Tameside Hospital Cancer Team Honored for Blood Cancer Care as Patients Face Delayed Diagnosis
Tameside, UK – The Christie Cancer Center team at Tameside Hospital has received national recognition for its dedication to patients living with incurable blood cancer, specifically myeloma. The team was presented with the Myeloma UK clinical Service Excellence Programme Award on October 7th,acknowledging their commitment to providing treatment closer to home and outstanding patient care.
Myeloma, a challenging cancer affecting approximately 3,000 people annually in the UK, frequently enough presents difficulties in diagnosis and ongoing management. Patients can experience a range of debilitating symptoms, and the disease frequently returns despite treatment. The Christie at Tameside’s award highlights their success in navigating these complexities and supporting patients through their cancer journey.
Rhys owens, Senior Clinical Practice Officer at Myeloma UK, praised the team’s efforts. “Myeloma is a challenging cancer which keeps coming back and can be challenging to cope with both physically and mentally, so patients really need a caring team in their corner,” he said. “It’s very clear that staff at the Christie Cancer Centre go the extra mile every day to help patients navigate treatment and the reality of living with an incurable cancer.”
The award also recognizes the team’s collaboration with the local Rapid Diagnostic Centre, ensuring patients receive timely tests, early diagnoses, and prompt treatment initiation. Staff provide comprehensive support, offering guidance, advice, and connections to additional resources for both patients and their families.
Myeloma occurs when abnormal plasma cells accumulate in the bone marrow, interfering with the production of healthy blood cells. Symptoms can include bone pain, fatigue, frequent infections, and, in some cases, a noticeable decrease in height due to vertebral compression fractures – a symptom patients have reported experiencing a reduction of up to two inches before diagnosis. Early detection and access to specialized care, as provided by The Christie at Tameside, are crucial for improving patient outcomes and quality of life.
