Breast cancer is often in the cross-hairs of diagnostic imaging equipment
manufacturers and pharmaceutical companies. When it comes to imaging procedures
such as a mammogram, MRI,
CT Scan, or X-Ray,
the big concern is finding the tumor or where it may originate. The
pharmaceutical side of the equation deals with developing the right drug, the
one that may well signal a cure.
The problem with searching for the right drug and getting
that cure centers on a couple of factors. Cancer is unpredictable in any form
and can go into remission only to come back. Breast cancer is easier to manage
in early stages and through early detection. A good example of the
pharmaceutical side falling short is Eli Lilly and Co.’s breast cancer drug
failure. It was stated in an article in Reuters that “Eli Lilly and Co. said
its experimental breast cancer drug failed to improve patients’ survival
without cancer worsening during late stage trials.” This type of development is
not just a setback for investors but a setback for the hopes of patients
attempting to find a new hope against breast cancer.
When we take a look back at the progress that has been made
through heavy advocacy since 1974, it’s fair to say the battle against breast
cancer has really moved forward. It’s still important to look at the statistics
now though. One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer, roughly
about 12% of women. Factors such as prohibitive cost, and no access to quality
care and proper treatment programs can actually increase those negative numbers.
With the strength of advocacy it’s vital to see if better
drugs can be produced and used as a replacement for radiation therapy,
chemotherapy, and drastic procedures. While Eli Lilly’s drug Ramucirumab has worked in trials for
advanced gastric cancer, the issue with breast cancer still remains.
Concerns of radiation are being addressed and hopefully they
will yield positive results, however it’s important to keep trying alternate
routes. Hopefully the near future will produce more promising results on the
pharmaceutical front.
If you have any questions about diagnostic imaging
procedures please feel free to give us a call. Our team of dedicated
professionals here at Clermont Radiology is eager to answer your questions and
aid you in your diagnostic imaging needs.
Charla
Hurst
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