The Government has confirmed that it will not fund a 12 month course of Herceptin for women with breast cancer.
This drug has been labelled a "wonder drug" ever since 2005 when the American Society of Clinical Oncology provided evidence that use of Herceptin in early stage breast cancer could halve the recurrence rate.
In NZ arguments have been bandied about on benefits of the one year course over the 9 week course that is currently offered. However, as Dr Pippa MacKay chairperson of the Researched Medicines Industry Association says
"How can the the New Zealand population feel confident that Pharmac have got this, and potentially other decisions, right, while everyone else in the OECD has got it wrong?”
Act MP Heather Roy said today it was all about money.
"How could Labour find $25 million to save endangered snails - which weren't endangered - but can't find $25 million to save endangered women?" she asked.
The National Party has pledged to fund the 12 month course Herceptin if they win the election. Fortunately for the women who are suffering and their families, it looks as if National will win.
Please click on the link below to donate a free mammogram for an underprivileged woman.
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