The development of innovative new cancer medicines that meaningfully improve patient survival and quality of life is to be celebrated. But a new commentary from Common Sense Oncology published in The Lancet Oncology warns that spiraling prices risk turning these new treatments into unfulfilled promises, because they may not be accessible to the patients who need them.
Highlighting the example of daraxonrasib, a breakthrough pancreatic cancer drug, Common Sense Oncology’s commentary cautions that the launch price of US$39,800 per month (the equivalent of C$56,300 per month) will leave patients with a staggering financial burden. Additionally, if the US launch price is maintained across other countries, decision-makers in public health systems are unlikely to find that the drug is cost-effective, despite its significant medical benefits, potentially limiting its availability.
Common Sense Oncology calls for collective action across the cancer community—including oncologists, researchers, professional societies, civil society, community organizations, people with lived experience, advocates, regulators, and legislators.
Read the full press release from Common Sense Oncology for details. For more information, watch the CBC The National segment about the pricing of daraxonrasib below and read the CBC article.