Prostate Cancer UK (formerly The Prostate
Cancer Charity) has welcomed news that The Department of Health,
Social Services and Public Safety has recommend abiraterone - the
breakthrough treatment for men with incurable prostate cancer - for
use on the NHS in Northern Ireland.
Owen Sharp, Chief Executive of Prostate Cancer UK, said: "Prostate
Cancer UK has been campaigning to ensure all men who need this
groundbreaking drug are able to access it on the NHS regardless of
where they live in the UK. We are therefore delighted that
abiraterone has been approved for routine use on the NHS in
Northern Ireland, following a similar outcome in England &
Wales. This is a long overdue piece of good news for all the men
with incurable prostate cancer in Northern Ireland.
"Abiraterone can significantly reduce pain
and other symptoms as well as extend life by an average of 4
months. We therefore urge local health boards in Northern Ireland
to waste no time in putting in place the necessary arrangements to
ensure that men who need the drug can access it without delay.
"Delighted though we are with this
decision, our campaign will continue until men in Scotland are able
to access abiraterone via the NHS too."