Artist illustration of sickle cell disease

NHS announces new sickle cell treatment deal

Thousands of patients in England could seen see a new, potentially life-saving treatment for sickle cell disease offered to them on the NHS, after a deal was struck by the health service.

The first treatment for sickle cell disease to be agreed in over 20 years, the new drug – known as crizanlizumab – will be delivered by a transfusion drip and works by binding to a protein in the blood cells to prevent the restriction of blood and oxygen supply which can led to a state known as a ‘sickle cell crisis’.

People with sickle cell disease can endure these sickle cell crises multiple times a year, causing significant pain and often requiring hospital admission so that they can be given morphine to control the pain and prevent organ failure, which can be fatal.

In announcing the new deal, NHS Chief Executive Amanda Pritchard said the drug would help as many as 5,000 people over the next three years have a much better quality of life.

People with sickle cell often suffer monthly episodes, making it difficult to continue with everyday activities and regular jobs. A hereditary condition, it is much more prevalent among people from African or African-Caribbean origin.

Last year, NHS England established ten new dedicated centres to treat sickle cell disease across the country and patients will be able to access the new treatment through their consultant at one of these clinics.

The newly-struck deal ensures patients have earlier access to crizanlizumab than would otherwise have been possible, at a price which is fair for taxpayers.

Ms Pritchard said: “This is a historic moment for people with sickle cell disease who will be given their first new treatment in over two decades.

“This revolutionary treatment will help to save lives, allow patients to have a better quality of life and reduce trips to A&E by almost half.

“The NHS has agreed a deal for this drug, so we are able to provide the latest and best possible treatments for patients at a price that is affordable for taxpayers”.

Chair of the Sickle Cell Society, Kye Gbangbola MBA, added: “A new treatment brings new hope for people living with Sickle Cell Disorder (SCD), the world’s most common genetic blood condition.

“SCD is a ‘medical emergency’; it causes excruciating pain.

“This new treatment will reduce the number of agonising pain episodes we have to endure. The hope is improved quality of life for many living with the condition and their families”.

National Health Executive, Jan/Feb, Cover

NHE Jan/Feb 22

The pioneering programmes aimed at solving the NHS workforce pressures - starting at the top

This issue highlights the latest topics within the health sector, from pioneering programmes aimed at solving the NHS workforce pressures, treatment to slow the progression of Parkinson's disease, how the UK is leading the way in cancer research & more!

Videos...

View all videos
National Health Executive Presents

National Health Executive Presents

NHE365 Virtual Events

NHE has created a full calendar of events to address the most important issues that influence the delivery of healthcare services. Over 365 days you'll have the opportunity to hear from a range of highly motivating, informative and inspirational speakers. These speakers will equip you with the knowledge and unique insight to enable you to overcome the challenges that you face.

Finger on the Pulse

Ep 14. Health messaging is a science, Professor Craig Jackson

On Episode 14 of NHE's Finger on the Pulse podcast, we're joined by Professor Craig Jackson, Professor of Occupational Health Psychology
Birmingham City University to discuss the coronavirus pandemic, the health messaging around it and how those in power have missed a trick by overlooking the key role of psychology in informing the public of restrictions, measures and the ever-changing situation

More articles...

View all