On World Cancer Day, BSNA welcomes the new National Cancer Plan's commitment to provide patients with rapid access to the best possibel treatment.

BSNA’s Independent Aseptic Compounders (IAC) have welcomed the publication today of the new National Cancer Plan for England, including the recognition that aseptic medicine production is a key part of meeting future demand for cancer treatment. 

With recent projections that more than six million new cancer cases are expected by 2040, the need for aseptic medicines continues to grow. 

Aseptic manufacturing, both within NHS pharmacy units and in the independent sector, delivers intravenous medications including systemic anti-cancer therapy (SACT), antibiotics, analgesics, and parenteral nutrition. It is estimated that the IAC supply up to 50% of all aseptic products in the UK. 

The production of SACT, which includes chemotherapy and immunotherapy, is particularly fast growing with the IAC reporting a 13% increase in production in 24/25 vs 23/24 and a 19% increase for 23/24 vs 22/23. 

The new cancer plan also recognises the need for specialist staff in aseptic manufacturing and the IAC are committed to recruit, train and retain skilled staff, having seen a 358% increase in full time equivalent staff who are directly involved in compounding and associated work since 2022. 

To achieve the aims of the new cancer plan and ensure people have rapid access to the aseptic medicines they need, as demand grows, significant investment is must be a priority. The IAC continue to demonstrate their commitment to working in collaboration with the NHS to ensure a resilient aseptic sector able to meet patient needs.