Breast Cancer

In 2020, Breast cancer is the no.1 new cancer cases in Thai female with 22,158 new cases (22.8%)1
When detected early, breast cancer can be cured and the survival rate is as high as 95%.2 Self-examination, regular medical check-ups and routine mammograms are all valuable tools.2 Seventy percent of all breast cancers are found through self-examination and a mammogram can detect breast cancer up to two years before it is large enough to be felt.2

International guidelines on regular mammogram screening vary, but many countries recommend they be done either annually, every two years or every three years in woman aged between 45 and 74 years.3,4

ZBreast cancer awareness – illustration and symbol

Treatment of breast cancer aims to cure the disease or significantly prolong life, while ensuring good quality of life.5

Treatment may include surgery, radiotherapy2 and medications such as chemotherapy regimens, hormone therapy, immunotherapy and targeted therapy.6

Cancer survivors often face high out-of-pocket medical costs. These extra costs can prevent or delay access to important medical care.5 

One of the priorities in the National Cancer Strategic Framework for South Africa is to improve access to treatment by reducing financial, geographic, logistical and socio-cultural barriers.5

As part of our commitment to improve access and affordability to high-quality generic medications for breast cancer patients and providers, Sandoz South Africa is actively growing our breast cancer portfolio of products.7
 

References

  1. Globocan 2020. Thailand . International Agency for Research on Cancer. March 2021
  2. Department of Health, Republic of South Africa. Clinical Guidelines for Breast Cancer Control and Management. Apr 2018
  3. Breast Cancer Screening Guidelines for Women. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 22 Sep 2020
  4. European Guidelines for Breast Cancer Screening Differ from U.S. Recommendations. ACP Internist. 26 Nov 2019. Cited 5 Sep 2021. Available from:  https://acpinternist.org/weekly/archives/2019/11/26/4.htm
  5. Department of Health, Republic of South Africa. National Cancer Strategic Framework for South Africa 2017 – 2022
  6. Lince-Deroche N, van Rensburg C, Masuku S, et al. Breast Cancer in South Africa: Developing an Affordable and Achievable Plan to Improve Detection and Survival. South African Health Review. 2017;2017(1):181-188. doi:10.10520/EJC-c8497946c
  7. Sandoz SA (Pty) Ltd. Data on File. Sandoz Oncology. Closer to Solutions. 2021