UAE approves innovative oral therapy to treat breast cancer

The UAE brings renewed hope for breast cancer patients by approving a new oral therapy to treat patients who've developed resistance to hormone therapy.

In a statement released on Thursday, the Emirates Drug Establishment (EDE) said Etcamah will help patients with advanced or metastatic breast cancer.

It will work by blocking and degrading estrogen receptors in cancer cells, and slow down tumour growth and spread.

The therapy was approved after it demonstrated strong results in progression-free survival among patients who developed the mutation while receiving endocrine therapy during the Phase III SERENA-6 trial.

The authority added that the UAE is the first country to approve this treatment.

Dr. Fatima Al Kaabi, Director-General of the Emirates Drug Establishment, said the treatment strengthens the UAE's ability to provide advanced treatment options for patients in the healthcare sector. "Through advanced assessment tools that balance accelerated access with the highest standards of safety and quality, we will continue to reinforce the UAE’s position as a trusted reference point for pharmaceutical innovation." 

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers among women, demonstrating the significance of expanding access to innovative treatment options that contribute to improved clinical outcomes and enhanced quality of life for patients. 

The authority emphasised the importance of early breast cancer detection, adherence to prescribed treatment plans, and regular follow-up with healthcare professionals, as these play a vital role in improving treatment response and enhancing recovery outcomes.