The NHS in the UK is set to offer a new treatment for patients with advanced or recurrent womb cancer, using the groundbreaking immunotherapy drug Dostarlimab, also known as Jemperli. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has approved the use of this treatment for up to 200 eligible patients each year, marking a significant development in the fight against this type of cancer. Dostarlimab, administered alongside chemotherapy, has demonstrated promising results in extending the life expectancy and improving the quality of life for patients.

Clinical trials have shown that Dostarlimab, when combined with chemotherapy, significantly halts cancer progression in a large percentage of patients after a year of treatment, compared to those receiving chemotherapy alone. This innovative treatment works by enhancing the immune system’s ability to target specific proteins found on cancer cells, representing a new hope for those battling this disease.

Cancer Research UK’s data highlights the severity of womb-related cancers in the country, with 9,700 new cases and 2,400 deaths annually. The introduction of Dostarlimab on the NHS, as a first-line treatment for advanced or recurrent endometrial cancer, is seen as a key advancement. Common side effects of the treatment include underactive thyroid glands and skin rashes, yet it offers a more promising outlook in terms of life extension and quality compared to traditional treatments.

The availability of Dostarlimab through the NHS Cancer Drugs Fund (CDF) ensures that patients can access this cutting-edge therapy promptly. This move has been met with optimism by healthcare professionals and patients alike, with individuals like Sue Woodburn sharing positive experiences of maintaining a good quality of life while undergoing treatment with Dostarlimab. The NHS and NICE’s approval of this treatment underscores the importance of providing swift access to effective therapies for individuals fighting womb cancer.