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Thousands More Men Gain Access to Life-Saving Cancer Drug
17 Jan
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.
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.
