Parliamentary Reception

Smarter. Faster. Earlier: UEA showcases world-leading prostate cancer research at Westminster.

In June, UEA took its pioneering prostate cancer research to Parliament, hosting a reception at the House of Commons to raise awareness of two major diagnostic advances developed at the University.

The event, hosted by Norwich North MP Alice Macdonald and generously sponsored by the Alan Boswell Group, brought together MPs, peers, senior NHS officials, charities, and research partners to learn about the life-saving potential of UEA’s work.

Led by Professor Colin Cooper from UEA’s Norwich Medical School, the research team has spent more than a decade developing smarter tools to detect prostate cancer earlier and more accurately — with the potential to reduce unnecessary treatment, ease NHS pressures, and save thousands of lives each year.

“We now have successful tests to enable the UK to lead the world in improving prostate cancer diagnosis,” said Prof Cooper. “The UEA tests offer earlier, more accurate identification of life-threatening disease, and could ease financial pressures on the NHS.”

The reception highlighted two key innovations: the Prostate Urine Risk (PUR) Test, which uses a simple pre-biopsy urine sample to predict cancer severity and guide treatment decisions, and the Tiger Test, a post-biopsy genetic analysis that identifies particularly aggressive forms of the disease. Both tests are currently on track for clinical accreditation, with the PUR test expected to be in regular NHS use by 2027. Our new brochure, launched at the House of Commons Reception, highlights UEA’s innovations in prostate cancer diagnosis – download it here.

“Men cannot wait this long – we do not need more evolution, we need a revolution in prostate cancer diagnosis,” said UEA Chancellor Dame Jenny Abramsky GBE (EAS65), calling for urgent investment to accelerate the research from lab bench to bedside.

The evening was generously sponsored by the Alan Boswell Group, a strong supporter of this important work through the Alan Boswell Fellowship, held by Dr Rachel Hurst — a key member of the research team.

Karin Smyth MP (SOC84), now Minister of State for Health, reflected on her time at the university and praised UEA’s “genuinely amazing” work to drive innovation and regional growth, aligning strongly with current Government health priorities.

“This event was crucial to showcase the impact and potential of Prof Cooper’s work,” said David Ellis, Director of Development. “Support from the philanthropic community has been essential — in fact a generous supporter had the idea for the event - and the next stage will require an even greater coalition of donors, policymakers and health leaders to deliver change at scale.”

Learn more about this vital research and how to support on our website.