The decision to make available on the NHS a drug to combat breast cancer was today welcomed by a Braintree sufferer, who has already tried the treatment.
The National Institute of Clinical Excellence (Nice) today decided to recommend the use of the drug Herceptin, which is used to treat the advanced stages of breast cancer.
Cancer suffer Karen Elliott, 37, of Dickens Close, Braintree, has been receiving the drug for several months after winning an appeal to the North Essex Health Authority (NEHA).
Mrs Elliott today said: "The decision has not taken anything like the time I thought it would take. I think the amount of fuss made about the drug has made them come to a decision now.
"I am really pleased for the other people who can benefit from the drug. It's fantastic news."
Linda Tubb, deputy chief officer of the Mid Essex Community Health Council, said: "We regret the delay in giving the drug to women and hope that not too many women have suffered as a result.
"But obviously we are very happy the drug can now be prescribed."
Published Friday, March 15, 2002
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