PharmaEssentia Corporation has announced the launch of BESREMi® (ropeginterferon alfa-2b) in Singapore, making it the first country in Southeast Asia to offer this treatment for Polycythemia Vera (PV). This announcement coincides with MPN Awareness Day on September 12, underscoring the company's dedication to addressing unmet medical needs in hematology and oncology.
Advancing PV Treatment
Polycythemia Vera is a rare blood cancer characterized by the excessive production of blood cells in the bone marrow. In Singapore, approximately 500 individuals are affected by PV, with another 5,000 across Southeast Asia. The lack of awareness surrounding PV can complicate disease management, making initiatives like MPN Awareness Day vital for educating both the public and healthcare professionals about the condition.
"Today is a major milestone for PV treatment in Singapore," said Dr. Peggy Loh, Singapore General Manager at PharmaEssentia. "BESREMi® provides an innovative solution that targets directly the source of the disease for long-term control to reduce the risk of disease progression and thrombosis."
BESREMi®: A Novel Treatment Option
BESREMi®, approved by the FDA in 2021, is the first interferon therapy for adults with PV. It is now available in several regions, including the United States, Europe, the United Kingdom, and parts of Asia. Unlike traditional treatments that primarily manage symptoms, BESREMi® aims to address the underlying mechanisms of PV, offering comprehensive disease control and improved long-term outcomes.
The Importance of Early Detection and Awareness
According to Dr. Ng Chin Hin, Senior Consultant, Haematology, Centre for Clinical Haematology, PV symptoms such as headaches and fatigue can be mistaken for other conditions, emphasizing the importance of early medical attention. Early diagnosis is critical, as untreated PV can lead to severe complications like stroke and heart attack.
Dr. Dawn Mya Hae Tha, Senior Consultant, Haematology, Parkway Cancer Centre, also highlighted the importance of routine health screenings for early detection of PV. Blood tests, including a full blood count, can reveal abnormalities in blood cell counts, facilitating timely intervention.
PharmaEssentia encourages those affected by PV, caregivers, and healthcare providers to raise awareness about the condition, especially with MPN Awareness Day approaching. Increased awareness can lead to earlier diagnosis and improved quality of life for PV patients.
