WOMEN with ovarian cancer now have greater access to treatment thanks to a new addition to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS).
The advanced ovarian cancer treatment drug olaparib was added to the PBS yesterday, February 1. It coincided with the start of Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month.
The drug, marketed as Lynparza, delays the disease recurrence while preserving a good quality of life for women with advanced ovarian cancer and the BRCA gene mutation.
"There's no better way for us to kick off Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month than with the news that day-to-day lives of women with advanced ovarian cancer will be improved," said Ovarian Cancer Australia's chief executive Jane Hill.
Since January 2016, the drug was available to women with advanced ovarian cancer for a cost of $13,500 for six months of treatment.
The PBS listing means that women can now access the drug for a maximum of $38 per month.
Each year 1550 Australian women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer and an additional 1200 die from the disease.
The low survival rate is largely attributed to many cases being diagnosed at an advanced stage.
The symptoms of ovarian cancer include:
- Abdominal or pelvic pain.
- Increased abdominal size or persistent abdominal bloating.
- The need to urinate often or urgently.
- Feeling full after eating a small amount.
Know, Ask, Act
February marks Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month.
Ovarian Cancer Australia is encouraging all Australians to KnowAskAct.
"That is, know the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer, ask for medical advice if you have these symptoms and act to improve the lives of women living with ovarian cancer by donating to the Ovarian Cancer Australia or hosting an Afternoon Teal fundraising event," Ms Hill said.
Buying a teal ribbon throughout February, especially Teal Ribbon Day on February 22, can help support woman living with the disease.
The ribbons are available for $2 from Chemmart Pharmacies, Terry White Chemists and Chemplus stores as well as www.ovariancancer.net.au
