What is abiraterone and who is it for on the NHS?

Abiraterone is a hormone therapy for men with high-risk prostate cancer, now available on the NHS even before the cancer spreads.

How effective is abiraterone for prostate cancer patients?

Clinical trials show abiraterone significantly increases survival rates, reduces cancer recurrence, and lowers the risk of death compared to standard treatments.

What did Prostate Cancer UK say about the abiraterone decision?

Prostate Cancer UK called the decision a momentous, life-saving victory, estimating it will save 3,000 men's lives over the next five years.

Home / Health / Thousands More Men Gain Access to Life-Saving Cancer Drug

Thousands More Men Gain Access to Life-Saving Cancer Drug

17 Jan

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Summary

Abiraterone, a hormone therapy, now covers high-risk prostate cancer before spread.
Approximately 2,000 men could receive the drug this quarter, 7,000 annually.
Clinical trials show abiraterone significantly increases survival rates compared to standard treatment.

Thousands More Men Gain Access to Life-Saving Cancer Drug

Men in England battling prostate cancer are set to benefit from expanded eligibility for the life-extending drug abiraterone. The hormone therapy, which reduces testosterone production, was previously only available for advanced cases where cancer had spread. Now, NHS England has confirmed that individuals with high-risk prostate cancer that has not yet spread will also qualify for this crucial treatment.

This significant policy shift is expected to impact approximately 2,000 men diagnosed in the recent quarter, with an additional 7,000 men anticipated to become eligible each year. Clinical trials have shown compelling results, with 86% of men alive after six years on abiraterone compared to 77% on standard treatment.

Campaigners and medical experts have hailed the decision as a major victory. Research leader Professor Nick James highlighted that two years of abiraterone halves the risk of prostate cancer recurrence and reduces mortality by 40%. Prostate Cancer UK estimates this expansion will save 3,000 lives over the next five years.