AstraZeneca committed to tackling growing GI cancer burden in India

Bengaluru, December 07,  2023 :  Gastrointestinal (GI) cancers pose a significant burden on the healthcare systems around the world. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) forecasts a 58% surge in GI cancer cases by 2040 globally[1]. Additionally, a recent analysis conducted by the Indian Council of Medical Research’s National Centre for Disease Informatics and Research in Bengaluru revealed a significant prevalence of GI cancers, specifically affecting the oesophagus, stomach, gallbladder, rectum, and pancreas in various Indian regions[2]. At the ESMO Asia Congress 2023, AstraZeneca advances its ambition to redefine GI cancer care to Improve long term outcomes with new data findings. 

AstraZeneca is dedicated to working tirelessly with governments and key decision-makers to drive early diagnosis, screening and increase biomarker testing, ultimately transforming the quality of GI cancer care. Through partnerships, the company aims to bridge the care gap for patients around the world, ensuring equitable access to high-quality cancer care across Asia.

Highlights Phase-III studies of HIMALAYA and MATTERHORN, showcase first-of-its-kind innovative therapeutic options, particularly in the efficacy of immunotherapy combinations in treating advanced unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma and early Gastric Cancer. 

Dr. Anil Kukreja, Vice President – Medical Affairs and Regulatory, AstraZeneca India stated: “Our key data presented at ESMO Asia highlights AstraZeneca’s commitment to revolutionise the GI cancer treatment landscape, improve survival rate and transform outcomes for GI cancer patients. Our comprehensive and diverse pipeline is designed to overcome evasion of the anti-tumour immune response and harness the body’s immune system to fight cancer. As a pioneering leader in immunotherapies, we are determined to provide new treatment options and deliver innovative solutions that can make a meaningful impact on GI cancer patients in India.” 

Highlights from the HIMALAYA Phase III trial, show improved meaningful survival with an immunotherapy combination of durvalumab and tremelimumab in advanced and unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma.

Additional durvalumab data include results from the MATTERHORN Phase III trial, the combination of immunotherapy and chemotherapy demonstrates clinical benefit and addresses unmet needs in early Gastric cancer, where there is the greatest potential for cure. 

AstraZeneca is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of science to drive earlier cancer detection and screening programmes to transform patient outcomes across all stages of the disease.

Corporate Comm India (CCI Newswire)