This Childhood Cancer Awareness Month we are spotlighting the research and initiatives funded by Brain Tumour Research that are changing outcomes for children diagnosed with a brain tumour.
Today we are taking a closer look at the paediatric BRAINatomy study which is being supported by PRIME, the patient and public involvement programme run by brainstrust, funded by Brain Tumour Research.
What is BRAINatomy?
BRAINatomy is a clinical study that aims to enhance brain tumour treatments for children by pinpointing specific brain regions to avoid during radiotherapy treatment.
Precision radiotherapy is currently an essential part of the treatment of many paediatric brain tumours. However, even with improvements in the targeting of the radiation, these treatments can still cause lifelong side effects on cognition and hormone production.
Supported by Stand Up to Cancer and Cancer Research UK, BRAINatomy is studying the path that radiation travels when treating paediatric brain tumours to develop an atlas of brain regions to be avoided during radiotherapy.
How is PRIME supporting BRAINatomy paediatric research?
PRIME worked with the BRAINatomy team to support the study goals and provide a patient-focused perspective throughout the trial design. They ensured that patient experience, insight and perspective were reflected in all stages of the trial.
Facilitated by PRIME, two patient representatives shared their experience of being diagnosed with a brain tumour at a young age with the research team. This helped the research team to consider how best to approach patients to take part in the trial and to prioritise patients’ needs during such a difficult time in their lives.
How will it help patients?
As the BRAINatomy project progresses, it holds the promise of transforming the landscape of paediatric brain tumour treatments.
The researchers’ ultimate goal is to identify brain regions sensitive to radiotherapy, enabling the development of tailored treatments that mitigate long-term cognitive and endocrine issues. The potential creation of a prediction model could revolutionise decision-making for clinicians, offering a tool to optimise survival while minimising adverse effects.
Adam Thomson, Patient Involvement Officer at brainstrust, said: “The dedication of the research team, coupled with the support from charities and funding entities, underscores the importance of concerted efforts in advancing our understanding of paediatric brain cancer and improving treatment outcomes.
As the project unfolds, it holds the promise of shaping the future of paediatric oncology, offering hope to countless children and their families worldwide.”
To read a previous article about the project, click here.
Get involved with research…
If you would like to use your experience and insight to support clinical research, consider signing up to be a PRIME advocate for brainstrust. Brainstrust is proudly in partnership with Brain Tumour Research to provide PRIME, our patient and public involvement and engagement service.
Published 25th September 2024