Bringing hope to breast cancer patients

In 2016, at the age of 40, Nada (name changed) discovered a lump on her right breast. She immediately took action by undergoing medical tests, including a mammogram, leading to the early detection of breast cancer. Her proactive approach to her health enabled her to start her fight against this deadly disease promptly. Her initial battle ended with a triumphant declaration of cancer-free, but the fight was far from over. Four years later, the cancer returned, this time at stage four, presenting even more challenges. Being the upbeat and vibrant person that she is, Nada still remains hopeful to this day, believing that medical science will help her live a long and fulfilling life. She is one among the 2,510 breast cancer patients who received personalized care and treatment support from Axios International-partnered programs.

Tackling a global epidemic

Nada's story is inspiring. However, she is one of the fortunate few who recognized the signs and symptoms of breast cancer early on and sought timely treatment. Unfortunately, many women worldwide are still unaware of their risk or lack the resources to access adequate healthcare. According to the World Cancer Research Fund International, breast cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide, with around 2.3 million women diagnosed and 685,000 deaths in 2020. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that annually, 1.1 million breast cancer cases occur in Africa, resulting in approximately 700,000 deaths. What is even more alarming is that the majority of the projected 19.3 to 21.7 million breast cancer cases by 2025 are expected in Africa, where survival rates are significantly lower compared to high-income countries, where a 90% survival rate has been recorded. About half of these cases occur in women with no specific risk factors other than gender and age. Men aren’t spared, either. WHO’s latest statistics say that approximately 0.5-1% of breast cancer cases occur in men [1].

Medical advances in breast cancer

Historically, breast cancer mortality rates remained largely unchanged from 1930 to 1970, with surgery as the primary treatment. It wasn't until the 1990s that mortality rates began to decline as countries implemented early detection programs linked to comprehensive treatment strategies that incorporated effective medical therapies. However, only a few people can afford the costs of advanced treatments. Hence, in addition to being one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide, breast cancer also places a significant financial burden on families and caregivers.

Types and Symptoms

Breast cancer can be detected in various ways, with a lump being the most common symptom. Other symptoms include thickening or swelling of the breast, nipple discharges, unusual skin changes, nipple pain, and more. There are different types of breast cancers, including Ductal Carcinoma, Lobular Carcinoma, Invasive Breast Cancer, Metastatic Breast Cancer, Triple-Negative Breast Cancer, Paget’s Disease of the breast, Papillary Carcinoma, and Angiosarcoma. Among these, ductal carcinoma is the most prevalent, accounting for one in five cases [2].

A beacon of hope

Axios International, since its founding in 1997, has been playing a vital role in the battle of patients against breast cancer worldwide. In partnership with our clients and partners and through innovative and sustainable access programs, we are able to support thousands of breast cancer patients and provide them with access to healthcare. We extend support through Access to Diagnosis Solutions, offering blood tests, X-rays, Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) treatment, and more. We also offer Maximized Adherence Solutions, providing education and raising awareness about breast cancer, and helping patients to cope with the disease across the globe.

Reducing the financial burden

As breast cancer continues to be one of the leading causes of death worldwide[3], finding solutions for the prevention and treatment of this epidemic, particularly in low-resource countries, deserves to be tackled with utmost care. Breast cancer treatment often comes with substantial financial costs. We at Axios International seek to alleviate this burden through innovative and sustainable financial access models, ensuring timely patient support according to their unique needs. To fill the access gap, we promote multi-sectoral collaboration and approach.

Community engagement

Over the years, we have been actively involved in the global debate surrounding breast cancer and creating awareness by attending oncology conferences and organizing awareness programs at local and international levels. We recently attended ASCOMOS 2023, the Annual Scientific Congress organized by the Malaysian Oncological Society, which was themed around 'Scaling Greater Heights in Oncology.' The event provided an opportunity to learn more about advancements in oncology and to forge connections that would pave the way for a brighter future in cancer care. Also, for Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we are partnering with Al Jalila Foundation to provide screening and diagnostic support to participants at the Mai Dubai City Half Marathon in UAE. In order to create a comprehensive healthcare access ecosystem, we collaborate with pharmaceutical companies, healthcare providers/physicians, pharmacists, governments, charities/NGOs, and distributors/insurance companies. We are also in discussion with like-minded digital tech partners capable of creating a digital health ecosystem that leverages technological advancements for complete sustainability.

Nada's story demonstrates the importance of early detection and the significance and role of organizations such as Axios International in offering hope and financial support to those suffering from breast cancer. Take a listen to Nada's story in our latest podcast here.?