A platinum-based chemotherapy was yesterday (6th August) championed for its ability to treat patients with adenocarcinoma or large-cell carcinonoma non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

According to the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (Nice), cisplatin - when combined with another chemotherapy known as pemetrexed - can increase some non-squamous NSCLC patients' lives beyond a year.

The organisation conducted clinical trials which showed that the treatment limited the number of transfusions required, while patients experienced less incidence of neutropenia and hair loss.

Following an assessment of the results, Nice published its recommendation for the use of the therapy on Thursday.

"This decision is truly significant and is fantastic news for lung cancer patients in the UK and the clinicians who have been campaigning for access," said Nick Thatcher, Professor of Medical Oncology at the Christie NHS Foundation Trust.

"The 'targeting' of patients has helped Nice confirm that pemetrexed and cisplatin is a clinically and cost-effective treatment in patients with a confirmed diagnosis of adenocarcinoma or large-cell carcinoma."

Professor Thatcher added that Nice should be commended for their efforts and that it is now crucial that "there is equitable access to this medicine throughout the UK".

Nice is expected to publish the final guidance on the first-line use of the treatment for locally-advanced or non-squamous NSCLC next month.

Source:

UK Patients To Benefit From Access To Innovative Lung Cancer Treatment (06/08/09)

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