After formal training in mainstream cancer care at the Royal Marsden, Royal Free and Middlesex Hospitals London, Professor Thomas now leads cancer treatment services at the Primrose Oncology & Research Unit, Bedford and leads the prostate brachytherapy program at Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge University NHS Trust. He is also a professor of medical information at Cranfield University, deputy editor of the British Journal of Cancer Management and editor of the medical journal 'Focus on cancer medicine'. Despite a long history of basic scientific and laboratory research his academic interests have now turned to methods which improve patient's understanding of their disease and treatment options. This research has produced a number of practical information tools ranging from bespoke patient booklets, leaflets and 6 video films.
The methodology for this research is also now being taught to colleagues and students internationally in formal teaching programs, medical conferences and invited lectures. More recently research has focused on how lifestyle can improve quality of life and disease outcome following a diagnosis of cancer. As well as a number of practical lifestyle strategies for patients, his team have designed and are conducting two of the UK's largest quality of life and lifestyle studies in patients with breast and prostate cancer.
Experience of writing stems from the extensive list of publications in international peer reviewed medical journals, the government backed national NHS cancer plan, the DoH review of complementary medicine and the NICE committee on supportive medicine. These credentials and experiences have been recognized by a number of high profile medical awards including the UK Doctor of the Year 2000/1, NHS patient information research prize 2002, UK Oncologist of the Year 2006.
Taken from www.cancernet.co.uk