In a significant advancement for women's health, the NHS in England and Wales will now offer capivasertib—a groundbreaking oral treatment—for advanced breast cancer patients. This decision comes after the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) reversed its earlier stance, acknowledging the drug's potential to benefit approximately 3,000 women annually.

Capivasertib, developed by AstraZeneca, targets hormone receptor-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer with specific genetic mutations. By inhibiting the AKT protein that promotes cancer cell growth, the drug effectively slows disease progression. Clinical trials have demonstrated that, when combined with hormone therapy fulvestrant, capivasertib extends the time before disease progression from 3.1 to 7.3 months.

Experts, including Professor Nicholas Turner of the Institute of Cancer Research, have hailed this approval as a "landmark moment." Claire Rowney, CEO of Breast Cancer Now, emphasized the need for prompt implementation of genetic testing to ensure eligible patients receive timely access to the treatment.

This development marks a significant step forward in personalized cancer therapy, offering renewed hope to many women facing advanced breast cancer.