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| Amgen and Astellas Supported Group Encourages Patients to Test Their Biomarkers in New Stomach Cancer Campaign |
Stomach cancer ranks as the fifth most commonly diagnosed cancer worldwide, claiming approximately 10,000 lives annually in the U.S. However, awareness of this cancer lags far behind that of breast, lung, and colorectal tumors.
A new initiative, known as Test Your Biomarkers, backed by pharmaceutical companies, researchers, and healthcare organizations, launched on World Cancer Day, February 4th, with the aim of changing this reality.
This education and awareness campaign, supported by Amgen and Astellas (both of which have drugs in clinical trials for gastric cancers), targets patients and their caregivers, emphasizing the importance of testing for stomach cancer markers.
The initiative encourages patients to seek out biomarker tests and receive appropriate treatment, similar to how individuals handle genetic mutations in breast and lung cancers.
Several branded treatments and chemotherapies are available for gastric cancers, including Merck's Keytruda, Bristol Myers Squibb's Opdivo, and Daiichi/AstraZeneca's Enhertu. However, these treatments must be matched with specific mutations that drive the cancer. Biomarker tests play a crucial role in identifying the right drug for each patient's cancer.
With awareness of this information, patients can advocate for themselves and discuss biomarker testing with their doctors, as highlighted in a press release by the group.
"Our ultimate goal is to make biomarker testing a standard part of the diagnosis process for every stomach cancer patient," stated Jon Florin, executive director of No Stomach for Cancer, a founding supporter of Test Your Biomarkers.
"Our strength lies in collaboration and concerted efforts among advocacy groups. By working together, we can amplify our impact and address the urgent need for widespread adoption of biomarker testing for stomach cancer diagnosis. Together, we are committed to bridging the information gap between patients and healthcare providers, ensuring that every patient receives personalized and effective care from the outset."