Couple struggling to access 'vital' cancer drug
Kathryn StephensonA couple struggling to access a vital cancer treatment say they are "extremely stressed" by the uncertainty in its supply.
Christopher Belshaw, from Redcar, was diagnosed with inoperable pancreatic cancer in November and prescribed Creon, a pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (Pert), which helps digestion but has been hard to obtain for several years.
His wife Kathryn Stephenson has been driving them around pharmacies trying to find the drug and worries how they will manage after Christmas.
A Department of Health spokesperson said the supply issue was "European-wide" but it is working to mitigate the issue by "speeding up deliveries and increasing production".
Without the drug, patients lose weight and strength, which means their ability to cope with treatment such as chemotherapy is reduced.
Ms Stephenson said: "The nurse did tell us in the hospital that the new factory [creating Creon] should be up and running by the end of 2026 and I actually don't think my husband is going to be here then.
"The added stress of not knowing when he can get hold of Creon has really had an impact on Chris."
The couple are planning to take things in stages, aiming for Christmas first and then Mr Belshaw's birthday in February.
"We are in our 70s and I can drive, I worry about the people who can't," Ms Stephenson said.
'Distress and anxiety'
Anna Jewell, director of services and research at Pancreatic Cancer UK, said: "People affected by pancreatic cancer tell us that supply of Creon and other brands of pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy has generally improved across the UK.
"However, some people who rely on this medication are still facing challenges in securing the Pert they need, such as having to visit multiple pharmacies."
Ms Jewell said difficulties obtaining the medicine "can cause people significant distress and anxiety, as not having enough can have a significant impact on symptom control".
"Access to this medication is vitally important."
A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said: "We understand medicine supply issues can be extremely frustrating and worrying for patients and the clinicians caring for them.
"Comprehensive management guidance has been issued to healthcare professionals so no patient is left without Creon or an alternative brand of pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy.
"We urge healthcare professionals to follow the guidance, and any patient concerned about their treatment should speak to their clinician at the earliest opportunity."
