Cancer treatment must remain free and available

The dilemma facing patients suffering from the asbestos-related cancer mesothelioma deserves a higher profile in the current election. Through the public petitions committee, asbestos campaigners called on the Scottish Executive to ensure current prescribing arrangements for patients, under which the drug Alimta (a type of chemotherapy) is made available, continues in Scotland. Alimta can extend and improve the quality of life of mesothelioma patients. There is a responsibility to provide adequate medication for people who suffer from this disease, especially in view of the terrible pain many endure.