21 8 月, 2021

New Horizon Health Announces 2021 Interim Results: Revenue Increases 317% Year-on-year, Gross Profit Margin Climbs to 56.2%

HANGZHOU, Aug 21, 2021 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - New Horizon Health (6606.HK) (the "Company"), the first public listed cancer screening company in China, has today announced its financial report for the first half year ended 30 June 2021.In the first half of 2021, the Company's total revenue was RMB43.9 million, a year-on-year increase of 317%. Gross profit was RMB24.7 million, up 1,000.2% from the same period of 2020. Gross profit margin also climbed from 21.3% in the same period of 2020 to 56.2%.ColoClear, the first and only molecular cancer screening test approved by National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) in China, realized revenue of RMB14.2 million in the first half of 2021, an increase of 149% year-on-year. Its shipment volume was about 121,500 units in the first half of the year, a rise of 392% over the same period last year, and its gross profit margin increased from 33.9% in the same period of 2020 to 56.6%. Pupu Tube, the first and only self-conducted fecal immunochemical test (FIT) screening product approved by NMPA in China, recorded revenue of RMB29.6 million in the first half of 2021, representing year-on-year growth of 623.7%. The product's gross profit margin also increased from 26.4% in the same period of 2020 to 59.0%.The latest report issued by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) predicts that new cases of breast cancer and colorectal cancer around the world will increase the most in the next 50 years. The penetration rate for colorectal cancer screening in China was only 16.4% in 2019, while that in the United States reached 60.1%. The social and economic value of early cancer screening has quickly received attention and recognition from various domestic sectors in 2021, and the market is entering the fast lane at full speed.Mr. Yeqing Zhu, Executive Director and CEO of New Horizon Health, said, "The year 2021 marks the first year for the regulation, innovation and evolution of China's early cancer screening industry. As progress relies on strength, New Horizon Health has just opened a new chapter of growth. The strong sales growth of ColoClear and Pupu Tube proves that home-based cancer screening tests have successfully gained recognition from target groups and addressed the urgent needs of consumers in upgrading their health. The improvement in gross profit margin was driven by the rapid and determined execution of our diversified commercial layout in the first half of the year, which significantly increased the average selling price of both products. The higher sales volume has also enabled more efficient management of our operating facilities, further reducing our unit operating cost."Mr. Zhu added, "The recognition from clinical experts and doctors is the cornerstone of our market expansion and product development. In January and April this year, the Company's proprietary multi-target stool-based FIT-DNA test technology was included within the first national 'Guidelines for Prevention and Treatment of Colorectal Cancer' and 'Chinese Society of Clinical Oncology (CSCO) Diagnosis and Treatment Guidelines' initiated by the National Cancer Center of China. The FIT-DNA test is the only molecular cancer screening and genetic testing technology presently included in national guidelines. Meanwhile, our marketing team has also expanded by 137% to 270 people in the first half of 2021. The launch of ColoClear to public hospitals across various provinces and cities has progressed smoothly. As a pioneer and leader in cancer screening in China, we are committed to investing in awareness and compliance education for cancer screening. Pupu Tube, an entry-level product for home-based self-testing for cancer detection costing less than RMB100 per unit, has become the vanguard of market education and sinking the vast grassroots. In the second half of the year, we will continue to build up our professional team structure and strengthen our cooperation and promotion with medical check-up centers, insurance organizations, online medical consultation platforms, pharmacies, and other authorized institutions. ColoClear will soon see an explosion of promotion".Continues to promote early cancer screening compliance advantages and build a diversified business presenceThe "First Certificate for Early Cancer Detection in China" approved by the NMPA of China on 9 November 2020 has set a benchmark for compliance in the cancer screening industry. Capitalizing on its advantageous position as the first cancer screening compliant company in China, after its successful listing in Hong Kong, New Horizon Health has quickly established in-depth strategic partnerships with leading brands across several sectors. Such cooperation accelerated the implementation of diversified business presence and promoted ColoClear and Pupu Tube to become the exclusive promotional products of various strategic cooperation platforms.The cooperation with AstraZeneca China has strongly supported the Company's expansion into China's digestive disease prevention and treatment sector and consolidated its advantages in the in-hospital clinical market. The partnership with JD Health has realized the in-depth alignment of the platforms of New Horizon Health and JD.com and the Company's user service system, an important step forward for its conducting e-commerce marketing. While the cooperation with Ping An Healthcare has enabled the first closed-loop solution integrating Internet medical and healthcare in China, marking a major advance from online diagnosis and treatment to cancer prevention and screening. The cooperation with China Post has filled the gap in intestinal screening, and cancer prevention and treatment in China's grassroots market while educating the user in the vast township market. The partnership with PICA Health has empowered three million village doctors to promote intestinal health and prevent intestinal diseases in remote rural areas with severe deficiencies of diagnosis and treatment resources and shortage of colonoscopy equipment.The only stool-based FIT test included in two medical guidelines and commercialized to clinical markets Hospital market access and clinician education are the keys to the promotional efforts to hospitals for New Horizon Health. The multi-target stool-based FIT-DNA testing technology developed by New Horizon Health has become the sole colorectal cancer screening and DNA test technology recommended by two medical guidelines in January and April 2021: The "China Guidelines for the Screening, Early Detection and Early Treatment of Colorectal Cancer" was compiled by the National Health Commission and published by the National Cancer Center; and the latest edition of the "Guideline for Diagnosis and Treatment of Colorectal Cancer" was published by the Chinese Society of Clinical Oncology (CSCO).With the implementation of colorectal cancer early screening standards and regulations, negative predictive value (NPV) and sensitivity have become the industry standards for the selection and performance evaluation of early cancer screening products. New Horizon Health's clinical team has aggressively conducted a series of academic seminars and clinical trials to continuously promote the multi-target stool-based FIT-DNA testing technology into the existing clinical segment and implement the technology into the practice and application of clinically-related fields. Striving its utmost to invest in popular science education for early cancer screening in multiple formats across platforms and in pursuit of continuous innovation As a leader in the early cancer screening industry, New Horizon Health has always adhered to spare relentless effort in investing in market education. In the first half of the year, New Horizon Health continued to promote early cancer screening education to the general public.On 15 April 2021, the Committee of Colorectal Cancer of the Chinese Anti-Cancer Association and the People's Daily Health App co-launched China's first-ever "Early Cancer Screening Day" during the "Nationwide Promotion Week for Popular Science Education on Oncology", making early cancer screening an important event in China's strategic public health campaign. Subsequently, New Horizon Health has organized its first branded health awareness day with the theme of "Changing Life Trajectory" inviting seven industry national clinical experts. The live streaming of the event recorded 5 million views. During the 618 Festival, New Horizon Health teamed with Kuaishou Health and Xiaohe Health to launch a popular science short video campaign featuring intestinal health, early screening, and cancer prevention. More than 80 million views were recorded by the two platforms. During the same period, New Horizon Health ranked No. 1 in industry sales in the DNA test category segment and in sales of a single product on JD.com as well as No. 1 in terms of spending in the healthcare product list on 18 June.R&D pipeline progresses as planned, while overseas cooperation and business expansion focuses on building future pipeline capacityThe approval of the UU Tube is progressing on schedule, and preparations for the kickoff of the clinical trial of CerviClear is proceeding smoothly. New Horizon Health is accelerating its R&D in multiple product pipelines, and has heavily invested in the development of biomarker R&D capability for, and the building of, the next-generation sequencing technology platform. The Company continues to make additional investments, expand automated production lines, and enhance production and testing capabilities to meet the fast-growing demand.Moreover, New Horizon Health has officially commenced overseas strategic cooperation, actively introducing advanced technologies and focusing on future new pipeline layout and capacity expansion. The listed company New Horizon Health contributed US$30 million to the establishment of NHH Venture Fund, L.P. Fundraising for the first phase of the Fund was completed on 20 August 2021. The Fund is to focus on investing in molecular diagnostic technology to promote disease screening and early testing for cancer and other serious diseases. In July 2021, New Horizon Health and Proteomedix have forged a partnership for R&D cooperation and investment in its convertible debt. In addition, in August 2021, New Horizon Health and Epigenomics AG have signed an asset purchase agreement.About New Horizon Health Founded in 2015, New Horizon Health is the pioneer and market leader in China's cancer screening sector focusing on early detection of high-incidence cancers at home. It aims to promote innovation in cancer screening technology and expedite the widespread take-up of cancer screening technology in China. On 18 February, 2021, New Horizon Health was successfully listed on the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong under the stock code of 6606.HK, becoming the "first cancer screening stock in China".New Horizon Health's two colorectal cancer screening products, ColoClear and Pupu Tube have been approved by the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) and have commercialized. ColoClear is the first and only cancer screening product approved by the NMPA in China. In addition, the Company also has two pipeline candidates for gastric and cervical cancer screening respectively. The Company holds global rights in all its marketed and pipeline products. New Horizon Health has a 100,000-grade clean production workshop accredited with ISO13485 international certification, and third-party medical laboratories in Beijing, Hangzhou and Guangzhou, that are certified and licensed to practice by the local Health Care Commission, with an annual testing capacity of 2 million samples, and extensive cooperation with hundreds of hospitals, medical check-up centers, insurance companies, pharmacies and online channels. Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

