A life-extending injection for a fatal form of blood cancer is now available on the NHS.
Around 350 people each year are set to benefit from daratumumab, which can extend the lives of multiple myeloma patients by an average of nine months.
The drug has been given the green light for routine use by NICE after it was made available for a limited period through the Cancer Drugs Fund.
NHS Chief Executive, Amanda Pritchard said:
“This quick injection can have a real impact on the lives of patients and their families and so it is important news that it is now routinely available on the NHS.
“The drug will offer a ray of light to hundreds of people each year who have had limited success with other treatments for this devastating, advanced blood cancer.”
Multiple myeloma is a debilitating cancer that affects bone marrow in areas such as the spine, pelvis, skull and ribs.
Those affected can have weak and painful bones, with unusual bleeding, fatigue and weight loss.
The condition can also weaken their immune system, leading to recurrent infections.
Myeloma cannot be cured. However, drugs like daratumumab can enable patients to live longer, with better quality of life.
The drug takes effect within five minutes of injection, with few side effects.
It works by attaching to a protein on the cancer’s cells, signifying to the immune system to kill it.
Health and Social Care Secretary Sajid Javid said:
“It is great the NHS will begin routinely administering daratumumab to blood cancer patients – this life-extending drug is another example of an innovative treatment being rolled out on the NHS, marking a significant stride in our mission to make the country’s cancer care the best in Europe.
“The government is placing huge emphasis on research into the best possible care and treatment for cancer as part of the 10-Year Cancer Plan, as well as improving early diagnosis so treatment can be more effective”.
Multiple myeloma is more common in men and adults over 60 more generally.
The condition is also about twice as common in black populations than white and Asian populations.