In the recent Southeast Asia Breast Cancer Symposium held last September 23-25 in Manila, medical experts from different parts of the globe came together to share new information on treatment and management for breast cancer based on clinical trials and research.
Among the many discoveries during the convention were relevant data on effective drugs and therapy to combat cancer. Primary endpoint results from the DESTINY-Breast04 Trial were reported by Dr. Julie Gralow, ASCO Chief Medical Officer. In August 2022, the US FDA approved trastuzumab deruxtecan (T-DXd) for the treatment of HER2 low metastatic breast cancer, which significantly showed improvement on progression-free and overall survival in patients.
Another compelling data presented during the 3-day symposium was how Palbociclib, ribociclib, and abemaciclib, three CDK4/6 inhibitor drugs being developed, were assessed in patients with hormone receptor positive metastatic breast cancer. Combining the CDK4/6 inhibitors with anti-hormone therapy resulted in a significantly improved progression-free survival rate than using anti-hormone therapy alone, according to Dr. Don Dizon, medical oncologist and professor of Medicine at Brown University.
Dr. Alice Leung and Dr. Winnie K.W. So also brought their biotech industry knowledge into the forum by sharing significant lessons on how food can influence cancer treatment. Many foods have been found to have beneficial effects on cancer development, including antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds, and anti-angiogenesis molecules. The anti-cancer properties of food are likely due to the presence of bioactive compounds, such as polyphenols, carotenoids, and flavonoids.
Certain food components can play a role in inhibiting cancer cell growth by acting as tumor suppressors or tumor promoters. In addition to these bioactive compounds found in food, food may also play a role in protecting against cancer through its effects on inflammation and metabolic pathways.
Industry movement and studies also show how healthcare is transforming and becoming more personalized. Dr. Diana M. Edralin, General Manager of the Pharmaceuticals Division of Roche Philippines, mentioned in her session how technology is opening up new ways to provide care and improve outcomes. Increasingly, healthcare providers are offering their patients the choice to receive their health care in a home setting, from things like walk-in clinics to prescription delivery services. The impact of these changes is still being determined, but one thing seems clear: when it comes to healthcare, the model of ‘one size fits all’ is no longer sufficient.
As research continues to show breast cancer is treatable and manageable, it’s important for women to take preventative action. Different speakers from different sessions all reiterated one important point: the earlier a woman seeks treatment, the better her chances of a cure.
During her Day 2 keynote address, Dr. Paulyn Ubial, former Health Secretary of the Philippines, emphasized the importance of health for all people; it is not simply a matter for the health sector. According to a study in which a great deal of Filipino women said they would prefer not to know whether they had breast cancer because they didn’t believe they would be able to afford treatment, Ubial pointed out that it can be treated particularly when it is detected early. She urged people to offer assistance and resources to cancer patients and survivors as a result of this research.
Breast self-exams are one way to detect cancer at an early stage. In addition, lifestyle changes can help keep breast cancer from spreading. Patients can help ensure the best possible outcome from their breast cancer diagnosis and treatment by taking the extra step to constantly communicate with experts and learn all about disease management.
This year’s hosts thank their partners—the UICC, the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), ABC Global Alliance, Reach to Recovery International, Philippine College of Surgeons, Philippine Society of Breast Surgeons, Philippine Society of Medical Oncology, Philippine Society of Oncologists, Inc, the Cancer Coalition Philippines, Suandok Breast Cancer Network, Yayasan Kanker Payudara Indonesia, and Shwe Yaung Hnin Si Cancer Foundation for their generous support in making this event come to life.
SEABCS 2022 was also made possible by Pfizer, Roche, AIA, Novartis, De Guzman Group, Nutriasia, Unilab, Healthway Cancer Care Hospital, In the Pink and Globe. All sessions will soon be available on the ICanServe Foundation YouTube page.
