World Cancer Research Day 2026: Celebrating the research changing cancer care

This World Cancer Research Day, we are shining a spotlight on the incredible research taking place across Velindre and celebrating the patients, researchers and staff who are helping to shape the future of cancer care.

Cancer care is evolving rapidly. More people are being diagnosed with cancer each year, more people are living with and beyond cancer, and advances in immunotherapy, targeted therapies and genomics are transforming how cancer is diagnosed, treated and managed.

At Velindre, research is central to our mission. Our ambition is to be a leader in research, development and innovation, ensuring patients have access to the latest advances in cancer treatment while helping to improve outcomes for future generations.

Through investment in pioneering research and clinical trials, we are able to offer patients access to new and innovative treatments that have the potential to improve survival, enhance quality of life and shape the future of cancer care.

We are proud to be a research-active organisation. Today, across Velindre, there are:

• 94 active clinical trials
• Active research across 10 tumour sites
• Currently in the top three recruiters in the UK for 17 trials

Behind these figures are exceptional teams of clinicians, nurses, researchers, pharmacists, data specialists, allied health professionals and support staff whose expertise enables us to deliver world-class research and advance cancer care, not only across Wales but around the world.

On World Cancer Research Day, we want to thank every member of staff involved in research across Velindre for their dedication, expertise and commitment to improving patient outcomes.

Research changes lives

Research changes lives. But it cannot happen without the patients who make it possible.

Every patient who chooses to take part in a clinical trial or research study plays a vital role in advancing our understanding of cancer. By participating in research, patients are doing far more than accessing innovative treatments that may benefit their own care. They are helping researchers discover better ways to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer for future generations.

Their contribution creates a lasting legacy. Every patient who takes part in research helps shape the future of cancer care, bringing hope to others and helping ensure that more people can live longer, healthier lives after a cancer diagnosis.

Today, we also want to celebrate and thank every patient who has supported research at Velindre. Your courage, generosity and willingness to be part of something bigger is helping to transform cancer care for generations to come.

Patient Voices

The impact of research is best reflected through the experiences of the patients and families who have chosen to take part.

"Being diagnosed with terminal cancer is something that is incredibly difficult to come to terms with, and it is a journey that brings many emotions and uncertainties. Being given the opportunity to participate in the early phase clinical trial at Velindre has, however, given me something that is incredibly important to me, hope."

Another participant shared:

"Regarding the trial, the pleasure has always been mine. All made easy because you are all the most supportive, caring, wonderful and kindest bunch of angels that I could have wished for. I sincerely hope my involvement in the trial goes towards helping people in a similar situation as mine, now and in the future."

The family member of a trial participant also reflected on the difference research and compassionate care made to their loved one:

"Doing the trial meant the world to him and meeting you all was the highlight of the final months of his life. I want to thank you all for taking such good care of the both of us. I'll always remember you all."

These stories remind us that research is about more than data and discoveries. It is about people, hope and creating better outcomes for those affected by cancer.

Looking to the Future

In 2021, Velindre launched its 10 year Cancer Research and Development Ambitions, setting out a vision to become a leader in cancer research nationally and internationally.

At the heart of that strategy is a commitment to transform the culture of our organisation, creating an environment where every patient, family member and staff member who wants to engage with research has the opportunity to do so.

As we reach the halfway point of our strategy in 2026, we are proud of the progress made so far. Over the last five years we have:

• Opened 158 new research studies
• Recruited and cared for 1,558 patients taking part in research trials
• Become the top recruiter in the UK for 42 clinical trials

These achievements represent far more than numbers. They reflect thousands of patient interactions, groundbreaking discoveries, and opportunities to improve cancer care both now and in the future.

This is a landmark year for Velindre as we celebrate 70 years of the Velindre Cancer Service and prepare for the opening of the new, state-of-the-art Velindre Cancer Centre in Spring 2027.

Research and innovation will be at the heart of this next chapter.

Central to our future ambitions is the Velindre Collaborative, a gateway for cancer-focused collaboration, implementation and improvement across Wales. The Collaborative will bring together expertise from healthcare, academia, government, industry and the third sector to ensure research, innovation and learning are translated into meaningful and sustainable improvements in cancer care and outcomes.

By strengthening partnerships and accelerating innovation, the Velindre Collaborative will help ensure that patients across Wales have access to the latest advances in cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment.

Celebrating 70 years of Velindre Cancer Services

Velindre provides specialist cancer services to more than 1.5 million people across south east Wales and beyond. For 70 years, we have improved lives through world-class care, innovation, research and compassion. As we celebrate this milestone anniversary, we are reflecting on our proud history while looking ahead to an exciting future, including the move to the new Velindre Cancer Centre. Together, we remain committed to improving outcomes for people affected by cancer across Wales.

Explore our 70th anniversary campaign and share your story.

Did you know Velindre Charity invests over £1 million every year into clinical trials and research? Help us continue to shape the future of cancer care in Wales, donate here.