Macmillan Cancer Support urges NICE to rethink interim decision on kidney cancer treatments
Thursday, 07 August 2008, UK-wide
The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) today announces its interim Appraisal Committee Decision on the use of Avastin, Sutent, Nexavar and temsirolimus as treatments for renal cell carcinoma.
In response to the decision by NICE, Ciarán Devane, Chief Executive at Macmillan Cancer Support, said:
"We are disappointed that NICE's interim position does not recommend the use of any of the treatments for the NHS. Kidney cancer is a devastating disease with few treatment options, these new treatments could give some patients extra time and a better quality of life which is extremely precious to patients and their families. We strongly urge NICE to take account of the views of kidney cancer patients and their doctors and overturn today's announcement.
"Until the Final Appraisal Determination is made, clinicians should continue to prescribe these treatments where appropriate, in line with health service guidelines."
Macmillan will now submit further evidence in support of the use of these treatments for renal cell carcinoma in patients who are likely to benefit from these drugs, before NICE makes its final decision.
For further information please contact Anna Brosnan, Macmillan Cancer Support, on 020 7840 7818 or at abrosnan@macmillan.org.uk