Last July the National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE) withdrew Alimta, a drug for people with the asbestos-related cancer mesothelioma.

Eli Lilley, who manufacture the drug, appealed against that decision. Now a new NICE draft has indicated that, following a review, Alimta can be used for patients with advanced mesothelioma. Although the cancer is nearly always terminal the drug can help extend patients' lives by a few months.

Geraldine Kerrison, Head of MCP's Industrial Disease department notes "This is good news for sufferers of this dreadful disease who have advanced cancer and where surgery is in appropriate who, until now, have had to pay privately for the drug.

"The initial decision by NICE was on economic grounds but the review concluded that costs could be reduced by shorter treatment cycles and lower doses. Hopefully the drug will be available on the NHS in a few months time.

"There were 130 deaths from mesothelioma in Norfolk between 2000-2004 and the Health and Safety Executive predict the numbers will increase and peak in 2015."

Geraldine is having discussions with local Respiratory Consultants to set up an Asbestos Support Group in East Anglia.

She is also awaiting the decision of the House of Lords who heard the appeal in the test case of Rothwell v Chemical Insulation Co Ltd between 25th and 28th June 2007 as to whether compensation should be paid to victims who have developed pleural plaques (ie scarring of the lungs), which is an asbestos related condition.

Geraldine notes "If the House of Lords dismiss the appeal it will bring to an end an established right which has existed for over 20 years for sufferers of pleural plaques.

"Medical experts recognise pleural plaques are a sign of irreversible damage to the lungs caused by a history of negligent exposure to asbestos, which carried an increased risk of malignant disease such as lung cancer or mesothelioma. I have a number of clients who await the decision which is anticipated in a few months time."

For more information please contact Geraldine Kerrisonn