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Our research into rare cancers

Our research is saving lives

Together, rare cancers make up more than 20% of all cancer cases. We’ve contributed to several advances for people with rare cancers. We ran some of the first trials for people with uveal melanoma and neuroendocrine tumours, and showed that the drug Glivec was effective for some advanced gastro-intestinal stromal tumours (GIST). And we set up and continue to support the International Rare Cancers Initiative, which is developing clinical trials worldwide to find new treatments for rare cancers.

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Current research

From studying the biology of rare cancer cells in the lab to leading clinical trials testing cutting-edge treatments, our researchers are working hard to ensure more people survive rare cancers.

Find out more about our current research

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Past research

Thanks to research, we've helped change the outlook for people with rare cancers.

Find out more about past research

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Patients' stories

Meet people like Oliver who have experienced first-hand how our research is making a difference. The life-saving research we do wouldn’t be possible without your support.

Read stories from people with rare cancers

Our strategy

Over the last 40 years, cancer survival in the UK has doubled. In the 1970s just 1 in 4 people survived their disease for 10 years or more. Today 2 in 4 survive.

We want to accelerate progress and see 3 in 4 patients surviving the disease by 2034.

Read more about our strategy

Cancer news

Cancer News

Browse the latest news, analysis and opinion from Cancer Research UK.

Further information

Want to find more information about our research or rare cancers?

Find out more about clinical trials

More about the symptoms and treatments for rare cancers