30 June 2008
Barbara McLaughlan, RNIB Campaigns Manager, said: "We fully recognise the need for an appeals process and support the right of stakeholders to lodge appeals. RNIB, however, is concerned that further delays, to what has been one of the longest appraisals in NICE's history, will have a devastating impact on the lives of patients with wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
"Many patients will be at risk of irreversible blindness during this appeal, so we urge all Primary Care Trusts (PCTs) to fund sight-saving treatments immediately. By acting now, PCTs can end a national scandal that has seen many patients needlessly robbed of their sight.
"RNIB hopes a decision will be taken as quickly as possible. While NICE considers this appeal, the clock will continue to tick for patients with wet AMD who face a desperate battle to get NHS-funded treatment."
For further media information, or to interview an RNIB spokesperson, please contact Andrew Cooper, RNIB Press Office, on 020 7391 2290
Notes to editors
1. NICE will hear appeals from Pfizer, the manufacturer of anti-VEGF treatment Macugen (pegaptanib) and Derbyshire Primary Care Trust.
2. NICE's FAD, published on 2 April 2008, recommends Lucentis for the treatment of wet AMD if the eye to be treated has best-corrected visual acuity between 6/12 and 6/96. Grounds for appeal are: NICE has failed to act fairly and in accordance with the appraisal procedure; NICE has prepared guidance that is 'perverse' in light of evidence submitted; NICE has exceeded its powers. The FAD marks the final stage of the approval process before NICE issues final guidance
3. NICE are expected to publish a decision on the appeal on 21 July 2008.
4. Wet AMD is the leading cause of sight loss in the UK and can lead to blindness in as little as three months. People need prompt treatment if they are to minimise the risk of permanent sight loss.
5. Every day another 100 people will start to lose their sight. There are around two million people in the UK with sight problems. RNIB is the leading charity working in the UK offering practical support, advice and information for anyone with sight difficulties. If you, or someone you know, has a sight problem, RNIB can help. Call the RNIB Helpline on 0845 766 9999 or visit www.rnib.org.uk