Thousands of patients in England and Northern Ireland are missing out on the prostate cancer drug abiraterone, which can extend lives. The drug is more accessible in Scotland and Wales, leading to concerns of a postcode lottery. In England and Northern Ireland, it's currently approved only for advanced cases. Last year, research showed its benefits for earlier-stage tumors.
Prostate Cancer UK estimates that about 5,000 of the 52,000 newly diagnosed patients in England could benefit from the drug if it were more widely offered. Scotland and Wales have made it available to a broader group, partly due to reduced costs as the drug became generic.
Experts and charities are calling on health authorities to expand access. However, the process can be bureaucratic and lengthy, particularly since the drug is now generic.
Patients and advocates seek more equitable access and coverage for a wider group of advanced prostate cancer patients. NHS England plans to review its usage policies next year.