LONDON — The NHS has approved two innovative targeted cancer medicines for children and adults living with rare blood cancers, marking a significant advance in specialist cancer care across England.

The newly approved treatments are expected to benefit around 200 patients each year, providing new options for people whose cancers have proved difficult to treat with existing therapies. NHS England said the medicines will offer faster access to precision treatments that target specific genetic changes driving the disease.

Healthcare leaders say the decision represents another major step forward in personalised medicine, allowing clinicians to match patients with therapies designed specifically for their condition. The approvals are expected to improve outcomes while expanding access to cutting-edge cancer care through the NHS.

Cancer specialists welcomed the announcement, noting that advances in genomic testing and targeted therapies are transforming treatment for patients with rare cancers. They say continued investment in innovative medicines will strengthen the UK's position as a global leader in cancer research and healthcare innovation.

The new treatments are expected to become available through specialist NHS centres in England, providing fresh hope for patients and families affected by rare blood cancers while supporting the NHS's broader strategy to improve survival and patient outcomes.