2023年9月1日

感謝南華早報特別在今日世界慢淋日刊登我們發表的文章，文章中我們提供了一些關鍵數字和資料，期望與CLL持份者携手，加强香港公共領域對CLL相關的教育和資訊，並且倡議儘快把治療慢性淋巴細胞白血病CLL重要的標靶藥物Venetoclax 列入醫院管理局藥物名冊(HADF)的安全網的自費藥物 (Self-financed item with Safety Net）。

文章全文：

Remember the chronic cancer patients in our midst¹

Every September 1 is World CLL Day. Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia, or CLL, is a chronic form of cancer that affects the blood and bone marrow and is generally incurable.

Some people can live with CLL for years, but over time most have to be treated. CLL tends to develop slowly but may worsen at a faster pace in some cases. While it is estimated that fewer than 100 Hongkongers are diagnosed with CLL every year, there seems to be an upward trend in recent years.

It is noteworthy that there is inadequate awareness and understanding of CLL in the local community. This can hinder timely diagnosis and access to effective treatment.

In a previous letter, I highlighted how Venetoclax, a targeted therapy for CLL, has been shown to significantly improve progression-free survival. Since then, Cypress Charitable Trust has been actively advocating for the reclassification of Venetoclax as a self-financed drug covered by the safety net in the Hospital Authority Drug Formulary.

On this World CLL Day, I wish to raise public awareness of CLL and the need for improved access to treatment options. Let’s ensure CLL patients and their families in Hong Kong receive the support they need.

Mike Cheung, trustee, Cypress Charitable Trust

¹ 受託人獲得南華早報同意特別為我們在2023年9月1日世界慢淋日發表，感謝 SCMP letters 和Foong Woei Wan。

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