James’ research hits the target

Footballer helps with cancer treatment

NICOLA FINDLAY

An East Kilbride research scientist and amateur footballer has played his part in improving treatment options for those battling brain cancers.

James Cameron, 26, who plays for EKYM, worked on a collaborative research project while studying for his PHD at Strathclyde University.

The findings were published in a leading scientific journal and James is now forging ahead in his career with the science firm, Clinspec Diagnostics, based in Glasgow.

They are developing a blood test for cancer and other diseases.

In simple terms this test uses infrared light to examine a patient’s blood sample to detect the signals of cancer, with a technique called infrared spectroscopy.

James, who lives in Stewartfield , told the News: “The study I was part of focuses on the early detection and stratification of brain tumours through spectroscopic analysis.

“Brain cancer reduces a patient’s average life expectancy by 20 years, the highest reduction of all cancers.

“Symptoms are generally nonspecific to brain tumours, so patients often visit their GP multiple times before going for a brain scan.

“The main aim is to triage these patients quicker and fast-track those most in need of urgent brain imaging.

“Additionally, differentiating tumour type can be difficult through imaging alone, therefore non-invasive tests that can support the stratification of brain tumours would enhance early personalisation of treatment and reduce the delay and risks associated with surgery for many patients. “

The scientific research saw James work alongside a host of scientists and clinicians from across the UK and other universities including Liverpool and Edinburgh.

And he now hopes that the work will make a real difference to patients up and down the country.

He went on: “It was great to get this study published in the high-impact scientific journal ‘Cancers’ and we are now looking to take this research to the next level.

“We are currently involved in a prospective clinical study at the Western General Hospital in Edinburgh, which is making good progress.

“This research wouldn’t have been possible without the fantastic support from University of Strathclyde, Scottish Enterprise, and our clinical collaborators in the NHS.”

But the modest scientists was also taken aback by the praise heaped on him by fellow players at EKYM

“Everyone thought it was a really big deal, especially when my research was published in the journal,” he added

“I don’t see it myself as it’s my job and what I studied but my hope, and everyone else’s who was involved, is to help fight this disease and improve the outcomes for patients fighting it.”