The Prostate Cancer Charity has welcomed today's announcement by
the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE)
that they are to recommend abiraterone - the breakthrough treatment
for advanced prostate cancer - on the NHS in England and Wales, but
has vowed to continue campaigning until the drug is available on
the NHS for all men who need it throughout the UK.
Owen Sharp, Chief Executive of The Prostate Cancer Charity
commented: "This announcement represents a resounding triumph for
each of the thousands of men with advanced prostate cancer in
England and Wales who know just how much the prospect of precious
extra time with their loved ones really means. We are delighted
that NICE has overturned its earlier decision after reviewing the
evidence. We are also pleased that the manufacturer responded to
our call to deliver a further reduction in price.
"Although today marks a very welcome advancement, it has to be
remembered that abiraterone remains out of reach to men in Scotland
on the NHS. We need to see every man who needs this drug receive it
on the NHS, regardless of where they live in the UK.
"We picked up the baton for these men in England and Wales - for
whom other treatment options have run out - and led this campaign
with a strong conviction that NICE's decision had to be changed.
Abiraterone is a genuine breakthrough drug and we are delighted to
see our argument that it is an end of life drug hit home. We are
grateful to the politicians, media, partners, and men, who joined
us in championing the rights of men with this disease, which has
suffered a legacy of neglect for decades. We will continue to
appeal to ensure this decision is mirrored in Scotland. All men
with advanced disease deserve the chance to enjoy treasured moments
with their families, with improved quality of life."