What is zanidatamab and why was it rejected by NICE?

Zanidatamab is a powerful cancer drug used for advanced bile-duct cancer. NICE rejected its use on the NHS, stating there was insufficient evidence to suggest it offers good value for money.

What is cholangiocarcinoma, and how common is it in the UK?

Cholangiocarcinoma, also known as bile-duct cancer, is a serious condition affecting around 3,000 people a year in the UK. Its severity depends on its location and whether it has spread to other parts of the body.

What are the key concerns regarding NICE's rejection of zanidatamab?

Concerns include the drug's potential to significantly improve life expectancy and quality of life for patients, and the fear that the rejection could worsen existing inequalities in cancer care.

Home / Health / Dad's Cancer Drug Hope Denied by NHS

Dad's Cancer Drug Hope Denied by NHS

6 Mar

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Summary

New dad Huw Jones died from bile-duct cancer after his treatment was rejected.
His wife campaigns for zanidatamab, which he felt improved his condition.
NICE rejected the drug due to insufficient evidence of value for money.

A grieving family is campaigning for a life-saving cancer drug after it was rejected for NHS use. Huw Jones, a 33-year-old father from North Wales, passed away in February 2026 following a battle with stage four cholangiocarcinoma. He had been on a trial for zanidatamab, a powerful treatment for advanced bile-duct cancer, and reported that his tumors shrunk and pain reduced.

Despite Mr. Jones's positive experience and his plea for a review, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) issued guidance against the drug's NHS use earlier this year. NICE stated there was not enough evidence to prove it offers good value for money. This decision has sparked a campaign led by his wife, Cadi Rowlands, who is joined by other patients benefiting from the drug.