Lung cancer drug Alimta made available to mesothelioma sufferers
12/12/2005
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People suffering from mesothelioma will be given access to Alimta, a potentially life-saving lung cancer drug.
People living in the north east of England will be able to get the drug.
The decision was made by Northumberland, Tyne and Wear Strategic Health Authority.
The drug can extend a sufferer's life by up to four months, but is not a cure for the disease.
Specialist industrial disease solicitor Gina Heather said "I am pleased that people will be given access to this drug. Alimta will help mesothelioma sufferers. I hope it will be made available more widely cross the country."
It is already given to patients in some areas such as London.
The north east has one of the highest rates of mesothelioma.
The cancer is caused by asbestos, which many people were exposed to when the shipbuilding and steel industries were thriving.
A spokeswoman for Tyne and Wear Strategic Health Authority said that it was important for every case to be considered individually by the consultant and patient together.
The ruling covers NHS trusts in County Durham, Tees Valley, Northumberland and Tyne and Wear.
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