Jobaaj Stories
A groundbreaking new treatment for asthma attacks, hailed as the first in 50 years, promises to significantly reduce the need for hospitalizations by 30%. However, its exorbitant cost could make it out of reach for most people, raising questions about accessibility. The treatment involves a subcutaneous injection of Benralizumab, which has shown to be more effective than traditional steroid tablets in managing flare-ups of asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).
Seventy-seven-year-old Geoffrey Pointing from Banbury, UK, is among the first to benefit from this novel therapy. Pointing, who suffered from COPD, reported significant improvement in his condition after receiving Benralizumab. "When you’re having a flare-up, it’s very difficult to tell anybody how you feel — you can hardly breathe. But on the injections, it’s fantastic," says Pointing, who was able to sleep better and carry on with his daily life without the usual side effects of steroids, such as sleeplessness.
Benralizumab works by targeting a specific protein in the immune system to reduce inflammation in the lungs, a common issue during asthma attacks. According to a recent study published in The Lancet Respiratory Medicine, the injection reduced hospitalizations by 30% during asthma and COPD flare-ups, offering hope to many who suffer from chronic respiratory conditions.
However, the main hurdle with this new treatment is its steep price. A single 30 mg dose of Benralizumab costs a staggering Rs 1.48 lakh in India. Dr. Sundeep Salvi, a member of the Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) scientific committee, pointed out that while the treatment shows promise, its high cost may limit its accessibility. "This huge cost can be afforded by very few people in India," Dr. Salvi commented.
While Benralizumab has shown significant results in clinical trials, a phase III trial will be necessary to confirm its efficacy and long-term usefulness. As the medical community awaits further results, the debate about its affordability continues. In a country like India, where asthma is a widespread issue, the treatment’s price tag could be a significant barrier for the majority of patients, despite its potential to improve lives.
The arrival of this new treatment marks an important milestone in asthma management, but the challenge of making it accessible to a broader population remains a pressing issue.
