Breast Cancer Network Australia
Case for Support 2024
Case study: Extending the lives of people with advanced (metastatic) breast cancer
Our goal: Risk stratification is prioritised for people with high risk of breast cancer
Enhertu (trastuzumab deruxtecan) is an innovative treatment for HER2-low metastatic breast cancer. However, its high cost — between $10,000 to $15,000 every three months — made it inaccessible for many Australians who could potentially benefit from it to prolong their lives. BCNA recognised the urgent need to make Enhertu affordable and accessible. Our advocacy strategy included consulting with our consumers about the impact of the drug and the financial burden of its cost, engaging with medical professionals to compile evidence of Enhertu's efficacy, and collaborating with pharmaceutical and cancer sector stakeholders. We then communicated directly with the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee (PBAC) and government decision-makers to encourage Enhertu's inclusion on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). In early 2024, we submitted a comprehensive report to the PBAC, incorporating patient experiences and clinical data. We then mobilised our consumer network to participate in the PBAC's public consultation process and engaged in media advocacy to raise public awareness about the importance of accessing Enhertu. The results paid off. In April 2024, the PBAC recommended listing Enhertu on the PBS for HER2-low metastatic breast cancer. We then advocated directly to the Federal Minister for Health for the speedy listing of Enhertu on the PBS once PBAC had made its recommendation so that people would not have to wait many months to access the drug. On 1 September 2024, Enhertu became available via PBS subsidy for people with metastatic HER2-low breast cancer.
This has had significant benefits for an estimated 1,700 Australians with HER2- low metastatic breast cancer, including dramatically reduced treatment costs and the potential for extended quality of life, as Enhertu is estimated to extend life by an average of 23 months. Our success with Enhertu in 2024 demonstrates the ongoing importance of consumer-led advocacy to improve breast cancer care in Australia and ensure patients can access innovative, life-prolonging treatments. My heartfelt thanks for all that you and the team continue to do – and achieve – for people like me. Congratulations on enabling so many to now, and in the future, access Enhertu through the PBS.
Breast cancer doesn't discriminate, but some face higher risks than others. Early detection through risk stratification, including screening is crucial in reducing the risk of getting breast cancer and preventing advanced- stage diagnoses (metastatic breast cancer) where longevity and quality of life are severely compromised. One in seven women in their lifetime will be diagnosed with breast cancer. Currently, Australia's public BreastScreen program offers free services based primarily on age, with women over 50 proactively invited to participate. However, this approach overlooks critical risk factors beyond age. Genetic conditions, breast tissue density, and lifestyle factors can significantly increase an individual's lifetime risk of developing breast cancer. We are at the forefront of advocating for a more contemporary, risk-based approach to managing risk and preventing breast cancer through early interventions such as medication and appropriate screening approaches. Through our extensive consumer network and national profile, we are promoting greater awareness about eligibility for breast screening from the age of 40 to increase participation and promotion of the use of risk stratified digital tools like iPrevent. BCNA is leading the charge in advancing breast cancer screening and risk stratification through both our research partnerships and strategic advocacy efforts. We are deeply involved in shaping the national conversation, working alongside BreastScreen Australia and Cancer Australia in their current review.
Our advocacy focuses on ensuring equitable access to supplemental screening for those at high risk, addressing regional disparities in screening technology and infrastructure, and pushing for the adoption of risk- based screening criteria that account for factors like breast density and family history. Through these efforts, we are championing the integration of advanced screening technologies and AI to overcome workforce shortages, while improving early detection, outcomes, and quality of life for all Australians impacted by breast cancer. How your investment can help In 2025, our response to the Australian Government’s breast screening review will draw from extensive consultation with our consumers and key stakeholders about the impact and benefit of proposed changes. We have seen the power of public calls for action in our previous advocacy efforts. We will use our network’s voice and collective policy expertise, as well as our contributions to research to ensure high-risk individuals are able to access services regardless of where they live or their background.
Investment opportunity: $35,000
Glenda, BCNA Metastatic Breast Cancer Lived-Experience Group member
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