What happened: The NHS has introduced an injectable form of pembrolizumab, a treatment for several cancer types that can be given in under two minutes. It works by enabling the immune system to attack cancer cells more effectively.
Why it matters:
- Thousands of cancer patients in England will have access to a faster, potentially more effective treatment.
- The treatment targets multiple cancer types, potentially improving outcomes for a broad group of patients.
MNN Take: Pembrolizumab blocks a protein that suppresses immune responses, helping the body’s defences recognise and fight cancer. Its quick administration may also improve patient convenience and treatment efficiency.
Sources: Guardian UK