A Decade of Progress and Inequality in Advanced Breast Cancer Care
The past ten years have brought about significant advancements in the field of advanced breast cancer (ABC) treatment, but a recent study reveals a stark contrast in access to life-saving drugs and care across different nations. The Advanced Breast Cancer Global Decade Report, a collaborative effort by the ABC Global Alliance and VML Health, highlights both the scientific strides and the persistent inequalities that continue to plague this area of healthcare.
Survival Rates: A Mixed Bag
The global five-year median survival rate for women with ABC has seen a promising increase to 33%, a 7% jump from a decade ago. This improvement is largely attributed to enhanced therapies and the adoption of international consensus guidelines in clinical practice. However, not all subtypes of ABC have benefited equally. Women facing a triple-negative diagnosis still face a median overall survival of just 13 months, with little improvement over the years. HER2-positive disease, on the other hand, shows promise with real-world median survival exceeding 50 months in some regions, but these successes are not yet the norm.
Treatment Inequality: A Global Divide
The report sheds light on several instances of treatment inequality. Trastuzumab, a widely recognized standard of care for HER2-positive ABC, is accessible in only about half of low-middle-income countries, while nearly all high-income nations have access to it. This disparity is further exacerbated by the fact that less than 20% of cancer registries worldwide consistently record the stage at diagnosis, leading to significant gaps in data quality and care optimization. Additionally, nearly four in five people with ABC have never had the opportunity to participate in a clinical trial, limiting their access to potential life-extending treatments.
The Emotional and Practical Impact
The emotional toll of ABC is also a significant concern. The survey, which aggregates data from 59 countries, reveals that 79% of people with ABC report a negative impact on their emotional and psychological health. Furthermore, 73% say their ability to work or study is impaired, and a staggering one in five individuals have lost their jobs due to the disease. Dr. Fatima Cardoso, President of the ABC Global Alliance, emphasizes the importance of progress and equity, stating, “This report showcases the transformative power of collective action, yet we must acknowledge that progress is not synonymous with equity. Our mission is to bridge the gaps in ABC care, ensuring no one is left behind.”
Claire Gillis, CEO of VML Health, adds, “The report’s findings are clear: while survival rates are improving, patients still face financial hardships, lack of support, and persistent stigma. The new ABC Global Charter is a call to action for governments, healthcare systems, and industry to unite and ensure equitable access to care.”
A Vision for the Future: The ABC Global Charter
The ABC Global Alliance’s ABC Global Charter 2025-2035 outlines ten measurable goals aimed at driving change. These goals range from doubling the median survival rate and improving data collection to expanding person-centered support and protecting workplace rights. With breast cancer affecting millions of lives each year, the need for action is urgent. Over the next decade, the focus will be on not only fostering innovation but also ensuring equitable access to care worldwide.