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Treatment options after Abi

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User
Posted 20 Sep 2016 at 19:45

Does anyone know if Radium 223 is actually being offered to patients pre chemo (if clinically appropriate)?  According to a statement by NICE and the recent media coverage, I was under the impression that it is now used routinely on the NHS.  Went to see the oncologist today with my Dad and discussed this treatment option with her and she said due to funding issues she isn't able to offer this treatment.  I have asked PC-UK for clarificion but it would be really useful to know if anyone else has had a similar experience.  

Also, has anyone been offered Enzalutamide after Abiraterone?  We were told today that this would not be an option, as per NICE guidelines.  But, some of the comments on this website seems to suggest otherwise.

My Dad's PSA is rising from 441 to 563 in just a month - and chemo is the next line of treatment offered.  Though my Dad has no symptoms and enjoys a good quality of life which we are thankful for.  Spread to bones only.

Thanks,

Sabeena 

User
Posted 20 Sep 2016 at 23:25

Radium 223 isn't available at all hospitals - you might have to get a referral to the nearest specialist centre. Some men can have it pre-chemo but only by applying to the cancer drugs fund, I think.

All the research is that if abiraterone has failed, there is no point having enzo as it too will fail very quickly. It may be better to get the chemo now while he is still fit, as research is showing that the other treatments are more effective after chemo and seem to hit the cancer more effectively.

"Life can only be understood backwards; but it must be lived forwards." Soren Kierkegaard

User
Posted 21 Sep 2016 at 15:41

Originally Posted by: Online Community Member

Does anyone know if Radium 223 is actually being offered to patients pre chemo (if clinically appropriate)?

Sabeena,

The answer is yes as far as the county of Devon is concerned. That is exactly what my Onco is considering doing, see my profile for more information. My Onco may be influenced by the fact that I've stated since diagnosis that I'm interested in quality of life over and above quantity of life. It may be that if my priorities were different then she might recommend chemo before Radium 223. I will be exploring this with her at the next consultation.

David

 
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