Retired dentist advocating lifesaving lessons for future dentists

A retired dentist is using his lived experience of cancer to help educate dental students and illustrate the vital role dentists play in spotting early signs of the disease.

Four years ago, Bryan Webber became the first patient in a clinical trial for head and neck cancer at Velindre Cancer Centre, supported by Health and Care Research Wales. The trial aided Bryan’s recovery and his involvement has also demonstrated the critical role of research in advancing medical treatments.

Bryan spent 50 years in the NHS, with the last 30 in a training role, passionately advocating for early cancer detection by dentists. His personal experience began when he noticed an inflamed tonsil in December 2019.

Diagnosed with HPV 16 carcinoma of the tonsil, he joined the PET-based Adaptive Radiotherapy Clinical Trial (PEARL), which uses PET-CT scans to enhance radiotherapy precision and minimise side effects.

During his treatment, Bryan shared his journey on Facebook, capturing the interest of his dental colleagues and led to numerous invitations to speak to dental students and professionals across Wales and beyond.

Bryan recalled: “When I started treatment for my cancer, I decided to post some pictures on Facebook to show my friends what was happening to me. I posted pictures of my mouth and palate, the ulcers that developed, my MRI and PET scans, everything! 

Bryan believes in the importance of patients considering taking part in a clinical trial. He said: “Without them, we wouldn’t have new drugs, new treatments.

“By taking part in the PEARL trial, I have played my part in getting better treatment for people with head and neck cancer.”

Despite ongoing side effects from his cancer, such as difficulty swallowing and voice changes, Bryan remains committed to his mission.

Bryan now serves as a patient representative on Velindre’s Senior Leadership Group and Research Development and Innovation sub-committee, ensuring patient perspectives influence ongoing research.

Bryan's story was featured on ITV Wales at Six.

Find out more about the PEARL trial.

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