A "Trojan horse" therapy that sneaks toxic drugs inside cancer cells is being made available on the NHS in England in a world first. It can halt the blood cancer myeloma for nearly three times longer than current therapies. The drug is an advanced form of chemotherapy that hits cancer with a bigger dose, while reducing side-effects. Paul Silvester, one of the first people to get it, says the therapy has been "life-changing" and he's now planning history-themed adventures. Myeloma – also known as multiple myeloma – affects part of the immune system called plasma cells. These are made in the spongey bone marrow in the centre of our bones. Paul, who is 60 and from Sheffield, was diagnosed nearly two years ago after the cancer led to broken bones in his back. He had a bone marrow transplant last year, but relapsed around Christmas. He has since been on the new therapy – called belantamab mafodotin – as part of an early access scheme. Within weeks he was in remission. Other treatments could have left him isolating in his bedroom for months, so Paul says the therapy "is absolutely life-changing" and was "creating that opportunity to enjoy" life. Visiting Hadrian's Wall is next on the agenda for history buff Paul; and he's looking forward to one of his daughters graduating later this year. "Most people say 'you look really really well'... I have a good normal life," he told the BBC. Paul's therapy - belantamab mafodotin – is a lethal chemotherapy drug that has been bound to an antibody, similar to the ones the body uses to fight infection. However, these antibodies have been designed to spot markings on the outside of plasma cells. So they travel to cancerous cells, stick to the surface and are then absorbed. Once inside they release their toxic payload, to kill the cancer. The therapy is named Trojan horse therapy after the siege of the city of Troy in Greek mythology, when a giant wooden horse was used to smuggle soldiers into the city. Myeloma cannot be cured, butclinical trials last yearshowed the Trojan horse therapy halted the cancer for three years, compared to 13 months with current therapies. Prof Peter Johnson, the national clinical director for cancer at NHS England, said the difference was "life-changing". He told me: "This is a really important development for people with myeloma, because although we may not be able to cure the illness, giving them time free of the disease and free of the symptoms is really important. "We've seen in the last few years that using antibodies to deliver chemotherapy drugs directly into cells can make a big difference for a variety of different types of cancer." Around 33,000 people are living with myeloma in the UK. The new drug will be used when the first-choice therapy fails, so around 1,500 patients a year could benefit. The decision comes after a review by the National Institute of Health and Care Excellence (NICE) concluded the drug was cost-effective for NHS use. NICE recommendations are normally adopted in England, Wales and Northern Ireland while Scotland has its own process. The therapy is kinder than other cancer treatments, but is not free from side-effects. After a cancer cell has been destroyed, the remaining chemotherapy drug will leak into the body. This can cause dry eyes and blurred vision. The technical name for these drugs is an antibody-drug-conjugate. This therapy was developed by GSK in the UK with early research taking place in Stevenage and the first clinical trials in London. Prof Martin Kaiser, team leader in myeloma molecular therapy at the Institute of Cancer Research, said these "are very smart drugs" and the difference in side effects compared to other drugs "is really remarkable". While myeloma is still considered an incurable cancer, Prof Kaiser says drugs like this are "an important step towards a functional cure" and he thinks long-term remission will go "above 50% in the next five years". Antibody drug conjugates are being developed for a range of cancers. The limitation is being able to design an antibody that can target the cancer alone. There is one that can target some types of breast cancer. Research is already taking place on stomach and bowel cancer. Shelagh McKinlay, from the charity Myeloma UK, said the approval would "transform the lives of thousands" and it was "fantastic to see the UK at the forefront of myeloma treatment". Health Minister Karin Smyth, said: "This ground-breaking therapy puts the NHS at the forefront of cancer innovation."
World-first blood cancer therapy to be given on NHS
TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:
"NHS to Offer Innovative 'Trojan Horse' Therapy for Blood Cancer Treatment"
Bbc News
7.1
TruthLens AI Summary
A groundbreaking therapy known as 'Trojan horse' therapy is set to be made available on the NHS in England, marking a significant milestone in the treatment of blood cancer, specifically myeloma. This innovative treatment utilizes an advanced form of chemotherapy that allows for a more potent dose of medication to directly target cancer cells while minimizing side effects. Patients like Paul Silvester, who has battled myeloma for nearly two years, have reported life-altering results from this therapy. After experiencing a relapse following a bone marrow transplant, Silvester began treatment with belantamab mafodotin, which is part of an early access scheme. Remarkably, he achieved remission within weeks of starting the therapy, enabling him to resume activities and make plans for the future, such as visiting historical sites and attending family events. This therapy has been described as 'absolutely life-changing' by Silvester, who noted that it allowed him to regain a sense of normalcy and enjoy life again despite his diagnosis.
