In a groundbreaking development, women with an invasive form of early breast cancer that poses a high risk of recurrence after initial treatment will now have access to an additional medicine. This advancement comes as the Government expands the listing of abemaciclib (Verzenio®) on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) for the first time in 15 years.

As of 1 May 2024, Verzenio has been available on the PBS for patients with hormone receptor-positive (HR+), human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 negative (HER2-), lymph node-positive, invasive, resected early breast cancer at high risk of disease recurrence. This inclusion marks a significant step forward in breast cancer treatment.[1]

Addressing a Critical Need

Women diagnosed with this type of early breast cancer face a daunting one-in-three chance of their cancer returning despite undergoing surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and ongoing hormone therapy. The statistics highlight the urgency of this development, as breast cancer remains the most common cancer among women, with approximately 57 Australians diagnosed daily.

Early breast cancer is characterized as invasive cancer confined to the breast, which may or may not have spread to lymph nodes in the breast or armpit. HR+, HER2- breast cancer is the most prevalent form, accounting for about 70% of all cases.

How Verzenio Works

Verzenio operates by inhibiting the activity of specific overactive proteins that signal cancer cells to grow, thereby helping to slow or halt the progression of cancer cells. This mechanism of action is particularly crucial for patients with early breast cancer at high risk of recurrence.

The expanded PBS listing of Verzenio is expected to benefit around 2,400 patients annually. Without this subsidy, patients could face costs of up to $97,000 per course of treatment. The PBS listing ensures that eligible patients will only pay a maximum of $31.60 per script, or just $7.70 with a concession card, making this life-changing medicine accessible to many.

Advocacy and Impact

The Breast Cancer Research Centre – WA acknowledges the vital advocacy efforts of organizations such as Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA) in achieving this outcome. Vicki Durston, BCNA Director of Policy, Advocacy, and Support Services, highlighted the broader implications of this listing, stating, “Listing of these drugs on the PBS will also help address other significant impacts of a breast cancer diagnosis, including fear of recurrence and financial toxicity relating to private funding of treatments that are not yet subsidised.”[2]

The Breast Cancer Research Centre – WA recognizes the profound impact this initiative will have on the lives of many women and their families. This expansion reflects a commitment to advancing breast cancer treatment and ensuring that patients have access to essential, life-saving medicines.

[1] https://www.health.gov.au/ministers/the-hon-mark-butler-mp/media/new-hope-to-treat-women-with-early-breast-cancer#:~:text=From%201%20May%202024%2C%20Verzenio,high%20risk%20of%20disease%20recurrence

[2] BCNA welcomes decision to recommend two crucial breast cancer drugs for government subsidy: https://www.bcna.org.au/latest-news/general-news/bcna-welcomes-decision-to-recommend-two-crucial-breast-cancer-drugs-for-government-subsidy/