North Wales MS Mark Isherwood has questioned the Welsh Government over its Strategy for Cystic Fibrosis in Wales, highlighting the additional costs for those living with the condition.
In Cystic Fibrosis Week, Mr Isherwood raised the matter in yesterday’s Business Statement.
He said:
“I call for a Statement on the Welsh Government Strategy for Cystic Fibrosis in Wales. I'm sure you'll be aware that this week marks Cystic Fibrosis Week. Cystic Fibrosis is a progressive, genetic condition that primarily causes the lungs and digestive system to become clogged with mucus, and affects roughly 500 people across Wales. As well as affecting them physically and mentally, it also affects them financially. And according to a recent report conducted by the University of Bristol, the additional cost of living with Cystic Fibrosis is over £6,500 each year.
“Despite the current median age of death for someone with Cystic Fibrosis being tragically young, at just 38, this means that, over their lifetime, they will face roughly £0.25 million of extra costs. I therefore call for a Statement from the Welsh Government on its strategy both to speed up the development of new Cystic Fibrosis treatments, and to address the need for financial support for people living with Cystic Fibrosis.”
The Trefnydd, replied: “The Minister for Health and Social Services has made it very clear to Health Boards her expectations around that, and, obviously, new drugs that do come forward to help with this devastating disease are looked at on a case-by-case basis.”