The therapy works by utilizing antibodies designed to identify and attach to specific markers on the surface of plasma cells, which are the cancerous cells affected by myeloma. Once the antibodies bind to these cells, they facilitate the delivery of toxic chemotherapy agents directly into the cancer cells, effectively halting the disease for much longer than existing treatments—up to three years compared to just 13 months with current therapies. While myeloma remains incurable, experts believe that advancements like this could significantly improve patients' quality of life and extend periods of remission. Approximately 1,500 patients annually in the UK may benefit from this therapy after first-line treatments fail. The National Institute of Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has deemed the therapy cost-effective, paving the way for its adoption in the NHS. While the treatment does carry some side effects, such as dry eyes and blurred vision, its development represents a promising step forward in cancer treatment, with potential implications for various types of cancers in the future.
TruthLens AI Analysis
The article highlights a groundbreaking therapy for blood cancer, specifically myeloma, that is now available on the NHS in England. This development not only represents a significant advancement in cancer treatment but also seeks to inspire hope among patients and their families. The therapy, known as belantamab mafodotin, is characterized as a "Trojan horse" approach, as it allows toxic drugs to be effectively delivered inside cancer cells while minimizing side effects. The personal story of Paul Silvester, who has experienced a remarkable turnaround in his health, adds a compelling human element to the narrative.
Purpose of the Publication
The intent behind this news piece seems to be multi-faceted. Primarily, it aims to inform the public about an innovative treatment option that could benefit many patients suffering from myeloma. By sharing Paul's personal success story, the article also seeks to create a sense of optimism and resilience among those facing similar health challenges. Furthermore, it may serve to promote the NHS and its role in making cutting-edge therapies accessible to patients.
Public Perception
This article is likely designed to foster a positive public perception regarding advancements in cancer treatment and the NHS's commitment to providing top-notch healthcare. By focusing on a successful case, it aims to instill confidence in both the medical community and the public about the efficacy of new therapies.
Potential Omissions
While the article presents an uplifting story, it may downplay the complexity and the challenges associated with myeloma treatment. For instance, it does not delve into the potential side effects of belantamab mafodotin or the fact that myeloma is still considered incurable. Such omissions could lead to an overly optimistic view of the therapy's effectiveness.
Manipulative Elements
The article leans towards an optimistic narrative, which may lead to accusations of manipulation, particularly if readers are not fully informed about the limitations of the therapy. The choice of language, emphasizing success and transformation, could be seen as an attempt to create a narrative that overshadows the harsher realities of cancer treatment.
Credibility Assessment
The credibility of this article is relatively high, as it is based on a real-life case and discusses a legitimate medical advancement. However, it is essential for readers to consider the broader context of cancer treatment and the challenges that still exist, which are not fully addressed in the piece.
Expectation of Impact
The release of this news could have various implications for society and the economy. It may lead to increased public support for cancer research funding and healthcare initiatives. Additionally, it could affect the stock market, particularly for pharmaceutical companies involved in cancer treatments, as positive media coverage can influence investor sentiment.
Community Reception
This article is likely to resonate with cancer patients, their families, and advocacy groups focused on blood cancers. It serves to inspire hope and may motivate discussions around treatment options among communities affected by cancer.
Market Influence
In terms of market dynamics, this news could impact the stock prices of companies associated with the development and distribution of belantamab mafodotin or similar therapies. Investors may view this as a sign of progress in cancer treatment, potentially leading to increased investment in related biotech firms.
Geopolitical Considerations
While the article primarily focuses on a healthcare breakthrough, it could indirectly relate to broader discussions about healthcare accessibility and innovation within the UK. Such advancements may influence international perceptions of the UK's healthcare system.
AI Utilization in Writing
It is plausible that AI tools were employed in crafting this piece, especially in terms of structuring the narrative and emphasizing emotional aspects. However, without explicit information, it is difficult to assess the extent of AI's influence on the article's tone or direction.
In conclusion, the article is primarily informative and aims to promote a sense of hope surrounding a new cancer therapy. However, it could benefit from a more balanced view that addresses the complexities of cancer treatment, ensuring readers have a complete understanding of the situation.