19 8 月, 2021

Singapore to add 33 expensive cancer drugs to list of subsidised high-cost drugs

SINGAPORE - In a year, Singapore will add 33 high-cost cancer drugs to the Medication Assistance Fund (MAF), which subsidises expensive drugs that have been deemed clinically necessary. This means people who have trouble paying for such drugs could get them at up to 75 per cent off, depending on their per capita household income. There are currently only six cancer drugs on this list. "Most patented cancer drugs are not subsidised today as they are not cost-effective at current prices," said the Ministry of Health (MOH) in response to queries from The Straits Times. It added that another 22 cancer drugs will be added to the Standard Drug List (SDL), which subsidises cheaper medications. This makes for a total of 70 cancer drugs on the SDL and 39 on the MAF by September next year. The ministry's decision to add these drugs to the list comes as part of its latest review of cancer treatment in Singapore. This review will see changes to claim limits under MediShield Life, with more cancer treatments subsidised even as MOH works to negotiate lower prices for cancer drugs. Pharmaceutical companies typically charge Singapore more for cancer drugs as compared to other developed countries such as South Korea and Australia. For instance, Singapore pays more for tyrosine kinase inhibitors for treating lung, liver and thyroid cancer, as well as anti-androgens for treating prostate cancer. These can cost 1.5 to two times what other countries pay, the ministry said. The ministry has attributed this cost difference to the $3,000 claim limit that is applied to all types of cancer drugs. Knowing that treatment will be covered by the national health insurance programme up to this limit gives pharmaceutical companies little or no reason to lower their prices. With the changes, 90 per cent of subsidised cancer patients will be able to have their outpatient treatments fully paid by insurance and MediSave - up from 70 per cent today. MOH said its negotiations with drug manufacturers are ongoing and have covered about two-thirds of cancer drug treatments so far. "Following continued value-based pricing negotiations, we have narrowed the price gap with overseas reference countries, and in some instances secured even more competitive drug prices." More on this topic Related Story MediShield Life coverage enhanced for cancer treatment; to cover drug bills of nearly 90% of subsidised patients Related Story Why S'pore spends so much on cancer treatment and how MediShield Life changes aim to tackle this

6 7 月, 2021

ACT Genomics Completes Acquisition of MC Diagnostics

HONG KONG, Jul 6, 2021 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - ACT Genomics Co. Ltd. ("ACT Genomics" or "the Group") has completed the acquisition of MC Diagnostics Ltd. ("MCD"), a specialist molecular diagnostic company based in the United Kingdom, which marks the Group's entry into the European precision medicine market.MCD machine in operationFounded in 2006, MCD provides expertise in the automation of multiplexed molecular assays as well as custom-designed image analysis and interpretation software. MCD has designed, developed and manufactured an automated low density array platform ("ALDAS"), which is currently providing proven clinical diagnostic assays in the fields of HLA typing and blood group diagnostics. Revolutionary Breakthrough in Genechip TechnologyEffective and affordable cancer diagnostics testing tools with quick turnaround time and high sensitivity have always been sought after in the market. As a company at the forefront of Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) molecular diagnostics in the field of oncology, ACT Genomics has partnered with MCD to develop fusion genechips on its ALDAS platform, which has recently yielded a notable breakthrough. Tests can now be easily and automatically performed at the point of care to achieve a result that is very close to that obtained by NGS. The first genechip - ACTSpot NTRK - will be launched in August 2021.A New Chapter for ACT Genomics ACT Genomics is an NGS-based assays specialist and a pioneer in oncology molecular diagnostics in Asia. The creation of this union with MCD not only secures the global pioneering position of ACT Genomics in the development and applications of genechips, but also reflects the Group's strategy to embrace new and exciting growth opportunities through diversification and globalization.Mr. Peter Maguire, Chief Executive Officer of MCD said, "Scientists at MCD are experts in transplant diagnostics, pcr-based diagnostic tests, microarray fabrication, robotics and automation, as well as software engineering. We are heavily focused on field application and have successfully optimized our manufacturing, assay and automation processes. The ALDAS system offers maximum flexibility as its 8-well strip array allows any throughput from 1 to 96 samples per run and the turnaround time is only 3 hours from sample extraction to report. I am excited to ally with ACT Genomics to bring our knowledge and experience to Asia." Mr. Hua Chien Chen, Chief Executive Officer of ACT Genomics said, "With a vision to transform genomic information into action for the benefit of cancer patients, we at ACT Genomics are dedicated to develop innovative and effective products that can cover a broader spectrum of patient needs. Working hand-in-hand with MCD has brought us to the frontier of genechip technology and we are excited to have already accomplished a promising breakthrough. We look forward to continue our close relationship with the experts at MCD to perfect the ALDAS system and develop additional practical products that exploit this cutting-edge platform for the well-being of cancer patients and also the general public at large."About ACT Genomics Holdings Co., LtdACT Genomics is an innovation-driven cancer solution provider in Asia with offices in Taipei, Hong Kong, Singapore and Tokyo. After setting up our laboratories in Taiwan and Japan, we opened our third laboratory in Asia at Hong Kong Science Park in July 2019. With our Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology, CAP-accredited laboratories, experienced bioinformatics team and proprietary AI algorithms, we provide optimal cancer treatment planning, immunotherapy evaluation, cancer relapse & drug resistance monitoring, as well as cancer risk assessment services to medical professionals. Our team is specialized in biomarker identification, underlying disease mechanism discovery and genetic alteration exploration. Pharmaceutical communities are also able to benefit from our expertise in identifying targets for drug development, stratifying patients for clinical studies, and delineating drug responses with efficiency and efficacy. We also participate in various international precision medicine biomarker programs, such as the TMB and HRD Harmonization Programs led by FOCR in the United States. Together, we "Turn Genomics into Action".For further information, please contact:Strategic Financial Relations LimitedAngelus Lau Tel: (852) 2864 4805 Email: angelus.lau@sprg.com.hk Karen Kwan Tel: (852) 2114 4171 Email: karen.kwan@sprg.com.hk Doris Ho Tel: (852) 2114 4916 Email: doris.ho@sprg.com.hk Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

