Abstract
Biotech Drugs with Better Specificity to Push out Conventional Treatment
Strategies
Lack of specificity in the action of drugs, which leads to increased
toxicity, and many side effects, is creating dissatisfaction about conventional
cancer therapies among patients. To rectify these problems, researchers have
devised biotech-related treatment strategies that are more target-specific and
patient-friendly, thereby less toxic, and with fewer harmful side effects. It is
for these reasons that monoclonal antibodies are one of the most popular methods
for diagnosis and treatment of various cancers. Since these drugs act only on
cancerous cells, their concentration need not be high, thus reducing toxicity
and side effects. Monoclonal antibodies and gene therapy are some innovative and
safer biotech alternatives to traditional methods that are being researched.
This Frost & Sullivan research makes a strategic assessment of
biotech-related oncology research and opportunities with specific focus on Asia
Pacific biotech markets. It covers key drivers and restraints, as well as
provides strategic recommendations to overcome market challenges.
Increase in Global Incidence of Cancer to Expand Scope of Research
"Globally around 10 million people were diagnosed with cancer and 4
million people died due to the disease in 2002," states the analyst. Lung
cancer, the second most prevalent type in both men and women, accounts for the
most number of cancer-related deaths. Incidence of all types of cancer - breast,
prostate, and lung cancers, melanoma, and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma being the most
common - has increased across all age groups. Some reasons for this rise are
poor food habits, smoking, stress, and exposure to carcinogenic materials at
work.
Although scientists have been actively involved in oncology research, a
complete cure for cancer has not been found yet. Biotech companies have invested
heavily in developing a cure for cancer because of global demand for newer and
better treatment strategies. "Developments in biotechnology-based oncology
research such as humanized monoclonal antibodies, anti-angiogenesis drugs, and
gene therapy have shown promise in cancer treatment," notes the analyst.
Improved Access to Healthcare Facilities and Technological Advances Drive
Oncology Research
Greater access to healthcare facilities as well as improving awareness of the
disease and the treatment options available have encouraged oncology research in
the Asia Pacific region. Technological advances in biotechnology have immensely
helped research with development of several technology platforms leading to
treatment options such as humanized monoclonal antibodies. Improvements in
genomics and proteomics have also significantly aided diagnostics and
therapeutic developments in oncology.
"The demand for biotech-based treatment strategies will increase once
there is greater acceptance of the treatment method, both by the patient and the
physician," remarks the analyst. With the availability of healthcare
insurance, patients will be encouraged to try out innovative and improved
treatment regimens. Apart from the attraction of building proprietary knowledge,
the need to strengthen product pipelines with newer drugs in the wake of patent
expiry of many blockbusters is also causing companies to invest in
biotech-related oncology R&D activity.
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