Breast cancer is a type of cancer that originates in the cells of the breast tissue, typically in the ducts or lobules of the breast. It is one of the most common types of cancer diagnosed in women, although it can also occur in men, though much less frequently.
Hologic, Inc. is a leading global medical technology company that specializes in the development and manufacturing of products and services for various healthcare fields, including breast cancer diagnostics. The company is headquartered in Marlborough, Massachusetts, USA, and was established in 1985.
It manufactures advanced mammography systems, including 2D and 3D (tomosynthesis) mammography equipment. These systems are used for breast cancer screening and early detection. 3D mammography, in particular, has become an important tool in improving the accuracy of breast cancer detection by providing detailed three-dimensional images of the breast tissue.
Headquartered in Helsinki, Finland, the company was established in 1987. It specializes in manufacturing imaging equipment and solutions for various medical fields, including breast cancer diagnosis.
Planmed manufactures high-quality mammography imaging systems. Their mammography equipment is designed to provide detailed and accurate images of breast tissue, which is crucial for the early detection of breast cancer. These systems may include digital mammography, digital breast tomosynthesis (3D mammography), and other advanced imaging technologies.
Walter Gilbert, Mark Skolnick, and Peter D Meldrum established the company in 1991. Its headquarters are located in Salt Lake City, Utah, United States. It is a global leader in molecular diagnostics and personalized medicine.
With context to breast cancer, Myriad is renowned for its pioneering work in BRCA gene testing. The BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are associated with an increased risk of developing hereditary breast and ovarian cancer. Myriad Genetics developed the first commercial test for BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations, which has become a crucial tool in identifying individuals at high risk of hereditary breast cancer.
Established on February 29th, 1996, the company has its headquarters in Basel, Switzerland. It has a diverse portfolio encompassing pharmaceuticals, generics, biosimilars, and innovative medicines, as well as eye care, generics, and other healthcare products.
Novartis has been actively involved in the research and development of medications for breast cancer treatment. It has developed and marketed various drugs used in the treatment of both early-stage and advanced-stage breast cancer. Some of the drugs Afinitor (everolimus), Kisqali (ribociclib), and Piqray (alpelisib).
Headquartered in Cambridge, United Kingdom, the company was established on April 6th, 1999. AstraZeneca has a significant presence in the field of oncology, including breast cancer treatment.
It has developed and marketed several medications used in the treatment of breast cancer including Faslodex (fulvestrant), Lynparza (olaparib), and Enhertu (trastuzumab deruxtecan). The company also explores combination therapies in breast cancer treatment, aiming to enhance the efficacy of treatments and improve patient outcomes. It unravels ways to combine their drugs with other treatments, such as chemotherapy or immunotherapy.
The top players in the breast cancer sector, such as pharmaceutical companies like AstraZeneca, Myriad Genetics, Novartis, and medical technology companies like Hologic and Planmed Oy, are collectively strengthening their global footprint in the fight against breast cancer. These companies play pivotal roles in different aspects of breast cancer, including diagnostics and treatment. These companies are committed to providing patient support, promoting awareness, and expanding access to their solutions, thereby contributing to the global effort to reduce the burden of breast cancer. Their collective efforts demonstrate the vital role that both the pharmaceutical and medical technology sectors play in advancing the field of breast cancer and, ultimately, in improving the lives of individuals affected by this disease.
How we can help?