Thousands of cancer patients across the United States are unable to access life-saving treatments and medicines due to chronic widespread shortages, according to recent data.
According to a U.S. Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs report (pdf) published in March, shortages of drugs—including those used to treat cancer, prescription medications, and even common over-the-counter treatments such as children’s cold and flu medicine—are increasing, lasting longer, and severely affecting patient care.
Between 2021 and 2022, new drug shortages increased by nearly 30 percent, according to the report. By the end of 2022, active drug shortages were at a record five-year high of 295….