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A prominent cancer expert has expressed concern that patients in Northern Ireland might face unequal access to a newly available injectable form of the immunotherapy drug pembrolizumab (Keytruda), as it begins to be introduced in other regions of the UK. The innovative treatment is anticipated to considerably reduce the duration many NHS patients spend receiving hospital care. Professor Mark Lawler of Queen’s University Belfast emphasized the importance of ensuring rapid and equal availability of the medication across the UK.
Keytruda, which has been widely used since 2015 in a traditional intravenous infusion format lasting over an hour, is now being offered as a quick injection. The new method involves either a one-minute injection every three weeks or a two-minute injection every six weeks, depending on the specific cancer diagnosis. NHS England highlights that this new delivery mechanism will not only expedite treatment but also reduce time commitments for both patients and healthcare staff.
Professor Lawler, who has over three decades of experience in cancer research, described this development as “revolutionary.” He referred to it as perhaps the most significant advancement in immunotherapy in the last quarter-century. While praising the potential benefits for patients and the healthcare system, he expressed disappointment that Northern Ireland has yet to introduce this treatment. He voiced a strong desire to avoid a “postcode lottery,” advocating for equal access regardless of location within the UK.
Regarding the delay, Lawler suggested that financial considerations might be a key factor, although he could not comment definitively. He pointed out that while there are acknowledged challenges, the new injection actually saves time and resources, making it a cost-effective solution that could improve patient care and system efficiency. The Northern Ireland Department of Health confirmed it is aware of the new injection and is actively investigating ways to make it available to patients at the earliest opportunity
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