Leading UK Medtech provider brings pioneering solution to the

region to combat chemotherapy-induced hair loss

A leading UK Medtech provider, dedicated to empowering cancer patients in the GCC through its innovative hair loss prevention solution.

Paxman is an innovative UK company that has created a solution specifically aimed at combatting chemotherapy-induced hair loss in patients suffering from certain types of cancer.

Using scalp cooling technology, Paxman’s ‘cold cap’ alleviates damage to the hair follicles by reducing the temperature of the scalp by just a few degrees immediately before, during and after the administration of chemotherapy drugs. This in turn reduces the blood flow to the hair root bulb minimising, and in many cases, preventing hair loss. The cap is made from lightweight, silicone tubing, which feels soft and flexible, moulding to the patient’s head and providing a comfortable fit during treatment.

The pioneering technology provides enormous emotional, as well as physical, benefits to patients, enabling them to regain a greater degree of control in their battle with the disease whilst encouraging a more positive attitude towards treatment.

Cancer remains one of the key healthcare challenges facing nations of the GCC and Paxman is dedicated to extending its partnerships in the region to support as many cancer patients as possible.

According to a 2018 report by the World Health Organisation (WHO), the number of cancer cases in the Middle East is expected to double by 2030. In the UAE alone, there are 4,500 new incidents of cancer each year, with breast, colorectal and lung cancers acquiring the top spots.

The WHO reveals that one in five men, and one in six women, worldwide will develop cancer. The disease is one that will be encountered by almost the entire population during their lifetime, whether that’s through a personal struggle with the disease or through that of a friend of relative. The Paxman family understand first-hand the trauma associated with chemotherapy induced hair loss. In 1994, mum-of-three Sue Paxman was diagnosed with breast cancer. Since then, the Paxman family have been on a personal journey to ensure that Sue’s legacy lives by helping patients around the world to minimise hair loss whilst making positive contributions to their lives.

Paxman Scalp Cooling is currently used in more than 35 countries around the globe including in the United Arab Emirates and Kuwait. And, Paxman is dedicated to extending its support to even more healthcare providers in the GCC to reach those who could benefit most from its pioneering solution. The scalp cooling cap is currently available to patients being treated at The American Hospital and Mediclinic City Hospital in Dubai with plans to extend its partnership to include more hospitals in the UAE this year. Paxman has also appointed new distribution partners in Saudi Arabia and will begin selling scalp cooling systems to hospitals in the Kingdom in 2020. Paxman is also once again participating at Arab Health this year to continue to raise awareness about its pioneering technology and how it can empower cancer patients.

Speaking about Paxman’s plans for further expansion across the GCC, Richard Paxman, CEO at Paxman, said: “We are delighted to be able to offer scalp cooling to Middle Eastern patients and are keen to find new partners from across the region. Scalp cooling can result in a high level of retention or in some cases completely preserve the hair for patients undergoing chemotherapy – a chance for them to retain their sense of self while encouraging a positive attitude towards treatment.

“As a company we want to empower patients, professionals and other people all over the world – especially in places where hair loss remains a stigma. We want to help improve peoples’ self-confidence in facing what can be one of the most distressing side effects of chemotherapy – and give them a choice.”

Thousands of people around the world have already benefitted from Paxman’s innovative scalp cooling solution.

Tracey Savage is just one patient whose life has been positively impacted by the use of Paxman Scalp Cooling. Tracey, from the UK, asked her oncologist about the cold cap after discovering she had ovarian cancer in 2017. Tracey’s oncologist was 100% supportive of her decision to try Paxman’s pioneering solution. Tracey said: “I can honestly say my experience with the cap has been amazing. I have helped, advised and sometimes pushed other ladies into using it too. I feel so passionate about getting awareness out there about scalp cooling as I am proof that it can work. I was able to still look like me all the way through this horrendous journey and I could keep my illness private. I didn't want to be seen as a cancer victim, especially in front of my children.”

Paxman Scalp Cooling is testament to the UK’s expertise in the development of pioneering medical technology that has the potential to help millions around the world.

The UK medical technology sector is vibrant and growing, with 121,900 people employed in 3,583 businesses and a turnover of £22.2 billion. The UK is also home to more than 5,000 life sciences companies which draw on a deep talent pool of over 230,000 employees – creating a world-class science base. Solving some of the most pressing global healthcare challenges is a key priority for the British Government and UK technology companies. The UK is deeply committed to working closely with its partners in the GCC to improve the health and wellbeing of its citizens and solve shared healthcare challenges together – using the most innovative technology solutions. for long-term conditions, in addition to clinical apps that can assist in the early detection of non-communicable diseases.