Bladder cancer patients offered survival hope as NHS approves durvalumab

NICE has recommended durvalumab for muscle-invasive bladder cancer after a trial reported a 32% reduction in the risk of progression, and about 630 patients a year are expected to be eligible.

Durvalumab has been recommended for use on the NHS for people with muscle-invasive bladder cancer. A landmark trial of more than 1,000 patients reported a 32% reduction in the risk of disease progression compared with standard care. The drug is administered alongside chemotherapy before radical cystectomy and continued after surgery. Key points: - The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has recommended durvalumab be rolled out on the NHS for muscle-invasive bladder cancer. - A trial of over 1,000 patients reported a 32% reduction in the risk of progression compared with standard care. - Approximately 630 patients a year in the UK are expected to be eligible for the therapy under the new regimen. - Patient groups and clinicians welcomed the decision; specific next implementation steps or timelines were not detailed. Summary: The recommendation makes durvalumab an NHS treatment option for eligible patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer and has been described as important by patient groups and treating doctors. Undetermined at this time.