14 5 月, 2021

Eisai and National Cancer Center Commence Joint Research and Development Project

TOKYO, May 14, 2021 - (JCN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - Eisai Co., Ltd. and the National Cancer Center Japan announced today that both parties have entered into a joint research and development (R&D) agreement concerning "Basic research on the drug discovery and development to accelerate development of anticancer drugs in treatment of patients with rare cancers and refractory cancers", and that research activities have commenced. This R&D project is to be carried out with funding under the program "Cyclic Innovation for Clinical Empowerment (CiCLE)" established by the Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development (AMED). Rare cancer is a disease for which it is difficult for pharmaceutical companies to develop new drugs solo due to the extremely small number of patients, and there are only a limited number of drugs for rare cancers that can be approved for manufacturing and marketing. Also, among certain types of cancer with a large number of patients, refractory cancers, for which standard treatment has not been established, face barriers to creating new drugs due to difficulty of research and development. In order to promptly deliver effective treatments to patients with rare or refractory cancers, it is essential to provide predictability of clinical outcomes with high accuracy and efficiency in non-clinical research that confirms in advance the effectiveness of the drug, to transfer seamlessly non-clinical research to clinical studies, and moreover to elucidate the mechanism of drug resistance, actual therapeutic effects and side effects. Both parties aim to realize these capabilities in this R&D project using Patient-Derived Xenografts (PDX) library, a model in which cancer tissue derived from patients is transplanted into immunodeficient mice with high predictability of clinical outcomes, as well as cancer genome data. Eisai is advancing the research and development of new anticancer drugs, targeting cancer genomics and the tumor microenvironment, with its experience and knowledge from globally approved in-house discovered compounds: microtubule dynamics inhibitor eribulin mesylate (product name: Halaven) and multiple receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor lenvatinib mesylate (product names: Lenvima). The National Cancer Center is a leading institution in basic research, epidemiological research, and clinical studies for all cancer types including rare cancers in Japan. As of May 2020, with a grant from AMED CiCLE, the National Cancer Center has established a large-scale PDX library,"J-PDX", derived from Japanese cancer patients with information on clinical outcomes, and has also completed the development of research infrastructure and framework. More than 410 types of PDX, including rare cancers and refractory cancers, have already been established in J-PDX (as of March 2021). In research and development under the agreement, Eisai and the National Cancer Center will jointly conduct tumor-agnostic non-clinical research on new drug candidates created by Eisai, using J-PDX with relevant clinical and biological information, and will determine the drugs and the target cancer types to be transferred to clinical studies. After that, investigator-initiated studies will be conducted for rare cancers and refractory cancers in order to confirm clinical benefits of these new drugs, with the aim to apply for approval of them. Further, both parties will consider expanding into new drug discovery research, with establishment of PDX with tumor tissues taken from patients before and after treatment, comparative analyses of drug responsiveness and cancer genome, as well as search for new drug discovery targets and elucidation of drug resistance mechanisms. Through these efforts, both parties aim to establish a drug discovery and development research system that accelerates the development of new anticancer drugs in Japan. Through research and development based on the agreement, Eisai and the National Cancer Center will work to develop therapeutic drugs for rare cancers and refractory cancers with high unmet medical needs, thereby aiming to make continuous efforts to meet the diversified needs of and increase the benefits provided to patients with cancer, their families, and healthcare professionals. Copyright 2021 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

23 4 月, 2021

Eisai: Application Submitted for Additional Indication of Anti Cancer Agent Lenvima in Combination With Keytruda as a Treatment for Advanced Uterine Body Cancer in Japan

TOKYO, Apr 23, 2021 - (JCN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - Eisai Co., Ltd. and MSD K.K., a subsidiary of Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, N.J., U.S.A., (known as MSD outside the United States and Canada) announced today an application submission in Japan for the additional indication of Eisai's in-house discovered and developed multiple receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor, LENVIMA (generic name: lenvatinib mesylate), in combination with Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, N.J., U.S.A.'s KEYTRUDA (generic name: pembrolizumab) as a treatment for patients with advanced uterine body cancer.This application is based on the results of the pivotal Phase 3 Study 309/KEYNOTE-775 for the treatment of patients with advanced endometrial carcinoma (advanced uterine body cancer in Japan), following at least one prior platinum-based regimen, which were presented at the Society of Gynecologic Oncology (SGO) 2021 Annual Meeting on Women's Cancer in March 2021. In this trial, LENVIMA plus KEYTRUDA demonstrated a statistically significant and clinically meaningful improvement in the primary endpoints of Progression-Free Survival (PFS) and Overall Survival (OS) as well as the secondary endpoint of Objective Response Rate (ORR) versus chemotherapy (treatment of physician's choice of doxorubicin or paclitaxel). The safety profile of LENVIMA plus KEYTRUDA was consistent with previously reported studies.LENVIMA plus KEYTRUDA has received orphan drug designation for a prospective indication for uterine body cancer by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, Japan (MHLW). Under this system, this application will be subject to priority review.It is estimated that there were more than 417,000 new cases of uterine body cancer diagnosed worldwide and nearly 97,000 deaths from the disease in 2020. In Japan, there were more than 17,000 new cases and more than 3,000 deaths in 2020. Endometrial carcinoma is the most common type of uterine body cancer. It is considered that more than 90% of uterine body cancers occur in the endometrium. Survival is highly dependent on the stage at diagnosis, and with a five-year survival rate of 17% for metastatic disease, the prognosis for these patients is poor.Eisai and MSD have been collaborating through the provision of information on LENVIMA in Japan since October 2018, and will work together to expedite the maximization of contribution by the LENVIMA plus KEYTRUDA combination therapy to patients with cancer. For more information, visit https://www.eisai.com/news/2021/news202131.html. Copyright 2021 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

8 4 月, 2021

Ask the Doc: Will eating soy increase my risk of breast cancer?

