Biocon Biologics, a leading global biosimilars company, has released a comprehensive study addressing the challenges of biosimilar adoption in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).
The report, published in the Generics and Biosimilars Initiative (GaBI) Journal, presents six key policy recommendations aimed at improving access to affordable healthcare through quality-assured biosimilars in LMICs.
The study outlines the pressing need to strengthen regulatory systems, promote local manufacturing, enhance national policies, and increase awareness around prescribing biosimilars. Non-communicable diseases (NCDs), such as cancer and diabetes, account for 77% of deaths in LMICs, underscoring the urgency of expanding access to cost-effective therapies.
"Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) disproportionately impact low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), where healthcare resources are particularly limited. Our study underscores the potential of biosimilar products to expand access to essential medicines in these regions," said Dr Uwe Gudat, Chief Medical Officer of Biocon Biologics.
"By offering more affordable alternatives to originator biologics, biosimilars can significantly improve patient outcomes. This review highlights the benefits of biosimilars in LMICs, drawing on data from emerging markets and proposing a call to action to strengthen regulatory frameworks, to facilitate local manufacturing, and to increase awareness of the potential that biosimilars offer for patients and healthcare systems."
In contrast to high-income countries, where biosimilars have already reduced healthcare costs and increased access to life-saving treatments, LMICs face significant barriers. The study highlights the potential for biosimilars to transform healthcare in these regions, providing affordable alternatives to originator biologics and alleviating the financial strain on healthcare systems.
Biocon Biologics is committed to making quality healthcare accessible to all, particularly in LMICs. By focusing on affordability and accessibility, the company aims to bridge the healthcare gap between high-income countries and LMICs, offering a sustainable solution to rising healthcare costs and improving patient care.
Edited by Harshajit Sarmah
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