and new trial infrastructure at institutions like St. Luke’s has generated innovative, investigator-led projects. Clear, simplified trial designs that target broader patient populations have further contributed to success. However, balancing scientific rigour with recruitment feasibility remains a challenge, particularly for highly specific research questions.
Basic research
Efforts are underway to establish an all-Ireland translational radiation oncology network, uniting preclinical scientific groups across Ireland. This collaboration aims to strengthen laboratory research linked to clinical trials, focusing on blood tests to predict treatment responses and patient follow-ups. By combining fragmented research into a cohesive centre, Ireland could become a standout European hub for translational oncology, ensuring better integration of lab work and clinical practice while driving innovation in radiation research.
