AstraZeneca and Beijing Yidehaokang Launch 'BRCA Easy Test' to Empower Women's Health in China

Investment Circle (WeChat ID: pedaily2012) reports that AstraZeneca has recently signed a cooperation agreement with MDHcare based on the “BRCA Easy Test” project, aiming to facilitate BRCA genetic testing for more cancer patients. “BRCA Easy Test” is the first domestic integrated service platform for BRCA-related genes covering “testing-diagnosis-treatment-insurance,” launched by MDHcare’s Jianshan Consultation Platform. The project has invited several well-known domestic tumor genetic testing companies to collaborate in building an integrated service platform for patients, combining testing, diagnosis, medication, and insurance assistance.

As the first cross-enterprise, cross-regional pilot testing project for multiple tumor types, the bidding process received full support from eight well-known medical testing companies in the industry. Phase IBGI Genomics, AmoyDx, Genetron Health, and Zhongshan Top Medical, whose products serve the entire country.

With the formal inclusion of olaparib, the first PARP inhibitor in China, into the National Reimbursement Drug List (covering basic medical insurance, work-related injury insurance, and maternity insurance), and the approval of its indication for first-line maintenance therapy in patients with BRCA-mutated ovarian cancer, efficient and accurate BRCA genetic testing has become a key factor enabling more patients to access precision targeted therapy regimens at an earlier stage.

CEO of MDHcareChen JieDuring the speech, multiple case studies of patient care during the pandemic were shared. Due to pandemic control measures and the scarcity of clinical resources, patients were unable to visit hospitals for sample collection. Through the “BRCA Easy Test” program, not only were patients’ sampling and testing needs addressed, but seamless cross-regional and cross-institutional collaboration was also achieved with minimal contact. Test reports were successfully delivered to patients and physicians in real time, providing timely support for subsequent diagnosis and treatment.

“During the epidemic prevention and control period, medical resources became even more precious. Introducing efficiency tools from fields such as the internet into the healthcare industry to assist doctors in improving efficiency became extremely important, because patients cannot wait!” said Chen Jie, CEO of MDHcare. “Online sample submission will become the norm!”

Several executives from AstraZeneca shared data and trends from various perspectives.

Xie Qiong, Assistant Vice President of the Urology/Gynecology/Female Oncology Therapeutic Area within AstraZeneca’s China Oncology Business Unit, shared, “In the United States, the BRCA testing rate among patients with relevant cancers has reached 60% to 70%; however, our latest survey indicates that the BRCA testing rate among newly diagnosed ovarian cancer patients in China is only 35%.”

General Manager, China Oncology Business UnitYin MinHe revealed, “During the pandemic, we consulted many doctors and hospital directors about their views on internet hospitals. There has been a significant change before and after the pandemic. This strengthens our belief that innovation in internet-based pharmaceutical and healthcare services has ushered in a new spring.”

Meanwhile, Xu Jing, Vice President of AstraZeneca China and Head of the Digitalization and Commercial Innovation Department, stated, “By focusing on patient needs, transcending the traditional scope of pharmaceutical companies, and collaborating with industry partners across the entire end-to-end patient journey, we can drive continuous innovation to enable cancer to be managed like a chronic disease, thereby benefiting patients.”

“Through such a project, we can not only cover first- and second-tier cities but also extend our reach to third- and fourth-tier cities. We hope that patients in first- and second-tier cities can benefit from more advanced technologies, while also bringing hope to patients in third- and fourth-tier cities,” summarized Liu Na, Vice President of BGI Genomics, in response to reporters’ questions.