International Myeloma Foundation (IMF) president and cofounder, Susie Novis, called for all patients to have access to the newest pharmaceuticals in the treatment of multiple myeloma.

"We support efforts that put patients first, support healthcare advances, and work for better outcomes until there is a cure," explained Novis. "While we understand that cost of treatment is always a consideration, we believe society pays a higher price when the most vulnerable people among us - patients with a deadly disease - are denied access to transformational therapeutics that can prolong their lives."

The IMF is particularly concerned about patient access to three advanced myeloma treatments — Revlimid (lenalidomide), thalidomide (Thalomid) and Velcade (bortezomib). These drugs, which have been approved by the FDA and other national authorities during the last several years, can significantly prolong the lives of myeloma patients.

The author of one recent scientific publication, for example, reports that Revlimid showed a "doubling of survival at two years [compared to older treatments], with preliminary evidence that this survival will be maintained for at least three to four years." Thalomid and Velcade have similarly extended and improved the lives of patients with multiple myeloma.

Recent events suggest, however, that patient access to these new therapies is not guaranteed. Patients in England and Wales, for example, may see their access to Revlimid severely restricted in the near future (Related Beacon news item).

The IMF therefore supports efforts in the UK, Canada, and elsewhere to increase patient access to new drugs. It is encouraged by recent decisions by the UK's National Health Service (NHS) to increase the range of drug prices that are considered cost effective, and to allow patients to receive care outside the NHS without losing their right to government care. The IMF likewise looks forward to the reimbursement of Revlimid in the various Canadian provinces now that Canada has approved Revlimid as a myeloma therapy.