The Fatima bint Mubarak Center at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first center in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region to participate in a groundbreaking global therapeutic trial for breast cancer recurrence prevention. The AstraZeneca-funded study is evaluating a novel Selective Estrogen Receptor Degrader (SERD) medication, which could potentially revolutionize the standard of care for breast cancer patients.
Understanding the Trial's Significance
The Phase 3 clinical trial, involving approximately 5,500 participants worldwide, focuses on comparing a new SERD drug against current hormone therapies. This novel medication is designed to more effectively block estrogen receptors compared to existing treatments, potentially offering improved outcomes for patients with hormone receptor-positive breast cancer.
Dr. Stephen Grobmyer, Institute Chair of the Oncology Institute at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, emphasizes the trial's importance: "Clinical trials are less common in the GCC region, which raises health equity concerns. Our participation in this breast cancer trial reflects our commitment to offering patients cutting-edge treatments while contributing to global understanding of how these treatments work across diverse populations."
Regional Impact and Disease Burden
According to World Health Organization data, breast cancer ranks as the second most common cancer globally and the leading cause of cancer-related mortality in women. The UAE faces particular challenges, with breast cancer accounting for approximately 11.6% of cancer deaths in 2019, as reported by the Ministry of Health and Prevention.
Dr. Bassel Jallad, Staff Physician in Medical Oncology & Hematology at the Oncology Institute, notes: "Being the first site in the GCC to conduct this trial is a milestone for our region. It signifies recognition of our capabilities in conducting high-quality research and reflects the growing importance of including diverse populations in clinical trials."
Innovation in Cancer Care Delivery
The Fatima bint Mubarak Center, modeled after Cleveland Clinic's Taussig Cancer Center, represents a pioneering approach to cancer care in the UAE. The center coordinates comprehensive cancer services in a single location, employing multidisciplinary teams specialized in specific areas of cancer care.
Dr. Eva Turgonyi, Medical Director at AstraZeneca GCC, highlights the company's commitment: "As breast cancer remains the number one cause of cancer-related mortality in the UAE, AstraZeneca is committed to reduce the risk of breast cancer recurrence and ultimately contributing to the elimination of breast cancer as a cause of death."
Advancing Regional Healthcare Standards
Through this trial, the Fatima bint Mubarak Center is actively addressing health inequities by studying the regional population and contributing to global research efforts. This initiative not only provides local patients access to cutting-edge treatments but also helps develop therapies tailored to the specific needs of the GCC community.
