AN ASBESTOS victim from York has blasted "disgusting" plans to withdraw a treatment which has helped ease his condition.

The former carriageworks employee was given Alimta, the only effective treatment for the asbestos-related cancer mesothelioma.

"After six treatments I was told that the tumour had stabilised," said the man, who did not wish to be identified.

"I've now finished my treatment and I feel great. I think that withdrawing this treatment is terrible - disgusting.

"This is the only treatment for mesothelioma, and it's the only hope that I have."

His comments came as an independent appeal panel was yesterday (fri) considering an appeal against a decision by the National Institute of Health & Clinical Excellence (NICE) to withdraw Alimta. NICE issued preliminary guidelines earlier this year, indicating that although the drug was effective, the cost could not be justified.

Scores of former York Carriageworks employees have been struck down over the years by mesothelioma, caused by exposure to asbestos during their days at the Holgate Road factory. Former employees of other York factories have also fallen victim to the disease.

The York Asbestos Support Group has said that while mesothelioma is incurable, Alimta could improve life expectancy significantly and also boost patients' quality of life.

Spokeswoman Kim Daniells said the estimated cost of treating all suitable mesothelioma patients in the UK with Alimta was £3 million a year.

A NICE spokesman said that draft guidance published in June had not recommended Alimta's use, except as part of ongoing or new clinical trials which compared it with current best practice or other promising treatments.

He said the appeal would consider two representations from stakeholder organizations including healthcare professionals, and patient/carer advocacy groups.

He said the result of the appeal would not be known for four to six weeks, with yesterday's hearing essentially about presentation of the grounds for appeal by appellants.

"This, together with the evidence gathered during the Appeal Panel's questioning of the appellants and representatives of the Appraisal Committee, is considered by the Appeal Panel in a series of closed meetings."