Commenting on NICE's final decision to recommend breakthrough
prostate cancer drug abiraterone for routine use on the NHS in
England & Wales, Owen Sharp, Chief Executive of Prostate Cancer
UK (formerly The Prostate Cancer Charity), said:
"We are delighted that NICE's decision to approve abiraterone
for routine use on the NHS in England and Wales has been confirmed
today, and that final guidance has now been published. We urge
local health authorities in England and Wales to waste no time in
putting in place the necessary arrangements to ensure men with
advanced prostate cancer can access this drug without delay.
"With Northern Ireland likely to follow suit shortly, it must be
remembered that Scotland looks set to be the only part of the UK
where this breakthrough treatment remains out of men's reach. It is
crucial that the SMC reviews its position and makes the right
decision for men north of the border as soon as possible. All men
with advanced prostate cancer need access to this drug and the
precious extra time with loved ones and improved quality of life it
can bring, regardless of their location in the UK."
[ENDS]