Mumbai-based BDR Pharmaceuticals has announced the launch of Nilotinib, a rare subtype of the most common childhood cancer, acute lymphoblastic leukemia. PH+ Leukemia, encompassing Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) and Chronic Myeloid Leukemia (CML) are infrequent and complex types of cancer that affect both children and adults. While this Philadelphia chromosome is rare in pediatric ALL, it is much more common in adult ALL.

Over the years, World Health Organisation has worked towards focusing on childhood cancer survival rate and aims to double the global cure rate of various other cancers. Over a period of time, the burden of communicable diseases decline however mortality rate due to cancer is rising, especially in low-middle income countries. Over 70,000+ new cases of cancer occur every year, of which around 20,000 have leukemia of which around 12,000-15,000 have acute lymphoblastic leukemia.

Rare childhood cancer subtype, Ph+ ALL, found in 3-4% of paediatric cases and 25% of adult cases. In India, In India, only 20% to 40% of adult acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) patients are Ph+.

While commenting on the new launch, Raheel Shah, Director of BDR Pharmaceuticals said, “The results from our clinical trials have demonstrated the exceptional efficacy of Nilotinib in achieving major molecular responses and significantly improving overall survival rates. We firmly believe that this drug will revolutionise the management of Ph+ leukemia, providing new hope to patients and their families."