Tom Gordon MP Calls for Equal Access to Life-Extending Prostate Cancer Drug

Tom Gordon, MP for Harrogate and Knaresborough, has called on the Government to ensure equal access to the life-extending prostate cancer drug abiraterone for patients in England, after constituent raised serious concerns about current inequalities in treatment. 

Currently, abiraterone is not approved in England as a first-line treatment for men with newly diagnosed, high-risk, hormone-sensitive metastatic prostate cancer. In contrast, patients in Scotland and Wales can access the drug earlier in their treatment. This discrepancy means men in England and Northern Ireland are missing out on a medication that can significantly improve both quality of life and life expectancy.

While abiraterone is not a cure, it plays a critical role in slowing disease progression, relieving symptoms, and extending survival – especially when introduced earlier in treatment. 

Tom became aware of the stark inequality in access after being contacted by a constituent facing exactly this issue. Although the constituent has been able to access abiraterone privately, he is deeply concerned that others cannot afford the same option. Tom and his constituent are united in their belief that access to vital treatment should not depend on personal wealth or postcode. 

In response, Tom raised the issue in an adjournment debate in Parliament, urging the Government to review current prescribing guidelines and ensure that all UK patients have equal access to effective cancer care. He highlighted the injustice of a system where ability to pay dictates access to treatment. 

Tom’s work doesn’t stop there. He is committed to continuing the fight for equal access and will work alongside cross-party colleagues to maintain pressure on the Government until change is delivered. 

Yesterday, the Minister confirmed that she would meet with him

Commenting after the debate, Tom Gordon MP said:

“Cancer touches countless lives, and we must do everything possible to ensure patients get the treatment they need – regardless of where they live or how much they earn. 

“It is simply unacceptable that men in England are being denied earlier access to a drug that’s available in other parts of the UK. With affordable, generic versions of abiraterone now on the market, the Government must act urgently to close this gap. 

“I urge Ministers to listen to patients, clinicians, and the growing body of evidence, and expand access to abiraterone in the early stages of treatment. Every man facing prostate cancer deserves a fair chance – and we must deliver consistency and compassion across our healthcare system.

“If you’re facing challenges accessing life-extending cancer drugs, I want to hear from you ahead of my meeting with the Minister - your experience could help make the case for urgent change.”

ENDS