Despite significant advances in breast cancer treatment over the past two decades, with targeted therapies and immunotherapy that have significantly improved quality of life and survival rates, only 10% of patients served by Gaby’s Foundation have access to these innovative therapies.
Oncologist Dr. Glenny Tapia highlighted that since 2000, the approach to breast cancer treatments has changed, moving from uniform therapies to a more personalized approach based on the molecular subtype of the cancer. This has allowed for more effective and specific treatments, with better results in terms of survival and less recurrence.
In the Dominican Republic, where there are 59.1 cases per 100,000 inhabitants and a mortality rate of 26.6%, access to advanced treatments remains limited. Gabriela Toribio, president of Gaby’s Foundation, explained that only one in ten women supported by the foundation can access personalized therapy. Economic barriers, such as lack of adequate health insurance, affect the availability of these expensive treatments.
“Personalized and cutting-edge therapies offer a better prognosis and lower recurrence rates. However, economic disparities prevent many patients from accessing these advances,” said Toribio.
Immunohistochemistry, a crucial test to determine receptors on cancer cells, has been instrumental in personalized treatment, allowing physicians to offer more targeted therapies. Dr. Tapia highlighted that innovative therapies can improve response and survival in metastatic breast cancer and reduce recurrence in early stages of the disease.
The World Health Organization stresses the need to strengthen health systems to ensure that effective treatments are available to all patients, a crucial goal in the fight against breast cancer.
