Brexit rhetoric is deterring top cancer doctors and scientists from moving to or staying in the UK, with high visa costs exacerbating the issue.
The world’s top cancer doctors, scientists, and researchers are being deterred from moving to or staying in the UK by politicians’ rhetoric on immigration. A leaked report reveals that high visa costs, combined with negative messaging on immigration, are deterring professionals from coming to work or remaining in the country.
Cancer doctors, also known as oncologists, are medical professionals who specialize in diagnosing and treating cancer.
They often work with other healthcare experts to develop treatment plans tailored to each patient's needs.
According to the American Society of Clinical Oncology, there are over 100,000 active oncologists worldwide.
In the United States alone, cancer doctors treat an estimated 1.8 million new cancer cases annually.
Their role involves not only providing medical care but also supporting patients and their families throughout the treatment process.
The Impact of Immigration Rhetoric
According to analysis being studied by the Cabinet Office and the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, politicians’ messaging around immigration is having a direct impact on the UK’s ability to attract and retain talent. One expert stated, ‘Nobody wants to come [and] work somewhere they’re not welcome.’ This sentiment is echoed in the Conservative party’s promise to introduce a legal cap on migration levels if re-elected prime minister.
The Cost of Clinical Trials
The report highlights that high visa costs are causing a fall in top job applicants from around the world. Cancer patients are missing out on expertise, and clinical trials are being delayed due to the lack of global talent. The Francis Crick Institute, one of the world’s leading biomedical research centres, is now spending over £500,000 a year on visas for cancer scientists.
Cancer patients require a multidisciplinary approach to care, involving medical professionals, family members, and caregivers.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide, accounting for 9.6 million deaths in 2018.
In addition to medical treatment, emotional support and palliative care are crucial for improving quality of life.
Studies have shown that patients who receive adequate support experience reduced anxiety and depression levels, as well as improved treatment adherence.
A Review of Immigration Costs
The review recommends that ministers reduce ‘overall and upfront immigration costs’ for cancer professionals and their families. It also suggests initiating a review of the impact of the immigration system on the recruitment of international talent. Dr Ian Walker, an executive director of Cancer Research UK, emphasized the importance of working with global talent, stating, ‘Our future health and wellbeing depends on working together internationally.’
The Human Cost
The human cost of clinical trial delays cannot be overstated. Children whose cancer has returned or treatment has stopped working are being denied access to life-saving drugs. The report warns that the UK’s upfront immigration costs now vastly exceed those of other leading research nations, making it difficult for the country to compete.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 400,000 children under the age of 15 are diagnosed with cancer every year.
Leukemia is the most common type of childhood cancer, accounting for about 30% of cases.
Other types include brain tumors, lymphoma, and neuroblastoma.
Cancer in children can be caused by genetic mutations, exposure to radiation or chemicals, or viral infections.
Early detection and treatment are crucial for improving survival rates, which have increased significantly over the past few decades.
“The increasing immigration costs are taking money away from research and researchers can’t afford them, which is limiting access to global talent,” the report says. It is imperative that policymakers address this issue and make it easier for cancer experts to work in the UK.
