BCNA partners to seek wider access to precision cancer therapies

BCNA partners with other cancer groups to call for expanded access to innovative and effective precision therapies.

The past two decades have seen dramatic advancements in more targeted, more effective and less toxic cancer treatments across all cancer types, not only for breast cancer.

That is why BCNA is a signature – with 10 other cancer organisations – to a position statement led by Rare Cancers Australia urgently calling for expanded access to these promising precision oncology therapies.

In their statement Rare Cancers says Australia lags behind other countries for approvals for these new therapies equitably across all cancers, because in Australia our health technology assessment (HTA) system assesses and approves cancer therapies for each cancer type – one at a time.

"Too many people living with cancer in Australia still don't have access; and they can't afford to wait," the statement says.

"It is time for Australia to realise the full potential of precision oncology and deliver equitable outcomes across all cancer types."

"It is crucial that our HTA system delivers the best technologies and treatment to people without delay."

"We urge stakeholders to show leadership and work together to recognise the potential for improving the lives of people living with cancer and their families."

These precision therapies either target specific cancer cells or manipulate our own immune system to attack the cancer cells.

Unlike traditional chemotherapy drugs, these therapies can specifically target cancer cells while avoiding damaging normal cells.

Bladder Cancer Australia (BEAT), Canteen, Melanoma Patients Australia, Leukemia Foundation, Lung Foundation Australia, Pancare Foundation, Omico, Melanoma & Skin Cancer Advocacy Network (MSCAN) and Pink Hope also signed Raer Cancer Australia's position statement.

At BCNA we are committed to work with the entire cancer sector to drive this advocacy.

Read the position statement