[Christine MH-UK]

I had hoped that that study indicating that herceptin was cost effective because it not only saved some lives but also lessened the need for secondary care would have closed this issue for good. Apparently not. Still, if the science behind the study indicating that herceptin saves money was good, then there is a chance that this issue can be put to rest.

I still think that herceptin only during chemo deserves further trialing, and not just because it would make herceptin affordable to many more people/countries. I have had alot of IBC and stage III acquaintances not make it on the HERA trial protocol, so was impressed that Hurley in Miami managed a fairly high four-year disease free survival rate for these high risk groups using a treatment in which herceptin was only given with chemo. It was a small study, but statistically the DFS rate was unlikely to be less than two-thirds, which is alot better than my acquaintances has done. (My husband once asked me 'Are any of your friends making it?' during a particularly grim period).

So, there are potential short run and long-run solutions.

Best wishes,

Christine