ALK+ International award research grants to further investigation into all ALK+ cancers. 

If you would like a grant information pack please Contact us and we will be happy to assist you.

Why is research needed?

It is estimated that there are more than 10,000 ALK+ lung cancer patients living in the UK. The overall ALK+ figure is likely to be higher, given that ALK+ mutations drive other cancers. 

Since the discovery of ALK+ cancer in 2007, there have been incredible advances in the range of life saving treatments. As with other cancers linked with genetic mutations, ALK+ cancer is treated with targeted therapies - a class of drugs that precisely target and inhibit cancer cell growth with considerably fewer side effects than traditional treatments. While this makes ALK+ cancer treatable, it is still incurable. ALK+ patients will develop resistance to their medication or experience further mutations, rendering their treatment ineffective. Research is needed into further treatments, to provide either more targeted therapies or diversify treatment options.

Additionally, about 90% of ALK+ cancers are diagnosed when the cancer has spread to other parts of the body. This is known as metastatic cancer, and would be categorised as stage IV. Without any cancer treatment, half of the patients with metastatic ALK+ cancer would not live 12 months. Research and medical breakthroughs have increased survival dramatically in the last decade, and while life expectancy figures are increasing worldwide, they can vary by country. This is due to disparities in access to medications and consolidative therapy, such as radiotherapy, surgery or ablation. 

These are just some of the reasons why we believe research is a top priority, and are passionate about making a difference.

Together We Can.