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A groundbreaking new treatment for blood cancer has been approved for use by the NHS in England, marking a major step forward in the fight against multiple myeloma—a currently incurable cancer of the bone marrow. The therapy, called belantamab mafodotin (brand name Blenrep), works like a “Trojan horse”: it enters the cancer cells and releases a powerful cell-killing agent from within. Trials show the drug, when used with other medications, can delay disease progression for nearly three years—almost triple the time offered by current standard treatments.
The treatment will be made available to about 1,500 patients annually whose cancer has stopped responding to initial therapies. Administered via infusion every three weeks, Blenrep is part of a new class of antibody-drug conjugates designed to specifically target and destroy cancer cells while sparing healthy tissue. NHS England is the first health system in the world to implement this treatment, a move hailed by cancer experts and health officials as life-changing for patients and their families.
Patient testimony has reinforced the drug’s impact. Paul Silvester, 60, from Sheffield, who received the therapy after other treatments failed, reported being in remission within weeks of his first dose. He praised the treatment for dramatically improving his health and outlook, calling it “amazing” and highlighting its positive impact on his quality of life and future goals, such as attending his daughter’s graduation.
Health leaders and advocacy groups have welcomed the news. Professor Peter Johnson of NHS England said the therapy offers patients “precious time” with loved ones, while Myeloma UK and health minister Karin Smyth celebrated the NHS’s role in pioneering access to this innovative cancer-fighting technology. The approval by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) also reflects a broader commitment to providing fast, affordable access to cutting-edge therapies for UK patients.
