Dr. Reddy’s expands access to immunotherapy for rare nasopharyngeal cancer in South Africa

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SOUTH AFRICA—Dr Reddy’s Laboratories South Africa has registered a new immunotherapy for patients with recurrent or metastatic nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC), marking an important step in expanding access to advanced cancer treatment in the country.

According to the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA), one in seven South African men and one in eight South African women will develop cancer during their lifetime.

While public awareness campaigns have improved recognition of common cancers such as breast, prostate and lung cancer, many rare cancers remain largely overlooked because their symptoms often resemble everyday illnesses.

Rare Cancer with Limited Treatment Options

The U.S. National Cancer Institute estimates that more than 500 rare cancers exist, many of which receive limited public attention despite their significant impact on patients and families.

Among these is nasopharyngeal carcinoma, a rare form of head and neck cancer that develops in the tissue behind the nose and above the back of the throat.

According to GLOBOCAN 2024 data from the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), NPC has a five-year prevalence of only 0.66 cases per 100,000 people in South Africa.

Because the disease often causes symptoms that resemble common infections, many patients receive a diagnosis only after the cancer has reached an advanced stage, making treatment more challenging.

Despite major advances in oncology over the past decade, treatment innovation for recurrent or metastatic NPC has remained limited, creating a pressing need for new therapeutic options.

Immunotherapy Offers a Different Approach

Unlike conventional chemotherapy, which destroys rapidly dividing cancer cells but can also damage healthy cells in the bone marrow, digestive system and hair follicles, immunotherapy works by strengthening the body’s immune system to identify and attack cancer cells more effectively.

This approach has transformed the treatment of several cancers and continues to expand treatment possibilities for patients with advanced or difficult-to-treat diseases.

By targeting the immune system rather than directly attacking cancer cells, immunotherapy offers a more targeted strategy that has become an important part of modern cancer care.

Improving Access for Patients

“Every cancer patient deserves access to innovative treatment options, regardless of how rare their diagnosis may be,” said Dr Rashem Mothilal, General Manager of Dr Reddy’s Laboratories South Africa.

“The registration of this immunotherapy represents an important step forward for patients living with recurrent or metastatic nasopharyngeal carcinoma and reflects our commitment to expanding access to advanced oncology treatments in South Africa.”

The registration forms part of the company’s broader strategy to improve access to innovative cancer therapies while addressing unmet needs in underserved diseases.

Recognising the Symptoms Earlier

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma rarely presents with obvious warning signs during its early stages.

Persistent nasal congestion, repeated ear infections, hearing loss, nosebleeds and swollen lymph nodes in the neck are among the most common symptoms.

Because these signs frequently resemble less serious conditions, patients may delay seeking medical attention.

Dr Reddy’s Laboratories encourages anyone experiencing persistent, recurring or unexplained symptoms to consult a healthcare professional promptly.

Early diagnosis remains one of the most important factors in improving treatment options and patient outcomes, particularly for individuals living with recurrent or metastatic nasopharyngeal carcinoma.