NI scientist wins grant for oesophageal cancer research

A leading Northern Ireland scientist has received a £855,000 grant to investigate new ways to prevent oesophageal cancer.

Dr Helen Coleman, who is based at Queen’s University Belfast, was presented with the prestigious Cancer Research UK Career Establishment Award.

Over the next six years, she will investigate the impact of new endoscopic methods that have been introduced to monitor and treat Barrett's oesophagus.

Dr Coleman, who is from Portaferry in Co Down, says she was inspired to work in cancer research after several family members were diagnosed.

"Both my parents received cancer diagnoses but thankfully survived,” she explained.

“I also know about the devastating impact of oesophageal cancer after three members of my husband's family were diagnosed with the disease.

"One uncle is a survivor, after he was diagnosed early enough to be treated with surgery - but the family sadly lost his other uncle and our sister-in-law's father to the disease, both within two years of their diagnosis."

Monday 4 February is World Cancer Day.

Over 200 people are diagnosed with oesophageal cancer in Northern Ireland every year and less than one in five will survive for at least five years after diagnosis.

Barrett's oesophagus, a condition where some of the cells lining the food pipe have started to change, is much more common - with around 900 people diagnosed here each year.

In a small number of people these cells may develop into oesophageal cancer over time.

"Oesophageal cancer is difficult to treat because around three quarters of cases are diagnosed at a late stage,” continued Dr Coleman.

"It's fantastic to be selected for this career defining award and I am excited about working to find new ways to help prevent this cancer and new treatments to help patients survive for longer.

"Belfast is the leading centre in this kind of large population study and I believe that our work can really make a difference to patients' lives."