Treatment is free and available to all patients with the disease.
Since 2011, the Unified Health System (SUS) has made the drug rituximabe available for the treatment of patients with large B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma. In 2013, the National Commission for Incorporation of Technologies in SUS – CONITEC expanded the use of the drug for the treatment of follicular non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
In 2014, the Ministry of Health published two Clinical Protocols and Therapeutic Directives (PCDT) with the purpose of guiding health professionals and non-diagnostic managers, treatment and/or aggravation of the health of two patients who were only affected by Diffuse Large B Cell Lymphoma. carriers of Follicular Lymphoma.
The documents are developed taking into consideration the best scientific evidence available, considering the efficiency, safety, effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of the technologies recommended by the Commission.
LYMPHOMA
The disease, which typically affects people over 65 years of age, also manifests itself in young people and children. According to the National Cancer Institute – INCA, Brazil must register 10,240 cases of non-Hodgkin lymphoma in 2016, with the highest incidence in our lives.
This causes the multiplication and accumulation of lymphocytes (many of them defective), mainly in the lymph nodes, causing pain, swelling and fever. The use of rituximabe attacks by destroying defective cells, thus increasing the survival of two patients.
National Technology Commission at SUS
Even two medications do not obey the regulations of the National Incorporation Commission (Conitec), which guarantees the protection of the city regarding the use and effectiveness of these medications. Since 2011, CONITEC was created through portal number 12,401 of April 28, and the Commission has incorporated more than 90 medications into the Brazilian health system.
To approve a new technology, the Commission requires documents and studies that demonstrate consolidated clinical evidence, effectiveness, safety and cost-effectiveness of the products. The process also includes the participation of society through public consultations.