What are some symptoms of gynaecologic cancers that women should not ignore? Most gynaecological cancers present with abnormal vaginal bleeding such as intermenstrual bleeding, bleeding after sex, or postmenopausal bleeding. Keep a lookout for vaginal discharge that may range from pink, watery and bloody to thick, brown and foul-smelling. Additionally, symptoms can include pain in the lower abdomen, abdominal swelling or bloating. The uterus, cervix and ovaries are near the bladder and rectum, so cancers can also present with changes in bladder and bowel habits. Other symptoms may include nausea, loss of appetite, loss of weight, fatigue, and feeling full soon after consuming a meal. Has Stage-4 metastatic breast cancer survival improved in recent years? Stage-4 metastatic breast cancer is not curable, but very treatable. Survival rates and quality of life of patients have greatly improved with the availability of new treatment options. The five-year survival of metastatic breast cancer is now about 25 per cent (in other words, 25 per cent of all metastatic breast cancer patients can live up to five years). It is important to check for molecular signatures on breast cancer cells, which can help guide targeted therapy options for treatment. My longest survivor is well eight years on; she has had two targeted therapy and chemotherapy journeys. There are also patients whose conditions are also very well controlled around three to four years on targeted hormonal therapy. Is it true that a high consumption of soy leads to an increased risk for breast cancer? No. Soy contains isoflavones, a plant-based chemical similar only in structure to oestrogen. High levels of human oestrogen have been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer, but studies have shown that eating a moderate amount of soy food (one to two servings a day) does not increase the risk of breast cancer. Ovarian and endometrial cancers are often associated with obesity, or instances when the body has experienced more hormonal exposure. PHOTO: GETTY IMAGES If women in my family have no history of gynaecological cancers, does it mean I am not at risk? No. Besides family history which may suggest an inherited cause of cancer, many other factors can cause gynaecological cancers. Up to 99 per cent of cervical cancers are caused by the human papillomavirus virus (HPV). At the same time, ovarian and endometrial cancers are often associated with obesity, or instances when the body has experienced more hormonal exposure (have few or no children, early menstruation or late menopause, irregular ovulation patterns in conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome, some hormone replacement therapy). Why are sexually active women more at risk for cervical cancer? Up to 99 per cent of cervical cancer is caused by HPV, a sexually transmitted infection. Sexual activity exposes an individual to it, and this risk is further increased if a woman has multiple sexual partners, or partners who have other partners. Women who have had unprotected sexual intercourse at an early age are also at risk because cervix changes due to infection during this time are more vulnerable to damage. Does menopause affect a woman's cancer risk? The risk of developing cancer increases with age. Menopause does not cause cancer, but because it occurs when women are older, there is an increased risk of developing cancer. Late menopause also suggests that the body has been exposed to more oestrogen, which can increase the risk of breast, ovarian and uterus cancer. Look out for the next instalment of this series on 15 Apr 2021, where our doctor will answer questions relating to blood cancers. Submit your question by clicking on the ad above or here, and it could be featured.

5 4 月, 2021

New chemotherapy option for patients with late-stage cancers

SINGAPORE - A targeted method of administering chemotherapy drugs to patients with colon, gastric and ovarian cancers could potentially bring hope to those who are in the late stages of their ailment. The Pressurised Intraperitoneal Aerosol Chemotherapy (Pipac) method distributes drugs in aerosol form - through a device called a port - directly into the abdomen via a catheter. The technique, which has fewer side effects compared with conventional chemotherapy, has been successfully introduced at the National University Hospital (NUH) and National University Cancer Institute, Singapore (NCIS). Professor Jimmy So, head and senior consultant with NUH's division of general surgery (upper gastrointestinal surgery), has been using the method with Dr Yong Wei Peng since December 2016. The latter is a senior consultant with the department of haematology-oncology at NCIS. A total of 49 Pipac procedures have been administered to 31 patients so far, with the majority afflicted with gastric or colorectal cancer. Around 60 per cent of patients saw their tumours shrink in size. But for many, the cancer had already spread to other organs, and they were unresponsive to the treatment, especially since they were in the late or final stages of the disease, noted Prof So. There were two cases of mild pancreatitis among the patients but no deaths. Prof So said at the advanced stage, the cancer often spreads to the peritoneal cavity, which is a space within the abdomen that contains organs such as the stomach and liver. This tends to produce excess fluid in the abdomen, causing significant bloating and intestinal obstruction, which can be extremely uncomfortable for the patient. The Pipac method sees the chemotherapy solution converted into fine aerosol droplets before they are distributed more evenly in the peritoneum cavity and more deeply into the cancer cells. "Smaller amounts of the chemotherapy drug can be administered since it directly targets the affected area, which means that very little of it will be absorbed into the bloodstream, thus reducing the side effects," said Prof So. On average, around 3,000 new patients are diagnosed with the three cancers each year, with around 30 per cent showing spread to the peritoneal cavity. The three cancers are among the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in Singapore. More on this topic Related Story Researchers use AI to identify the pH of cancer cells Related Story S'pore scientists find a new way to improve treatment outcomes for breast cancer The Pipac method is performed as a short and minimally invasive keyhole procedure. The chemotherapy is administered as fine air droplets by a micro-pump into the peritoneal cavity under gentle pressure for around 30 minutes. The procedure is done under general anaesthesia, with continuous real-time video monitoring within the abdomen. Ideally, the patients should undergo at least three rounds of treatment to see effective results, said Dr Yong. "Pipac is well-tolerated and tumour regression was observed in patients receiving at least two Pipac procedures. "The encouraging result has led to the development of Pipac with immunotherapy in a new study," he added. NUH is currently leading a new international clinical trial which combines the Pipac treatment with immunotherapy for stomach cancer patients who have had the ailment spread to their peritoneum. Prof So hopes that the trial could soon be extended to patients who are at an earlier stage of cancer so that the treatment could be more effective for them. He noted that some international trials - which involved patients with early stage cancers - had seen a clinical response rate of up to 80 or 90 per cent. Currently, NUH is the main training centre for Pipac procedures in Asia, transferring the skills to more than 140 clinicians from 28 countries around the world. More on this topic Related Story Cancer patients' Covid-19 dilemma: To jab or not to jab

