British medical journal The Lancet published more information from the international HERA trial today, stating that women with early stage HER2 positive breast cancer who took Herceptin for 12 months following surgery and chemotherapy received a ‘significant overall survival benefit’ two years later.

The data was initially released at a conference in June 2006 and the rest of the developed world responded by fast-tracking appraisal and funding processes. Pharmac delayed, insisting on the publication of the data in a peer-reviewed journal. The Breast Cancer Aotearoa Coalition (BCAC) believes Pharmac can no longer ignore such irrefutable data that has convinced 23 of 29 OECD countries to fund Herceptin.

Pharmac has so far refused to fund the drug, stating the cost was too high and there was insufficient evidence to prove its effectiveness. Pharmac Director Peter Moodie announced yesterday that the government agency would review the latest published data but could not guarantee a change to its earlier decision. BCAC Chair Libby Burgess says Pharmac’s delays have already had tragic consequences for New Zealand women.

‘Pharmac must now do the right thing by our women and their families,’ said Ms Burgess. ’Since June last year 200 New Zealand women have been denied access to funded Herceptin. The published data proves that this will cost lives.  Any further delay is irresponsible and totally unacceptable. The Lancet publication leaves no plausible excuses to withhold funding and allow this aggressive cancer to go untreated in our women. A 34% survival benefit is massive and NZ women deserve this opportunity. It's time Helen Clark had a close look at New Zealand's drug funding processes that put us on a par with the very poorest OECD countries.  The rest of the world has already moved ahead on this data and New Zealand must follow.’
 

About the Breast Cancer Aotearoa Coalition
www.breastcancer.org.nz

The Breast Cancer Aotearoa Coalition (BCAC) is a charitable society providing a unified voice for New Zealand women and their families experiencing breast cancer.

BCAC was formed in November, 2004 when twelve New Zealand breast cancer organisations came together at a forum to create one group. BCAC now has fifteen member organisations and is currently working on five major initiatives:

1. to ensure consistent, high quality detection and treatment of breast cancer throughout New Zealand by promoting the development and implementation of evidence-based best practice guidelines;
2. to support the prompt and effective implementation of the extended age breast-screening programme (45 to 69);
3. to inform and advocate for improved access to breast cancer treatment drugs;
4. to research and promote the provision of professional psychosocial services for breast cancer patients and their whanau, family, friends and supporters;
5. to identify and promote breast cancer issues for Māori and Pacific Island women

To arrange an interview with a representative from the Breast Cancer Aotearoa Coalition, please contact:
Libby Burgess
lburgess@hortresearch.co.nz
(09) 815 7730
(09) 376 5941
Mobile 021 990 244