CANCER DRUG IS BOOST FOR SCOTS WOMEN ; Treatment Lessens the Chance of Recurrence

SCOTTISH breast cancer sufferers are to benefit from a breakthrough drug.

The drug, Arimidex, dramatically reduces the chances of cancer returning in older women after surgery.

It cuts their risk by 76 per cent – 25 per cent more than the current most popular treatment Tamoxifen.

The Scottish Medicines Consortium approved the use of the drug this week – 15 months ahead of other parts of the UK.

From today, 3500 postmenopausal women will be able to be treated with Arimidex treatment after surgery.’

Breast cancer surgeon Dr Chris Wilson, a consultant at Glasgow’s Western Infirmary, said the move showed Scotland was now leading the way in breast cancer care.

He added: “Now women with breast cancer will be among the first in the UK to benefit from access to this more effective drug immediately after their surgery.”

Anne Brown, from Carnoustie in Angus, was diagnosed with breast cancer three years ago.

She is one of a small number of women who are using Arimidex after being told she could suffer serious side effects to Tamoxifen.

Teacher Anne said: “It’s truly great news for all fellow Scots women affected by breast cancer