Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) has welcomed a decision to recommend a new targeted treatment for metastatic breast cancer for PBS subsidy. Clinical trials show the new medicine TRUQAP® (capivasertib), in combination with hormone blocking treatment fulvestrant, keeps cancer from growing or spreading for more than twice as long than fulvestrant alone. The drug has been recommended for PBS subsidy for the treatment of HR+ / HER2- locally advanced or metastatic breast cancer, following recurrence or progression on or after endocrine therapy. Vicki Durston, BCNA Director of Policy, Advocacy and Support Services, said this has been a long-awaited outcome. “It is imperative people with metastatic breast cancer, a growing group with significant unmet needs, have timely access to new and innovative therapies,” she said. “We have been pleased to hear from consumers and clinicians alike that a previously cost prohibitive treatment will be within reach for people with metastatic disease who do not have time to wait.” “We welcome people living with metastatic breast cancer having another affordable treatment option that can extend their lives. They often face significant out of pocket costs for these drugs prior to them being subsided – and many cannot afford them at all,” Ms Durston said. Nurse Practitioner Jenny Gilchrist said the PBAC recommendation of TRUQAP® (capivasertib), in combination with fulvestrant, would help to shift metastatic breast cancer from a treatable but incurable diagnosis to a manageable chronic condition. “Capivasertib represents a significant advancement for eligible metastatic breast cancer patients, doubling progression-free survival when combined with fulvestrant,” she said. BCNA will continue to work with both the pharmaceutical company and government to ensure TRUQAP® (capivasertib), is listed on the PBS as soon as possible. For support and more information about breast cancer, call BCNA’s Helpline on 1800 500 258 or visit bcna.org.au.
