The GLIVEC international patient assistance programme: the Nairobi experience

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Pharmaceutical Access
• Public Health

Background:

• Glivec (imatinib) is a crucial treatment for chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) and gastrointestinal stromal tumours (GIST).
• High drug costs present a significant barrier to accessing Glivec for patients in developing countries like Kenya.
• Limited access impacts treatment outcomes for CML and GIST patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the accessibility and patient profile of the Glivec treatment program in Kenya.
• To assess the feasibility of providing essential cancer medications to underserved populations.
• To report on the initial outcomes and patient demographics within the program.

Main Methods:

• A patient access program was established in collaboration with Novartis, Axios International, and the Max Foundation.
• Patients diagnosed with CML or GIST in Nairobi were enrolled, primarily from Kenyatta National Hospital.
• Data collected included patient demographics, diagnosis, prior treatments, and compliance rates.

Main Results:

• A total of 201 patients were enrolled, with 86% having CML and 13.9% having GIST.
• The patient age ranged from 9 to 75 years (mean 39.5 years), with 56.5% males and 43.5% females.
• Approximately 80% compliance rate was observed, with most CML patients in the chronic stable phase and previously treated with hydroxyurea.

Conclusions:

• The established program successfully provides Glivec to Kenyan patients with CML and GIST, overcoming cost barriers.
• The program demonstrates a viable model for improving access to expensive cancer therapies in resource-limited settings.
• High compliance rates suggest the program effectively supports patient adherence to treatment.