The Cancer Alliance today publishes an important new study BREAST CANCER and HER2+ BREAST CANCER WITH A LOOK AT TRASTUZUMAB ACCESS IN SOUTH AFRICA.
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in South Africa. It is also the second highest cancer killer of our women. At least 1 in 27 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. Of these 26% will be diagnosed with HER2+ breast cancer. Adjuvant treatment (Treatment that is given in addition to the primary (initial) treatment to maximise its effectiveness) is provided in the form of trastuzumab.
To date only the originator trastuzumab Herceptin® and Herclon® are available in South Africa. The originator product Herceptin® is available in the private sector but remains unaffordable for the majority of women. Secondary patents for this medicine could block the entry of competitor products until 2026.
