On Friday the FDA reported additions to the drug shortage list of Carboplatin injection, an oncology drug. Manufacturers including TEVA and PFE's Hospira unit cite increased demand. Carboplatin joins Cisplatin, another oncology drug for which shortages were reported in February.
We have cited excess mortality from cancer since early 2021 with drivers unknown. Certainly the lack of health care foregone is a significant part of the acceleration. Only 14% of cancers are detected through screening. The rest are diagnosed as a result of an unrelated encounter with the health care system or because symptoms arise. No health care services, no detection.
Regardless of the cause, shortages are likely to drive up cost of care. It is also likely to keep PPLT elevated. Companies do not anticipate a restoration of supply until 3Q 2023.
Let me know what you think.
Emily Evans
Managing Director – Health Policy
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