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Alopecia and Cancer

Asked by Lee AndersonReform UKDepartment of Health and Social CareTabled Answered 16 March 2026UIN 116801

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what recent discussions his Department has had with cancer charities on supporting people with hair loss accessing hair systems.

Answered by Mrs Sharon Hodgson

The Department and the National Health Service in England acknowledge that some cancer patients may face difficulties with hair loss during treatment.

Decisions about the funding and provision of health services are the responsibility of local integrated care boards. NHS Supply Chain has engaged extensively on a national level to thoroughly assess the provision and supply of wigs and related accessories. Collaboration between NHS Supply Chain with industry groups is ongoing to facilitate access to the wigs framework, thereby offering NHS providers a broader selection of products. A key priority throughout this process has been ensuring suitability for individual wearers.

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