AstraZeneca and Roche Sign Mou To Improve Breast Cancer Diagnostics

AstraZeneca Pharma India Ltd and Roche Diagnostics India signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to improve diagnostics for breast cancer patients, with a particular emphasis on simplifying HER2 diagnostics with contemporary breakthroughs in the field.

The initiative is focused on advancements in HER2 testing standardisation and reporting. As per the partnership, comprehensive training initiatives for pathologists and medical oncologists will be imparted. Training modules designed for oncologists will cover advances in HER-2 testing and HER-2 low interpretations, as per economic times.

Dr Anil Kukreja, Vice President, Medical Affairs and Regulatory, AstraZeneca India, said, “Our collaboration with Roche Diagnostics is a pivotal step, focusing on improving patient outcomes with emphasis on patient-centricity. We believe this strategic partnership contributes significantly towards creating an integrated healthcare ecosystem that strongly benefits the overall patient experience.”

Dr Rishubh Gupta, MD, Roche Diagnostics India and Neighbouring Markets, shared, “Targeting and treating HER2-low breast cancer, which represents at least 55 per cent of breast cancers globally, has been a challenge to the medical and scientific community. Earlier, metastatic breast cancer patients with a low level of HER2 status were considered to be part of the HER2-negative population and had no HER2-targeted treatment options. With this partnership, we bring hope to such patients and lead the way in HER2 diagnostics that supports the identification of patients who may benefit from HER2-targeted therapies.”

The cooperation intends to address existing diagnostic problems, shorten turnaround times, and improve overall patient experience, strengthening diagnostics' critical role in designing effective treatment regimens for metastatic breast cancer patients in India.