The head of the NHS has announced that a revolutionary targeted drug for lung cancer will be made available to anyone who is eligible, thanks to a new drug deal.
The drug, Sotorasib, targets a genetic mutation and has been proven during trials to prevent lung cancer from growing for seven months.
NHS patients in England were the first in Europe to benefit from the drug in September thanks to an early access agreement made with the manufacturer. Approximately 100 patients have already received the treatment.
Amanda Pritchard, NHS England chief executive, said that the new deal meant even more patients could now benefit, with 600 people eligible for the ‘cutting edge’ drug every year.
The drug, which can be taken at home making it more convenient for patients, represents a major breakthrough in treatments for some of the world’s other deadliest cancers, including pancreatic and colorectal cancers. It is also expected to offer a better and longer life than standard chemotherapy could, while also producing fewer side effects, boosting patients’ quality of life.
Pritchard said: “It is fantastic news for hundreds more patients and their families that they will now be able to receive this first of its kind treatment thanks to another deal struck by the NHS. From life-changing drugs for cystic fibrosis to new treatments for sickle cell disease, this is the latest in a long list of deals we have struck to provide the latest cutting-edge therapies for patients – at a price that is affordable for the taxpayer.
“The NHS is committed to saving more lives from cancer through earlier diagnosis and treatment, and cancer has been prioritised throughout the pandemic, so anyone who has symptoms or is concerned should come forward and get checked as soon as possible.”
NHS clinical director for cancer Peter Johnson said: “It is very exciting to see this ground-breaking treatment coming into use after 40 years of research on this important target, to directly help patients with lung cancer that carries this particular mutation. The NHS is committed to saving more lives from cancer through better diagnosis and treatment, with molecular testing through our genomics programme increasingly important for selecting the best options for patients, and this deal will make this drug readily available for patients that need it most.”