12 3 月, 2021

Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare Grants Orphan Drug Designation in Japan to Anti-Cancer Agent Lenvima (Lenvatinib) With Prospective Indication for Uterine Body Cancer

TOKYO, Mar 12, 2021 - (JCN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - Eisai Co., Ltd. announced today that it has received orphan drug designation for LENVIMA (generic name: lenvatinib mesylate), the orally available multiple receptor kinase inhibitor discovered by Eisai, with a prospective indication for uterine body cancer, by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW).In Japan, the estimated number of patients with uterine body cancer is approximately 30,000.1 It is estimated that in 2020, there were more than 17,000 new cases of uterine body cancer and more than 3,000 deaths from the disease.2 It is considered that more than 90% of uterine body cancers occur in the endometrium.3The pivotal Phase 3 Study 309/KEYNOTE-775 evaluated LENVIMA in combination with KEYTRUDA (generic name: pembrolizumab) in patients with advanced endometrial cancer (advanced uterine body cancer in Japan), following at least one prior platinum-based regimen in Japan, the United States, Europe and other countries. In this study, LENVIMA plus KEYTRUDA met its dual primary endpoints, overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS), as well as its secondary efficacy endpoint of objective response rate (ORR). Currently, Eisai is preparing to submit an application for additional indications based on these results in various countries around the world including Japan.In March 2018, Eisai and Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, N.J., U.S.A., through an affiliate, entered into a strategic collaboration for the worldwide co-development and co-commercialization of LENVIMA.Eisai positions oncology as a key therapeutic area and is aiming to discover innovative new medicines with the potential to cure cancer. Eisai is committed to expanding the potential clinical benefits of LENVIMA for cancer treatment, as it seeks to contribute addressing the diverse needs of, and increasing the benefits provided to, patients with cancer and their families.Media Inquiries:Public Relations Department,Eisai Co., Ltd.+81-(0)3-3817-5120 Copyright 2021 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

8 3 月, 2021

NEC Joins the CONNECT Landmark Public-private Initiative for Precision Cancer Medicine

TOKYO, Mar 8, 2021 - (JCN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - NEC Corporation (TSE: 6701) today announced that it has joined a landmark public-private initiative, the Norwegian Precision Cancer Medicine Implementation Consortium (CONNECT), a collaboration between 22 key public and private partners for promoting precision cancer medicine. CONNECT is one of four interconnected initiatives in Norway that will ensure infrastructure and collaboration on diagnostics, clinical trials, implementation of advanced precision medicine and use of health data, e.g., for health economics analysis. By joining the network of this Norwegian consortium and leveraging advanced real-world data, NEC hopes to reinforce and accelerate its personalized cancer immunotherapy activities. While more than 30,000 Norwegians are diagnosed with cancer every year, and the incidence is still increasing, more precise treatments can save lives. CONNECT is a new initiative aiming to ensure that precision medicine reaches the patients. "A serious cancer disease is an existential challenge for the individual. Cancer research gives hope. The pharmaceutical industry and the public health sector, clinicians and executive authorities, have to collaborate to offer new treatments, balancing the latest research with hospital operations," says Asmund Flobak, Oncologist at St Olav's Hospital, Trondheim University Hospital. The new initiative is a direct response to Health Minister Bent Hoie's political guidance to accelerate the implementation of precision medicine for Norwegian patients. It also responds to the Health Minister's ambition to increase research and collaboration between public and private actors, including hospitals, other public stakeholders, the Norwegian Cancer Society, and the pharmaceutical industry.CONNECT Founding Partners:- Akershus universitetssykehus HF- Helse Bergen HF- Helse Stavanger HF- St. Olavs hospital HF- Universitetssykehuset Nord-Norge HF- Oslo Universitetssykehus med Kreftregisteret og OUH Comprehensive Cancer Center- Folkehelseinstituttet- Oslo Cancer Cluster SA- Kreftforeningen- Legemiddelindustrien- Roche Norge AS- Bristol-Myers Squibb Norway Ltd NUF- Novartis Norge AS- Merck AB NUF- Takeda AS- Amgen AB Norge NUF- AstraZeneca AS- AbbVie AS- Bayer AS- PubGene AS- Pfizer Norge AS- NEC CorporationFor more information:- Oslo Cancer Cluster: bit.ly/3qzl40N- NEC's Drug Discovery Business: https://www.nec.com/en/global/solutions/healthtech/About NEC CorporationNEC Corporation has established itself as a leader in the integration of IT and network technologies while promoting the brand statement of "Orchestrating a brighter world." NEC enables businesses and communities to adapt to rapid changes taking place in both society and the market as it provides for the social values of safety, security, fairness and efficiency to promote a more sustainable world where everyone has the chance to reach their full potential. For more information, visit NEC at https://www.nec.com. Copyright 2021 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

22 2 月, 2021

Eisai: MHLW Grants Orphan Drug Designation in Japan to Novel FGF Receptor Selective Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor E7090

