A drug was made available on the NHS yesterday, hailed as a “major breakthrough” for thousands of breast cancer survivors.
Studies have shown that abemaciclib can reduce the risk of one form of the disease returning by a third in some women.
The drug used in hormone therapy is effective in people with early-stage HR+, HER2 breast cancer and at high risk of recurrence and in people whose cancer has been surgically removed.
A global study led by the Royal Marsden Hospital in London found that abemaciclib given with hormone therapy reduced the risk of cancer recurrence by 32% compared to hormone therapy alone. It can help up to 4,000 women a year.
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women, and although the prognosis for this form of the disease is generally favorable, it may spread and become incurable in 20-30% of patients. 50,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer each year in the UK. (Image file)
Abemaciclib blocks the proteins responsible for stimulating the division and growth of cancer cells. It normally costs £2,950 for 56 tablets, but US manufacturer Eli Lilly has agreed to an undisclosed discount to the NHS. (Image file)
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women, and although the prognosis for this form of the disease is generally favorable, it may spread and become incurable in 20-30% of patients.
50,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer each year in the UK.
Abemaciclib blocks the proteins responsible for stimulating the division and growth of cancer cells.
It normally costs £2,950 for 56 tablets, but US manufacturer Eli Lilly has agreed to an undisclosed discount to the NHS.
Baroness Morgan, Drefelin, managing director of Breast Cancer Now, said: “The fear that breast cancer will return or spread to other parts of their body and become incurable can cause great anxiety in many women and their loved ones.
“It’s now important for doctors to discuss this new treatment, its risks and benefits, with appropriate patients.”
Source: Daily Mail
I am Anne Johnson and I work as an author at the Fashion Vibes. My main area of expertise is beauty related news, but I also have experience in covering other types of stories like entertainment, lifestyle, and health topics. With my years of experience in writing for various publications, I have built strong relationships with many industry insiders. My passion for journalism has enabled me to stay on top of the latest trends and changes in the world of beauty.
