Looming shortage of cancer drugs causing concern for many

It is some of the worst news that any parent could receive that there child has a life-threatening cancer.

That news may now be made worse because of shortages of cancer drugs, which could make treatment more difficult.

Unfortunately this is something that is extremely concerning to parents.

You expect to see young children out on a playground, not being forced to deal with cancer. What we discovered is this is not just a problem for childhood cancers, but potentially for cancer drugs of all kinds.

We are very concerned about drug shortages, as are a number of cancer organizations because our patients are affected, commented the Leukemia and Lymphoma Societys Elizabeth Mihmet.

We had our patients reach out to us and say I am really worried, Mihmet added.

One of the drugs that are now in short supply is methotrexate, which is used to treat acute lymphoblasitic leukemia. The form of leukemia usually strikes young kids between two and five.

These are expensive drugs to manufacture, realized Mihmet.

One of the nations largest producers of methotrexate had to shut down because of significant manufacturing and quality concerns.

Survival rates for leukemia are up over 90 percent, Mihmet did tell CBS 21.

But, not if you dont get the drugs you need and money can definitely be a key ingredient.

If you were at CML patient and you were put on Gleevec, which is a targeted oral cancer therapy that has a wonderful cure rate, that could be upwards of $50,000 a year.

In order to help, Mihmet says, Were asking all of our patients to reach out to their legislators and them know that there are drug shortages and potential drug shortages and how important it is that they and their loved ones have access to the best and most targeted therapies.

Penn State Hershey told CBS 21 that their oncology and pharmacy staffs are working hard to navigate this problem with creative solutions, they are looking for alternate suppliers of the drugs and when appropriate even alternate treatment methods.

Penn State also wanted us to stress this is a problem that all hospitals are facing across the country; it is not an issue that is just confined to here in PA.

This is an evolving story and one that we certainly will keep you updated on.

Tags: Young Children

Source: http://www.gammaphibetaduq.com/2012/03/11/looming-shortage-of-cancer-drugs-causing-concern-for-many/

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