TOKYO, Feb 22, 2021 - (JCN Newswire) - Eisai Co., Ltd. announced today that it has received orphan drug designation for a prospective indication for unresectable biliary tract cancer with FGFR2 gene fusion by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, Japan (MHLW) for its in-house discovered fibroblast growth factor (FGF) receptor (FGFR1, FGFR2, FGFR3) selective tyrosine kinase inhibitor E7090, which is currently under development as an orally available novel anti-cancer agent.FGFRs with genetic aberrations are known to play an important role in the proliferation, survival and migration of cancer cells as well as tumor angiogenesis and drug resistance. These genetic aberrations in FGFRs have been observed in various types of cancers, therefore, there is growing interest in FGFRs as a promising target for cancer therapy. By selectively inhibiting FGFR1, 2 and 3, and blocking those signals, E7090 has the potential to become a new molecular targeted therapy for cancers with FGFR genetic aberrations.In Japan, a Phase I clinical trial of E7090 was conducted, and E7090 has been designated as the target drug for the SAKIGAKE Designation System of the MHLW for the treatment of unresectable biliary tract cancer. Currently, a Phase II clinical trial (Study 201) of E7090 is underway in patients with cholangiocarcinoma with FGFR2 gene fusion in Japan and China.Eisai positions oncology as a key therapeutic area and is aiming to discover innovative new medicines with the potential to cure cancer. Eisai is committed to exploring the potential clinical benefits of E7090 for cancer treatment, as it seeks to contribute further to addressing the diverse needs of, and increasing the benefits provided to, patients with cancer and their families.1. About E7090Discovered in-house by Eisai's Tsukuba Research Laboratories, E7090 is an orally available novel tyrosine kinase inhibitor that demonstrates selective inhibitory activity against fibroblast growth factor receptors (FGFR) FGFR1, FGFR2 and FGFR3. Distinct from prior known FGFR inhibitors, E7090 has a basic structure which lacks the dimethoxyphenyl moiety, and in a kinetic interaction analysis study, it was observed that E7090 demonstrates antitumor effects due to inhibition of kinase activity with a binding mode (Type V) that exhibits rapid and potent binding as well as high selectivity to FGFR.(1)A Phase II clinical trial (Study 201) of E7090 is underway in Japan and China to evaluate efficacy and safety in patients with cholangiocarcinoma with FGFR2 gene fusion. A Phase I clinical trial of E7090 is also underway in Japan in patients with estrogen receptor-positive and HER2-negative breast cancer.2. About Biliary Tract Cancer with FGFR2 Gene FusionThe five-year survival rate for biliary tract cancer is approximately 20%, which makes it an intractable cancer with the second worst prognosis following pancreatic cancer.(2) Drug therapy options are limited in comparison with other cancers, and as such it is a disease with significant unmet medical needs. The estimated number of patients with biliary tract cancer is approximately 32,000 in Japan.(3),(4),(5) FGFR2 gene fusion is observed in approximately 14% of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma, which account for 15-30% of biliary tract cancers.(6)3. Orphan Drug Designation System in JapanThe orphan drug designation system in Japan aims to support the development of drugs for diseases for which the number of patients is small and research and development is not progressing, despite high unmet medical need. As the requirement for designation based on Article 77-2 of the Pharmaceutical and Medical Device Act (PMD Act) of Japan, a drug must meet the following conditions in order to be considered for orphan drug designation in Japan: the number of people expected to use the drug for its intended use is less than 50,000 people in Japan; there is no suitable alternative drug or treatments in Japan, or the proposed drug is expected to be significantly more effective or safer than drugs already available on the Japanese market; and there is a scientific rationale to support the necessity of the drug for the target disease, and the development plan for the drug is appropriate. Specific measures to support the development of orphan drugs include giving prioritized consultation regarding clinical development and conducting priority examinations, reducing application fees, extending registration validity period, granting subsidies for research and development expenditures, and tax incentives.(1) Watanabe Miyano S. et al., "E7090, a Novel Selective Inhibitor of Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptors, Displays Potent Antitumor Activity and Prolongs Survival in Preclinical Models", Molecular Cancer Therapeutics, 2016, 15(11), 2630-2639.(2) Latest statistics, Cancer Information Service, National Cancer Center, Japan.(3) Official Statics of Japan (e-Stat), 2017 Patient Survey https://www.e-stat.go.jp/(New Window)(4) The 21st Follow-up Survey Reports for Primary Liver Cancer Cases in Japan (2010-2011), 2020.(5) Shin Ishihara. et al., "Biliary tract cancer registry in Japan from 2008 to 2013", J Hepatobiliary Pancreat Sci., 2016, 23, 149-157.(6) Arai Y. et al., "Fibroblast growth factor receptor 2 tyrosine kinase fusions define a unique molecular subtype of cholangiocarcinoma", Hepatology, 2014, 59, 1427-1434.Media Inquiries:Public Relations Department,Eisai Co., Ltd.+81-(0)3-3817-5120 Copyright 2021 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

4 2 月, 2021

Olympus Supports Dissemination of Endoscopic Procedures for Colorectal Cancer in Russia

TOKYO, Feb 4, 2021 - (ACN Newswire) - Olympus Corporation (Director, Representative Executive Officer, President and CEO: Yasuo Takeuchi) announced today that it has been selected(1) by Japan's Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) to implement the Japan-Russia Medical Cooperation Promotion Project in the field of endoscopy for the fiscal year ending March, 2021. Under the project, Olympus will promulgate gastrointestinal endoscopic/laparoscopic techniques in support of a five-year oncology plan launched by the Russian government in 2019.(2)As part of the project, Olympus will facilitate online training programs for gastrointestinal endoscopic/laparoscopic techniques taught by Japanese oncology specialists for Russian endoscopists and oncologists. The bilateral project is being carried out in cooperation with Russia's two premier cancer centers, the N. N. Blokhin Cancer Research Center and the P. Hertsen Moscow Oncology Research Institute branch of the Russian National Medical Research Radiological Centre (NMRRC) as well as Asian Medical Education and Training Support (AMETS).(3) As part of the project's initiatives, Olympus commits to disseminate Japan's world-leading technologies for early diagnosis and treatment in Russia, contributing to the improvement of oncology treatment and research in the region.Objectives of the MHLW's Japan-Russia Medical Cooperation Promotion Project in the Field of Endoscopy (April 2020 - March 2021):1. To help advance the Russian government's oncology plan by implementing cancer educational activities for facilities and doctors specializing in that branch of medicine. These activities will take place primarily at Russia's two premier cancer centers, the N. N. Blokhin Cancer Research Center and the P. Hertsen Moscow Oncology Research Institute within the NMRRC.2. To provide opportunities for training and knowledge sharing on the latest medical technologies by Japanese physicians, contributing to the improvement of gastrointestinal cancer measures, from diagnosis to treatment, particularly for colorectal cancer.Program activities were unveiled at the Japan-Russia Symposium on Colorectal Cancer Management and at the Signing Ceremony of the Memorandum of Cooperation among AMETS and the two Russian cancer centers, which were held on January 19. The signing ceremony was attended by Japanese and Russian government officials, including Mr. Sergey Muraviev, Director-General, International Cooperation and Public Relations Bureau, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Dr. Teiji Takei, MHLW Assistant Minister for Global Health and Welfare, and Mr. Takeshi Matsunaga, Embassy of Japan in Russia. In addition, 1167 healthcare professionals from all over Russia attended the symposium virtually. Supported by the MHLW since 2017, Olympus has provided its endoscopic systems for the Endoscopic Training Center at Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, in addition to supporting training activities with Japanese physicians serving as instructors. The Japan-Russia Medical Cooperation Promotion Project is one of such initiatives by Olympus that MHLW has supported. Moving forward, Olympus will continue to assist with the training of Russian endoscopists, aiming to spread the application of endoscopic diagnosis, treatment and surgery.(1) Selection was made in June, 2020(2) Preventive program centered around cancers in the Russian government's national "Healthcare project" that aims to reform its healthcare system. The program, which is promoted by the directors from the two major cancer centers mentioned above, targets an early cancer detection rate of 63% or greater, 5-year survival rate of 60% or greater, and a mortality rate of 17.3% or less. Colorectal cancer is currently the second most prevalent type of cancer in Russia.(3) A general incorporated institution whose mission is to help spread access to Japan's world-class endoscopy and other medical technologies throughout Asia by providing human resource training support and medical-related education, and by contributing to the development of academic research. (Chairman: Seigo Kitano, President of Oita University)For questions or additional information, please contact:Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA)Matthias Gengenbach+49 4023773 5867matthias.gengenbach@olympus-europa.comJapan and Asia PacificYuka Horimoto+81-90-2490-1071yuka.horimoto@olympus.com Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

