The National Comprehensive Cancer Network ® (NCCN ® )-;a nonprofit alliance of leading cancer centers-;is publishing new results for its latest survey on cancer drug shortages in the United States. This follows data published one year ago, and six months ago, illustrating how up to 93% of centers surveyed were experiencing shortages of the crucial chemotherapy carboplatin at its peak. In June 2023, 70% of centers surveyed were also lacking adequate supply for cisplatin.
In the latest survey, only 11% of surveyed centers reported a shortage of carboplatin and 7% for cisplatin; but new concerns have emerged. Critical drug shortages were not a new problem last year and they continue to be a problem now. The dual carboplatin and cisplatin shortage was particularly severe, and we were able to help sound the alarm during its peak.
Despite a renewed attention to drug shortages over the past year, 89% of the responding centers in the latest survey are still reporting shortages of various important anti-cancer agents and supportive care medications. Most of them are still managing shortages for more than one type of medication right now. These shortages not only put a burden on patients, caregivers, and providers, but they could also delay vital clinical trials and slow the pace of progress for new cancer therapies.
" Crystal S. Denlinger, MD, Chief Executive Officer, NCCN According to the latest survey results-;fielded May 28 through June 11, 2024-;of the 28 responding centers, 57% .
