London: The NHS has begun rolling out a new one-minute cancer jab that could benefit tens of thousands of patients across England by significantly reducing treatment time.
The injectable version of Pembrolizumab, also known as Keytruda, is set to replace lengthy intravenous drips for many patients. Around 14,000 people start this treatment annually, and most are expected to transition to the quicker injection.
Previously, patients had to spend extended periods receiving the drug through a drip. With the new method, treatment time can be reduced by up to 90 per cent, allowing patients to receive care more quickly and conveniently.
The NHS cancer jab works by helping the body’s immune system recognise and attack cancer cells. It targets a protein known as PD-1, which normally limits immune responses, thereby enabling the immune system to fight cancer more effectively.
The treatment is used for multiple types of cancer, including lung, breast, cervical, and head and neck cancers. It can be administered every three or six weeks, depending on the patient’s condition.
Healthcare officials say the innovation will also help free up hospital capacity by reducing preparation and administration time. The ready-to-use injection is expected to cut preparation time for medical staff by nearly half, improving efficiency within NHS facilities.
Patients have already begun receiving the new treatment. One of the early recipients reported a smoother and quicker experience compared to traditional methods.
The rollout of the NHS cancer jab marks a significant step forward in cancer care, combining advanced immunotherapy with improved delivery methods to enhance both patient outcomes and healthcare efficiency.
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