28 1 月, 2021

Broncus Holding Corporation Closed Series D Financing

HONG KONG, Jan 28, 2021 - (ACN Newswire) - Broncus Holding Corporation ("Broncus"), a global leader in diagnostic and therapeutic technology for lung diseases, announced today the closing of a Series D round of funding led by FountainVest Partners. Other investors include Exome Asset Management, Summer Capital, and Valliance Capital.Broncus is dedicated to the development of diagnostic and therapeutic technology for lung diseases with focus on the diagnosis of lung cancer and the treatment of emphysema. Owning more than 200 patents, Broncus has built a comprehensive and robust pipeline of patented technologies using a disciplined approach. The Bronchoscopic Trans-Parenchymal Nodule Access ("BTPNA") technology supporting the Archimedes System is able to access any part of the entire lung, reaching directly the lesions that are not connected to or adjacent to an airway. Leveraging its proprietary full-lung navigation technology, the company has developed an integrated interventional pulmonology platform encompassing navigation, diagnosis and treatment.The funds raised in this round will be used for the commercialization and development of technology across lung cancer, emphysema and other important lung diseases. Efforts will include expanding commercial adoption and global clinical studies of the core products, and further development of next-generation radiofrequency technology to treat lung cancer with precision. Early investors in the company include Qiming Venture Capital, Lake Bleu Capital, DCP Capital, Ascendum Capital and Intuitive Surgical, an early pioneer and global technology leader in minimally invasive, robotic-assisted surgery.Zhan Guowei, CEO of Broncus, said, "Our breakthrough navigation technology is enabling us to accelerate the development and commercialization of precise interventional technologies for diagnosis and treatment in order to improve options for patients with lung diseases and the physicians that care for them."Jason Li, Managing Director of FountainVest, said, "FountainVest Partners is excited to be supporting Broncus, one of the leading global players in the field of interventional diagnosis and therapy of lung diseases with proven capabilities to develop cutting edge innovative medical technologies. Leveraging FountainVest's resource within the healthcare sector, we look forward to partnering with Broncus to explore further growth opportunities both domestically and globally."About Broncus Holding CorporationBroncus is dedicated to the development of diagnostic and therapeutic technology for lung disease, a leading interventional pulmonology medical device player providing comprehensive lung solution offerings in China and globally. Founded in 2012, the company's primary technology platforms focus on the diagnosis of lung cancer and the treatment of emphysema, and has developed an integrated interventional pulmonology platform encompassing navigation, diagnosis and treatment. The Archimedes System has been cleared by the FDA (U.S.), CE (Europe) and NMPA (China) and had broad patent protection globally. Under the unique R&D model, company combines international cutting-edge technologies with local R&D cost advantages to support a strong intellectual property portfolio and fast product iterations.About FountainVest PartnersFounded in 2007, FountainVest Partners ("FountainVest") is one of the most established independent private equity firms in Asia. FountainVest focuses on long-term oriented investments in industry leaders, partnering closely with management teams to drive growth and create value in diversified areas including in strategy, operations, finance, and industry consolidation. FountainVest has completed a number of successful landmark investments in Asia, Europe, and the United States. Sectors of focus include Consumer, Media & Technology, Healthcare, Industrials, and Financial and Business Services. FountainVest manages assets on behalf of world leading public pensions, sovereign wealth funds, and other institutional investors.Media Contact:BroncusShirley DengEmail: shirley.deng@dnamedtech.com Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.acnnewswire.com

20 1 月, 2021

No shame in men’s breast cancer

A taboo wrapped in stigma. Such is the predicament of a man diagnosed with breast cancer. Breast cancer? Isn't that a female disease? Please subscribe or log in to continue reading the full article. Get unlimited access to all stories at $0.99/month Latest headlines and exclusive stories In-depth analyses and award-winning multimedia content Get access to all with our no-contract promotional package at only $0.99/month for the first 3 months* Subscribe now *Terms and conditions apply.

12 1 月, 2021

Eisai to Present Abstracts on Lenvatinib at 2021 Gastrointestinal Cancers Symposium

TOKYO, Jan 12, 2021 - (JCN Newswire) - Eisai Co., Ltd. has announced that presentations on a series of abstracts highlighting updates on its in-house discovered lenvatinib mesylate (product name: LENVIMA, the orally available kinase inhibitor, "lenvatinib") will be given at the Gastrointestinal Cancers Symposium Virtual Meeting, from January 15 to 17, 2021.At this symposium, regarding the lenvatinib monotherapy, the real-world effectiveness among unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients treated in United States clinical practices (Abstract No: 273), as well as the results of a post hoc analysis of patients with unresectable HCC who progressed to the Child-Pugh B stage in the Phase 3 REFLECT study (Abstract No: 298), will be presented.In addition, the data to be presented regarding the combination therapy of lenvatinib plus pembrolizumab (product name: KEYTRUDA), the anti-PD-1 therapy from Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, N.J., U.S.A. (known as MSD outside the United States and Canada), are results from the biliary tract cancer cohort (Abstract No: 321), the colorectal cancer cohort (Abstract No: 94), and the gastric cancer cohort (Abstract No: 230) of the basket-type Phase 2 LEAP-005 clinical study for 6 types of previously treated advanced solid tumors.In March 2018, Eisai and Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, N.J., U.S.A., through an affiliate, entered into a strategic collaboration for the worldwide co-development and co-commercialization of lenvatinib.Eisai positions oncology as a key therapeutic area, and is aiming to discover revolutionary new medicines with the potential to cure cancer. Eisai will continue to create innovation in the development of new drugs based on cutting-edge cancer research, as it seeks to contribute further to addressing the diverse needs of, and increasing the benefits provided to, patients with cancer, their families, and healthcare providers.This release discusses investigational compounds and investigational uses for FDA-approved products. It is not intended to convey conclusions about efficacy and safety. There is no guarantee that any investigational compounds or investigational uses of FDA-approved products will successfully complete clinical development or gain FDA approval.About the Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, N.J., U.S.A. and Eisai Strategic CollaborationIn March 2018, Eisai and Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, N.J., U.S.A., known as MSD outside the United States and Canada, through an affiliate, entered into a strategic collaboration for the worldwide co-development and co-commercialization of LENVIMA. Under the agreement, the companies will jointly develop, manufacture and commercialize LENVIMA, both as monotherapy and in combination with KEYTRUDA, the anti-PD-1 therapy from Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, N.J., U.S.A.In addition to ongoing clinical studies evaluating the KEYTRUDA plus LENVIMA combination across several different tumor types, the companies have jointly initiated new clinical studies through the LEAP (LEnvatinib And Pembrolizumab) clinical program and are evaluating the combination in 13 different tumor types (endometrial carcinoma, hepatocellular carcinoma, melanoma, non-small cell lung cancer, renal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck, urothelial cancer, biliary tract cancer, colorectal cancer, gastric cancer, glioblastoma, ovarian cancer and triple-negative breast cancer) across 20 clinical trials.Eisai's Focus on CancerEisai focuses on the development of anticancer drugs, targeting the tumor microenvironment (with experience and knowledge from existing in-house discovered compounds) and the driver gene mutation and aberrant splicing (leveraging RNA Splicing Platform) as areas (Ricchi) where real patient needs are still unmet, and where Eisai can aim to become a frontrunner in oncology. Eisai aspires to discover innovative new drugs with new targets and mechanisms of action from these Ricchi, with the aim of contributing to the cure of cancers.Media Inquiries:Public Relations Department,Eisai Co., Ltd.+81-(0)3-3817-5120 Copyright 2021 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. www.jcnnewswire.com

