Funding of cancer research uneven

Funding of cancer research uneven

At least $100 million was committed to cancer research in New Zealand in 2003-2005. Most of this, nearly 80 percent, was invested in research relating to the diagnosis and treatment of cancer, the first comprehensive stocktake of cancer control research in New Zealand shows.

The stocktake, carried out by the Cancer Control Council of New Zealand, shows research investment is spread unevenly across the different areas of cancer control and the goals of the New Zealand Cancer Control Strategy.

The findings of the stocktake are contained in the report, Developing a Strategic Plan for Cancer Control Research in New Zealand.

“It can be difficult determining what is, and what is not, cancer control research. However, the stark differences in research funding allocation across the cancer control spectrum are real,” Council spokesman Professor John Gavin said.

While research relating to the diagnosis and treatment of cancer accounted for nearly 80 percent of the investment, research into areas such as improving the quality of life for people with cancer and improving the delivery of cancer services accounted for just 1 per cent each.

Research relating to cancer prevention and research relating to the early detection of cancer each accounted for about 10 percent.

“For the first time we have a snapshot of who is funding cancer control research, how much is funded and how this funding is distributed across the spectrum of cancer control. What we now need to establish is whether this is the appropriate distribution and whether the overall investment in cancer research is sufficient,” Professor Gavin said.

The Cancer Control Council has set up a research working group to lead the development of a strategic plan for cancer control research. The five-year rolling plan will be developed in partnership with the research community and will identify both the appropriate distribution of research investment and encourage researchers and research funding agencies to engage in research in priority areas.

Both the Cancer Control Strategy and Action Plan 2005-2010 highlight the need for New Zealand to take a strategic approach to cancer control research.

“Research has a critical role to play in improving the effectiveness and efficiency of cancer control – from primary prevention right through to palliative care,” Professor Gavin said.

The report, Developing a Strategic Plan for Cancer Control Research in New Zealand, is available from the Council's website: www.cancercontrolcouncil.health.govt.nz.

ENDS

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