AMSTERDAM, June 18, 2012 /PRNewswire/ --



The European Hematology Association (EHA), the American Society of Hematology (ASH), and the European Cancer Patient Coalition (ECPC) joined in issuing a common call to action in an effort to mitigate shortages of hematologic drugs in Europe, the United States and around the world. The collective made the announcement today following the EHA-ASH Joint Symposium at the 17th EHA Congress in Amsterdam which was dedicated to the drug shortage crisis.

The common call to action seeks first to raise awareness of shortages of drugs among hematologists. Shortages of drugs worldwide have particularly affected hematologists and their patients since the drugs most vulnerable to shortages are the ones used to treat life threatening blood disorders.

The international collaborative will also collect data on current drug shortages and report it to their health authorities. EHA, ASH, and ECPC will issue reports to their respective government authorities about current drug shortages in an effort to bolster the supply of critically needed drugs in the most efficient, effective manner.

Finally, the collaborative pledged to support legislation in the United States, Europe, and around the world that provides clear, effective interventions to alleviate drug shortages.

"In the United States, legislation is well under way that may curb drug shortages," said Ulrich Jäger, president of EHA, "but in Europe we do not even have a proper understanding of the scope of the problem. We must work together with our partners to raise awareness and protect the health of patients with blood disorders worldwide."

About the EHA Annual Congress

After 16 congresses and constantly increasing number of delegates, the 17th Congress of EHA was taking place in Amsterdam. Hematology is a specialty that covers everything to do with blood: its origin in the bone marrow, diseases (in the production) of blood and their treatments. The latest data on research and developments within the wide spectrum of hematology are presented.

About the European Hematology Association

EHA is an NGO that promotes excellence in clinical practice, research and education in European hematology. EHA is the representative of hematology and hematologists in Europe. Further information can be found at http://www.ehaweb.org

SOURCE European Hematology Association