18 12 月, 2020

ESM Goh Chok Tong has cancer surgery, will undergo 4 weeks of radiotherapy

SINGAPORE - Emeritus Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong will be undergoing four weeks of radiotherapy following the removal of a lump in his larynx. This is to ensure that all cancerous cells are killed off. "Just like the weather these days, it never rains but pours for me medically," the former prime minister wrote in his most recent post. "What a way to celebrate the festive season!" In the post, Mr Goh said the suspicious lump in his larynx was found to have cancerous squamous cells. Although scans found no trace of these cells in his neck or chest, he will be undergoing radiotherapy to make sure all cancerous cells are killed off. "I share my medical episodes to encourage everyone to go for regular or annual health screenings," Mr Goh said, encouraging people to seek medical help if they find that their voice has changed and they have a lump in their throat. The Health Ministry has a subsidised health screening programme, called Screen For Life, which heavily subsidises the cost of screening for ailments such as cervical, breast and colorectal cancers. "Ignorance, delay and denial may be costly," Mr Goh wrote. "Spot and treat the cancer early, the five-year survival rate is over 90 per cent. Do it after it has spread, the survival rate drops to below 30 per cent." The five-year survival rate refers to the percentage of patients who are alive five years after the cancer has been found and treated. The lump was the latest in a string of health scares the 79-year-old elder statesman has experienced in recent years. In November, he documented his surgery to remove a "biggish" kidney stone and the subsequent recovery process in several Facebook posts. Earlier this month, he also wrote about how he was saved from an asthmatic attack and a near total blockage of two arteries in the nick of time. "My thundery showers will pass," Mr Goh said in his latest post. "I am looking forward to clear blue sky before the Chinese New Year - and more good years thereafter." More on this topic Related Story ESM Goh Chok Tong undergoes successful surgery for prostate cancer Related Story ESM Goh Chok Tong undergoes angioplasty after check-up finds narrowing arteries

23 10 月, 2020

Blood test for early detection of gastric cancer being evaluated for use in primary healthcare

SINGAPORE - A blood test that can detect gastric cancer in its early stages has been developed and is currently being evaluated for use in hospitals and clinics, said the National University Health System (NUHS) on Friday (Oct 23). In Singapore, gastric cancer is the fifth cause of cancer deaths in men and the sixth in women, claiming around 300 lives yearly. It is the third leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide, as it is often detected at the later stages, making it difficult to treat. Gastric cancer is usually diagnosed through endoscopy, a procedure perceived to be expensive and invasive, as it involves inserting a thin tube with a camera into the patient's mouth and all the way down to the stomach. An endoscopy costs around $200 to $800 with medical subsidy, according to the Ministry of Health's website. On the other hand, using the blood test would be more cost-effective - it would be priced at under $200 at public hospitals. The test is also non-invasive, and can encourage higher uptake among the public for early detection of the cancer and reduce reliance on endoscopy. It would take around three hours to run in a clinical lab and can deliver results to the patient's doctor within a week. The project to develop the new blood test began in 2012. It was led by Professor Jimmy So, head and senior consultant with the National University Hospital's (NUH) division of general surgery (upper gastrointestinal surgery); Professor Yeoh Khay Guan, senior consultant with the NUH's division of gastroenterology and hepatology; and Associate Professor Too Heng-Phon from the National University of Singapore Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine's department of biochemistry. The team also included clinicians and scientists from NUHS; the Bioprocessing Technology Institute (BTI) of the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*Star); national platform Diagnostics Development Hub; and MiRXES, a Singapore-headquartered molecular diagnostic company that was spun off from A*Star's BTI. The blood test can detect 87 per cent of all gastric cancers, including 87.5 per cent of stage one cancers, by looking out for patterns of microRNA - a type of gene in the blood sample. The results were found to be more accurate compared with conventional blood tests for gastric cancer, and were highly sensitive across age groups, genders, ethnicities and tumour stages. More on this topic Related Story Researchers work to boost treatment of gastric cancer Related Story Study links gastric cancer to protein level Using a panel of 12 microRNA biomarkers that can differentiate gastric cancer patients from normal patients with an accuracy of more than 92 per cent, an initial test kit was manufactured in 2012. From 2013 to 2018, the test kit was validated among some 5,000 subjects from Singapore, and received approval from the Health Sciences Authority last year. Prof So said: "The majority of gastric cancer patients are diagnosed at advanced stages, for which the five-year survival rate is lower than 5 per cent. Early detecting is thus key to reducing death from gastric cancer. To bring about a meaningful fall in the gastric cancer mortality rate, an effective strategy that would detect gastric cancer early so as to enable prompt intervention is required." He added: "This non-invasive blood test is a breakthrough in gastric cancer diagnosis and it may potentially be used as an effective screening test for the early diagnosis of gastric cancer." As it costs less than endoscopy, the test could potentially be used as part of the national screening programme of gastric cancer in high-risk groups. Patients who have positive 12-microRNA test results will then be recommended to go for endoscopy. More on this topic Related Story Singapore medical company invents non-invasive cancer screening tests; receives US$20m in funding Related Story NUS team's 'scorecard' to detect cancer, predict patient survival Prof Too, however, emphasised that the test does not replace endoscopy, and instead provides an option to patients who may not be keen on initial endoscopic screening. Instead, it "adds to the current cancer detection tool armamentarium", and provides the public with access to better healthcare through its convenience and non-invasiveness.