The information requested is not available centrally.
(2) what steps his Department is taking to increase the level of support provided to those affected by lung cancer; and if he will make a statement.
The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) has issued guidance on the use of erlotinib for the treatment of lung cancer. NICE is also currently preparing guidance on the use of pemetrexed, topotecan and vandetanib for the treatment of lung cancer as well as further guidance on the use of erlotinib.
In 2005, NICE issued clinical guidelines on the diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer, which addressed supportive and palliative care for lung cancer patients. An updated version of the guidelines is due to be published in 2011. These guidelines complement the guidance on Improving Outcomes in Lung Cancer, published in 1998, which has since been fully implemented across the national health service.
Alongside NICE’S work programme on lung cancer, the Department will shortly be reconvening the Lung Cancer and Mesothelioma Advisory Group (LCAMAG) to further advise the National Cancer Director, Professor Mike Richards, and the department on the development and delivery of high quality services for lung cancer patients in England.
In addition, the National Lung Cancer Audit, part of the National Clinical Audit and Patient Outcome Programme, helps clinicians improve the quality and outcomes of lung cancer services. It provides comparative data about the incidence, nature and treatment of lung cancer, with the aim of improving patient care and outcomes.
The information requested is not available centrally.