Barwon Health Clinical Trials uncover a new treatment for chronic leukaemia
The Barwon Health Haematology and Oncology Trials Team (HOTT) have contributed to the release of a new treatment for people suffering from a common form of chronic leukaemia.
HOTT led the recruitment and management of the local phase 3 clinical trial of Calquence, which was tested across the world and was found to be a useful treatment for chronic lymphatic leukaemia (CLL), particularly in patients with relapsed disease. The treatment has just been listed through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS), meaning it is available to patients by prescription at an affordable price.
Local patients enrolled in the trial included Mr David Selway-Hoskins. As Mr Selway-Hoskins, 76, told the Geelong Advertiser, the drug's listing on the PBS was "absolutely" a good thing, and he will continue to take Calquence after its PBS listing.
Barwon Health Director of Cancer Services and Head of Haematology Philip Campbell said the listing was a testament to the importance of clinical trials. "It's very exciting for patients, and essentially provides people with relapsed disease another treatment option in oral form.”
To read the full article from the Geelong Advertiser, click here.
