In an era where cancer treatment faces increasing challenges, personalized dose immunotherapy is emerging as a milestone in oncology medicine. This innovative technique, which adapts the amount of medication to the specific needs of each patient, not only improves therapeutic efficacy, but also presents a potential solution for reducing costs in cancer treatment.
The dose personalization strategy was highlighted by Dr. Stephen Stefani, oncologist and researcher at Oncoclínicas, in Rio Grande do Sul. According to him, the approach has proven particularly effective in patients who weigh less than 90 kg, and its adoption has grown in various oncological scenarios. This practice seeks to balance the need for effective treatments with economic viability, a crucial aspect in the fight against cancer.
Researchers at the National Institute of India have provided promising evidence in the field of personalized immunotherapy. In a study published in early 2023 in Jornal da American Society of Oncology, it was discovered that ultra-low doses, calibrated based on the patient’s weight, showed results superior to the standard fixed amounts defined by pharmaceutical laboratories. This discovery paved the way for a global discussion about the feasibility of this approach in different types of cancer, with countries such as Canada, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom leading research and debate.
The issue of the cost of oncology treatments is a constant concern, with some medications reaching prices above R$100,000 per month. This factor has been a central point in discussions about the future of the global healthcare system, highlighting the need for innovative and accessible payment models.
In Brazil, cost reduction is especially significant, given the direct influence it can have on the public health system. O Health Unic System (SUS) faces substantial challenges in including new therapies in its list of options, largely due to the high cost of these medications. Even with recent adjustments to the price list, the values are still insufficient to cover the majority of new treatments. The adoption of personalized immunotherapy strategies may be a viable solution to this impasse, providing a balance between cost and effectiveness.
Oncoclinics
Oncoclínicas is a reference in cancer treatment in Latin America, with a service model that emphasizes precision, efficiency and humanization. With more than 2,700 specialist doctors and a presence in 38 Brazilian cities through 143 units, the organization is dedicated to offering high-standard oncology treatment, accessible to everyone. Oncoclínicas maintains strategic partnerships with renowned institutions, such as the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, and collaborates with leading research institutions, such as the Weizmann Institute of Science. These partnerships reinforce its commitment to innovation and excellence in cancer care, combining technological advances, precision medicine and genomics to provide exceptional care for patients.
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