Not every decision is political

the FDA is considering dropping approval of the use of the drug Avastin for advanced cases of breat cancer. Avastin is principally used to treat colon cancer, but it was approved by the FDA to treat advanced breast cancer cases when studies indicated that it might extend life by 4-5 months. Two recent studies, however, indicate that it may not extend life by even a month. This is the basis on which the FDA says it is making the decision. Opponents claim that this is decision is based upon cast considerations only. After all, the cost of Avastin for 17,500 women is close to $180 million per year. Since the drup is not a cure, but only something that may extend life, these folks argue that the FDA is just looking for a cost cutting measure without consideration of the lives of these women.

This dispute seems to be a purely political one. If the studies show no real benefit from Avastin, there is no reason for its use. Even aside from the huge cost, there are the very real side effects that these women suffer from undergoing treatment. why put them through all that for no benefit. I want to repeal Obamacare as much as most, but this is not the way to attack it. We want and need the FDA to do its job without looking over its shoulder at the politicians. If the studies showing no benefit are valid, we want the FDA to take this off the market.