Juned Islam’s research into recurrence and survival outcomes in stage IA p53-abnormal endometrial (womb) cancer was presented at the 2026 Annual Global Meeting of the International Gynecologic Cancer Society in Montreal, Canada, from 1–3 October 2026, with the support of a Peaches bursary.
This research reviewed outcomes for 115 patients with Stage IA p53-abnormal endometrial cancer treated at UCLH between 2014 and 2025. Tumours carrying this molecular marker, called p53 abnormality, are associated with more aggressive behaviour and poorer outcomes. When diagnosed at an early stage (Stage IA), some of these tumours have grown into the muscle wall (myometrium) of the womb, while others have not. Current guidelines are unclear about whether these two groups should be managed differently following surgery, and in particular whether patients without muscle wall invasion require additional treatment such as chemotherapy or radiotherapy.
Juned, an Internal Medical Trainee (IMT) Doctor, conducted this research primarily at University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, and is now employed by Bart’s Health NHS Trust.
I am extremely grateful to Peaches Womb Cancer Trust for supporting my attendance at the 2026 Annual Global Meeting of the International Gynaecologic Cancer Society in Montreal. The bursary enabled me to present our research to an international audience of clinicians and researchers, engage with experts in gynaecological oncology, and learn about the latest developments in cancer management.
Our findings suggest that patients remain at meaningful risk of recurrence even in the absence of myometrial invasion, highlighting an important evidence gap with potential implications for treatment decisions and patient outcomes.
As an Internal Medicine Trainee with a strong interest in oncology and academic research, this experience has supported my professional development by strengthening my confidence in presenting research, critically discussing findings, and building collaborative networks. It will also be valuable for my future oncology specialty training applications, demonstrating my commitment to research, academic development, and improving cancer outcomes.
Looking ahead, I hope this work will contribute to a larger, multicentre study to establish more robust evidence on recurrence risk and optimal adjuvant treatment in Stage IA p53-abnormal endometrial cancer. Ultimately, I hope our findings will inform future clinical guidelines, support more evidence-based and individualised treatment decisions, and improve outcomes for women affected by endometrial cancer.
I am sincerely thankful to Peaches Womb Cancer Trust for investing in my development and research, and for helping make these opportunities for learning, collaboration, and future progress possible.
Bursary Applications
We welcome bursary applications for up to £500 at any time from medical students, trainees (pre-CCT) and scientists (fewer than three years post PhD) who have been accepted to present their work at national and international conferences. Preference will be given to applicants whose research pertains to prevention, screening, early detection or treatment of endometrial cancer.
To apply, please send an abstract or short lay summary of your research (max 300 words) and a copy of your CV to [email protected].
