There is more than 10 years of positive experience and 700 Million patient days with EU approved biosimilar medicines. The approval of oncology biosimilar medicines in primary care offers patients a major access opportunity in cancer therapies. A thorough understanding of the science of biosimilar medicines and their development will support oncologists and their patients in making informed treatment choices.

With more than 10 years of positive experience and 700 Million patient days[i] in different therapeutic areas, including in supportive cancer care, biosimilar medicines are now entering the therapeutic armamentarium for primary oncology care.

Disparities in access to cancer medicines vary widely among countries, including for the standard of care, and need to be addressed urgently[ii]. The approval of oncology biosimilar medicines now offers patients a major access opportunity in cancer therapies contributing to both greater equality in access to healthcare products and services in the patients’ care pathway while supporting the sustainability of national healthcare systems in the long run.

To add further value to the educational journey of the ESMO 2017 Congress delegates, taking place from 8-12 September in Madrid, the Biosimilar Medicines Group, sector group of Medicines for Europe, has therefore organised an Industry Satellite Symposium, entitled “Biosimilars for Oncologists: what you need to know” [iii]. The aim is to provide an opportunity for oncologists to familiarise themselves with these safe and cost-effective treatment options. A thorough understanding of the science of biosimilar medicines and their development, the vast EU experience with this type of medicines, as well as of the pharmaco-economic impact of oncology products, will support oncologists and their patients in making informed treatment choices whilst maximizing their potential to increase patient access to oncology biologics.

Adrian van den Hoven, Medicines for Europe Director General, commented “Biosimilar medicines are a real game changer for better health. They can transform oncology care, by prioritising greater and equal patient access to biologic medicines treatment, supportive care and other needed health services.”