Thousands of women fighting breast cancer have applauded the Federal Government’s decision to subsidise the life-saving drug Herceptin.
The drug previously cost up to $70,000 a year, but from October 1, it will be placed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme.
The move, after years of lobbying by breast cancer support groups, will cost the Government $470 million over the next three years.
Health Minister Tony Abbott said the Government had hastened the approval process for Herceptin, made by Roche.
“I appreciate that this is something a lot of people have been hoping for for some time now,” Mr Abbott said. “I know that the delay has frustrated a lot of people, but there are processes that have to be gone through.”
About 2000 women with HER2-positive early-stage breast cancer are expected to take advantage of Herceptin now that it is PBS-listed.
This year, Shepparton breast cancer patient Tania Calley was prepared to sell her house to buy Herceptin.
Thanks to generous donations from Herald Sun readers, Ms Calley was able to buy the expensive drug, and is now in the fifth month of treatment.
The mother of four said she was overjoyed by the Government’s decision to subsidise Herceptin.
Breast cancer support group Women on a Mission spokeswoman Isa Graham said the news was a huge relief for sufferers.
“Now they can relax and concentrate on getting better instead of worrying about their financial situation,” she said.
Previously, Herceptin was available on the PBS only for women with advanced breast cancer.
In April, the Therapeutic Goods Administration approved Roche’s application to extend use of Herceptin to patients with early-stage cancer. In July, the recommendation was backed by the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee.
The lengthy approval period was needed to ensure patient safety, National Breast Cancer Centre director Dr Helen Zorbas said.
