WHO updates list of essential medicines for cancer, diabetes treatments

The World Health Organisation (WHO), on Friday, released updated editions of its Model Lists of Essential Medicines (EML) and Essential Medicines for Children (EMLc).

The lists now include new treatments for several cancers and for diabetes with comorbidities such as obesity.

Medicines for cystic fibrosis, psoriasis, haemophilia and blood-related disorders were also added.

The WHO EML and EMLc highlight medicines for priority health needs. Adopted in over 150 countries, they guide procurement, supply and health insurance reimbursement schemes.

This year’s revisions mark the 24th edition of the WHO EML and the 10th edition of the EMLc.

“The new editions of essential medicines lists mark a significant step toward expanding access to new medicines with proven clinical benefits,” said Dr Yukiko Nakatani.

The lists were first launched in 1977 to improve access to medicines in developing countries. They are now a trusted global policy tool for healthcare systems.

The WHO Expert Committee reviewed 59 applications, including 31 proposals for new medicines or medicine classes.

Consequently, 20 new medicines were added to the EML and 15 to the EMLc, with new use indications for seven existing products.

The updated lists now include 523 essential medicines for adults and 374 for children, reflecting the world’s most pressing public health needs.

Cancer is the world’s second leading cause of death, killing nearly 10 million people each year and causing one in three premature deaths from noncommunicable diseases.

Cancer treatments have been a major focus of the WHO EML for the past decade, with rigorous standards applied to medicine approvals.

In spite of many cancer drug approvals worldwide, only a few are listed, limited to therapies proven to extend life by at least four to six months.