Life-changing breast cancer drug now affordable for thousands thanks to PBS listing 

Australians with an aggressive type of breast cancer, that affects up to 4,000 people every year, will have access to treatment that gives a better chance of eliminating the disease before surgery and improves long-term survival and outcomes, thanks to today’s decision that Perjeta ® (Pertuzumab) will be listed on the PBS.  

Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) has welcomed the decision which means for the first time, people with HER2-positive early breast cancer, a typically more aggressive and fast-growing form of the disease, will be able to access this vital medicine without facing huge out-of-pocket costs.

Adding Perjeta® (Pertuzumab) to standard treatment before breast cancer surgery may reduce the need for further targeted treatments and more invasive surgery, improving quality of life during recovery.  

Vicki Durston, BCNA Director of Policy, Advocacy and Support Services, said the PBS listing will give thousands of Australians with HER-2 positive breast cancer access to the best available treatment, while easing the financial burden of a breast cancer diagnosis.

“Until now, women have had to worry about whether they could afford the treatment that could have a major impact on their outcome.” 

“The PBS listing of Perjeta will help ensure all women can access the treatment they need, and can focus on their recovery, not on bills.”

Leanne Turner, who was diagnosed with HER2-positive breast cancer at age 47, said the PBS listing of Perjeta means more people will be able to experience the same hope and positive results that she did, without the stress of huge bills.

“When I was told I needed Perjeta as part of my treatment, it wasn’t covered by Medicare or my private health fund. I had to pay $6,500 out of my own pocket for the injections, on top of all my other treatment costs. I know I was fortunate to be able to afford it, but I kept thinking about all the people who simply couldn’t.”  

“Having access to this drug made a real difference to my health and recovery. I’m so grateful I was able to have it, but it shouldn’t come down to luck or financial position.”

Medical oncologist Dr Belinda Kiely said having Perjeta PBS reimbursed will help reduce the out-of-pocket costs for people with breast cancer and ensure everyone has access, not just those who can afford it.

“Adding Perjeta to the standard treatment before breast surgery for HER2-amplified breast cancer significantly increases the number of people with complete eradication of their breast tumours and we know complete eradication predicts for long term cure.”  

“The other benefit of eradicating the tumour before surgery is that the treatment after surgery can be less intensive with less side effects.”

For support and more information about breast cancer, call BCNA’s Helpline on 1800 500 258 or visit bcna.org.au.   

For media enquiries, including interviews, contact: 

Edwina Pearse

Breast Cancer Network Australia 

03 9805 2540

media@bcna.org.au