Fast-tracked treatment aims to reduce complications for cancer patients with chronic graft versus host disease

Patients in England suffering from chronic graft versus host disease (cGVHD) following stem cell or bone marrow transplants will benefit from a newly approved NHS therapy. The condition, which affects around one in three individuals who have received transplants for blood cancers, arises when donor white blood cells attack the recipient’s organs, severely weakening the immune system and proving fatal in about 10% of cases.

The NHS is introducing Belumosudil (Rezurock), a once-daily tablet aimed at those unresponsive to at least two existing treatments, such as chemotherapy, targeted therapies like imatinib, or antibody options. Current therapies leave roughly half of patients without effective relief, making this new drug a crucial addition to the treatment arsenal.

Belumosudil works by inhibiting specific proteins that trigger harmful inflammatory responses linked to cGVHD, aiming to improve symptom control and daily quality of life. NHS England predicts approximately 200 patients will be treated with Belumosudil over the next three years.

James Palmer, medical director for specialised services at NHS England, emphasised the significance of this advancement: “This therapy represents a major step forward in managing symptoms for those affected by this debilitating condition.” The fast-tracked approval of the treatment promises better long-term outcomes for many patients.