European mapping of EGFR mutation test and EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors availability in thoracic oncology

Abstract

Background: EGFR mutation test is pivotal for lung cancer patient management. However availability of such test in routine practice in European (EU) countries in unknown. The aim of this study was to edit a map of EGFR test and drugs availability. Methods: This was a prospective expert opinion survey. An electronic questionnaire was addressed to thoracic oncology expert in each world countries using ERS and IASLC registries. Availability and cost of EGFR test and TKI was recorded by multiple-choice questionnaire. UN data were used for statistics. Results: 27 on 43 EU countries answered to the questionnaire, representing 85% of EU population according to UN data. Non-responding countries were mainly from Eastern Europe. EGFR testing was routinely available in the whole country in 24 countries (82% of the EU population), and available only in some region of the country in 3 with a significant difference according to human development index (HDI) categories. All were available in less than 1 month. EGFR mutation testing was free for 11 countries and 47% of the EU population. Erlotinib, Gefitinib and Afatinib were available for free in 40%, 60% and 15% of the EU population respectively with no significant difference regarding HDI categories. ![Figure][1] Conclusion: EGFR testing and TKI are routinely available in most of the EU population. Comparisons with other world regions will be available at meeting. [1]: pending:yes