ONCOLOGY

A cancer diagnosis is very personal, but its impact can be far-reaching. Cancer is responsible for approximately one in six deaths, with approximately 70% of cases occurring in low- and middle-income countries. Genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors, as well as certain infectious diseases, are notable factors associated with increased risk of cancer.

The disease begins with a disruption in the tightly-regulated cycle of cell replication. Changes within a single cell (damage to its DNA, for example) can affect its ability to repair itself or self-destruct. Uncontrolled replication can result in a build-up of cells called a tumor. If malignant, this mass may continue to grow, invade other parts of the body or spread to other organs.

Research and Development in the Disease Area of Oncology aims to provide effective cancer therapies through the discovery and development of novel therapeutics that target the specific molecular pathways associated with cancer.