Brasília – Health minister Alexandre Padilha announced on Tuesday (12) that drugs used in the treatment of breast cancer will be available to patients through the Unified Health System (SUS) starting in October. The Clinical Protocol and Therapeutic Guidelines (PCDT), published eight months ago, recommend the use of cyclin inhibitors and trastuzumab emtansine to help prolong survival, delay chemotherapy, and reduce hospitalizations.

The announcement comes after a wait of more than three years, as the drugs were incorporated into the SUS in December 2021 and September 2022. According to the National Cancer Prevention and Control Policy (PNPC), after the publication of an incorporation decision, a drug should reach patients within 180 days.

Padilha explained that the process is in its final negotiation stage with the industry, states, and municipalities to secure fair pricing and proper registration of the medicines. “Our goal is to begin Pink October with the most modern and updated treatments for women. We are very dedicated to ensuring a historic Pink October,” said the minister during an event organized by Esfera Brasil.

He also announced the creation of a nationwide mammography quality control plan, noting that although Brazil has more mammography devices than necessary, many are malfunctioning, under maintenance without replacement, or out of service.

Source: Futuro da Saúde

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