Norman Ng, Director, Patient Advocacy and Public Affairs at Healthcare Thinkers, posted on LinkedIn:
“Cancer Treatment Revolution – Breakthroughs Soar, But Can We Afford the Future?
The landscape of cancer treatment is evolving dramatically, thanks to three key advancements: precision biology, explosive tech growth (AI, CRISPR) and smarter clinical trials using biomarkers. These innovations have not only led to a surge in FDA approvals but have also transformed cancer into a manageable chronic disease through therapies like immunotherapy and gene editing.
However, as we celebrate these breakthroughs, we face a critical challenge: the skyrocketing costs of patient care. With the rise of combination therapies that are essential to prevent resistance, healthcare systems globally are feeling the strain.
Innovative solutions like collaborative R and D, ‘basket trials’ testing drugs across cancers with common biomarkers, and AI-driven personalized treatment can help mitigate costs.
The future of cancer treatment hinges on finding a balance between groundbreaking innovations and their affordability. It is vital for pharma, governments, and clinicians to collaborate and ensure equitable access and sustainable strategies for all patients.”