Breast Cancer Care: Reaction to NICE recommendation on bevacizumab (Avastin)

Commenting on NICE’s recommendation on bevacizumab (Avastin), Dr Emma Pennery, Clinical Director at Breast Cancer Care said:

“This recommendation will be disappointing for people with secondary (metastatic) breast cancer.

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“We know from supporting these patients via our helpline and other services how much they value any additional treatments that have the potential to help slow down the progression of the disease.

“We would like to see further research that clearly identifies which patients will benefit from bevacizumab and the most effective way to use it in combination with other drugs. “In the mean time, doctors who believe their patients could benefit from bevacizumab can apply for funding through the Cancer Drugs Fund and we encourage them to discuss this option.”

ENDS

Notes to editors:

1) A diagnosis of advanced or secondary breast cancer means that the breast cancer cells have travelled to another part of the body such as the liver, lungs or bones. Secondary breast cancer is not curable but thanks to advances in medical treatments the disease can be controlled for many months and in some cases years.

For further media information, please contact
Laura Grossart
0207 960 3473/ 0770 290 1334
Laura.Grossart@breastcancercare.org.uk

Breast Cancer Care is here for anyone affected by breast cancer. We bring people together, provide information and support, and campaign for improved standards of care. We use our understanding of people’s experience of breast cancer and our clinical expertise in everything we do.Visit www.breastcancercare.org.uk or call our free helpline on 0808 800 6000.