Discover Takeda Oncology's decades of leadership in oncology. Explore their approach, latest news, pipeline, and innovative therapies.

Takeda Oncology: Decades of Leadership in Oncology | Takeda Oncology

# Decades of Leadership in Oncology



* Oral Presentation will Highlight 52-Week Safety and Durability of Response Data from Phase 3 VERIFY Study of Rusfertide in Patients with Polycythemia Vera (PV) 
* Updated Phase 2 Results Demonstrating the Potential of Elritercept in Anemia Associated with Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS) and Myelofibrosis (MF) will be Shared in Oral Presentations

**OSAKA, Japan and CAMBRIDGE, Massachusetts, November 3, 2025** – Takeda ([TSE: 4502/NYSE:TAK](https://www.takeda.com/investors/overview/)) will present the latest research from across its diverse portfolio and pipeline at the 67th American Society of Hematology (ASH) Annual Meeting being held December 6-9, 2025, in Orlando, Florida. More than twenty-five presentations will feature new clinical data in hematologic cancers and bleeding disorders, showcasing momentum for approved medicines and key late-stage programs.

“At Takeda, we are driven by a legacy of advancing science where the need is greatest, as well as a passion for developing therapies that may help to address the needs of patients living with challenging and often underserved cancers and blood disorders,” said Phuong Khanh (P.K.) Morrow, MD, Head of the Oncology Therapeutic Area Unit at Takeda. “Our data at ASH reinforces this ongoing commitment to reducing disease and symptom burden, while informing the next generation of clinical decision-making. As a former clinician, I have seen firsthand the difference that new clinical insights and options can bring.”

## Key presentations include:

An oral presentation will detail 52-week data on durability of response on hematocrit control and patient reported outcome measures, and safety observations from the Phase 3 VERIFY study evaluating rusfertide in patients with polycythemia vera (PV). Earlier this year, [32-week results](https://www.takeda.com/newsroom/newsreleases/2025/polycythemia-vera-rusfertide-study/) from the VERIFY study confirmed achievement of the primary endpoint as well as all four key secondary endpoints. Rusfertide is a first-in-class investigational hepcidin mimetic peptide therapeutic, which has received Breakthrough Therapy Designation, Orphan Drug Designation and Fast Track Designation from the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA).

* Rusfertide or Placebo Plus Current Standard of Care Therapy for Polycythemia Vera: Durability of Response and Safety Results Through Week 52 From the Randomized Controlled Phase 3 VERIFY Study will be presented on December 6, 10:00 - 10:15 a.m. ET (Abstract 81)

Two oral presentations will feature updated results from two separate Phase 2 studies evaluating elritercept in myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) and myelofibrosis (MF). Elritercept is a late-stage investigational activin inhibitor designed to treat anemia associated with certain hematologic cancers, including MDS and MF. 

* Elritercept shows durable responses in Lower-risk Myelodysplastic Neoplasms (LR-MDS) with Transfusion Dependence: Updated Results from an Ongoing Phase 2 Trial will be presented orally on December 8, 10:30 - 10:45 a.m. ET (Abstract 787)

* Hematological and Clinical Improvements with Elritercept (KER-050, TAK-226) at the Recommended Phase 2 Dose in Patients with Myelofibrosis Receiving Ruxolitinib: Updated Results from the Phase 2 RESTORE Trial will be presented orally on December 8, 3:15 - 3:30 p.m. ET (Abstract 909)

A poster presentation will feature new data from the Phase 3 study evaluating the perioperative use of VONVENDI® [von Willebrand factor (Recombinant)] in pediatric patients with von Willebrand disease. These data supported the September 2025 approval of the supplemental Biologics License Application for VONVENDI by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

* Recombinant von Willebrand Factor for Perioperative Management of Bleeding in Pediatric Patients with Severe von Willebrand Disease: Interim Results from a Phase 3 Multicenter Study and a Phase 3b Continuation Study will be presented on December 6, 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. ET (Abstract 1304)

## VONVENDI [von Willebrand factor (Recombinant)] Important Information Indications 
VONVENDI [von Willebrand factor (recombinant)] is indicated in adult and pediatric patients with von Willebrand disease (VWD) for: 

* On-demand treatment and control of bleeding episodes. 
* Perioperative management of bleeding. 

*For adult patients only:*

* Routine prophylaxis to reduce the frequency of bleeding episodes. 


### Detailed Important Risk Information 
 
#### CONTRAINDICATIONS 
VONVENDI is contraindicated in patients who have had life-threatening hypersensitivity reactions to VONVENDI or constituents of the product (tri-sodium citrate-dihydrate, glycine, mannitol, trehalose-dihydrate, polysorbate 80, and hamster or mouse proteins). 
 
#### WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

##### Thromboembolic Events  
Thromboembolic events have occurred with VONVENDI. These events can include disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), venous thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, myocardial infarction, and stroke.  Patients with known risk factors for thrombosis, including low ADAMTS13 levels are at a higher risk. Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of thrombosis such as pain, swelling, discoloration, dyspnea, cough, hemoptysis, and syncope.  Institute prophylaxis measures against thromboembolism according to current clinical practice and standard of care. 

In patients requiring frequent doses of VONVENDI in combination with rVIII, monitor plasma levels for FVIII:C activity because sustained excessive factor VIII plasma levels can increase the risk of thromboembolic complications. 
 
##### Hypersensitivity and Infusion-Related Reactions
Hypersensitivity reactions and infusion-related reactions have occurred with VONVENDI. These reactions can include anaphylactic shock, generalized urticaria, angioedema, chest tightness, hypotension, shock, lethargy, nausea, vomiting, paresthesia, pruritus, restlessness, blurred vision, wheezing and /or acute respiratory distress. If signs and symptoms of severe allergic reactions occur, immediately discontinue administration of VONVENDI and provide appropriate supportive care. 

VONVENDI contains trace amounts of mouse immunoglobulin G (MuIgG) and hamster proteins less than or equal to 2 ng/IU VONVENDI. Patients treated with this product may develop hypersensitivity reactions to non-human mammalian proteins.

##### Neutralizing Antibodies 
Neutralizing antibodies to VWF and/or factor VIII can occur with VONVENDI. If the expected plasma levels of VWF activity (VWF:RCo) are not attained, perform an appropriate assay to determine if anti-VWF or anti-factor VIII inhibitors are present. Consider other therapeutic options and direct the patient to a physician with experience in the care of either VWD or hemophilia A. 
 
In patients with high levels of inhibitors to VWF or factor VIII, VONVENDI therapy may not be effective, and infusion of this protein may lead to severe hypersensitivity reactions. Since inhibitor antibodies can occur concomitantly with anaphylactic reactions, evaluate patients experiencing an anaphylactic reaction for the presence of inhibitors. 
 
##### Monitoring Laboratory Tests
Monitor plasma levels of VWF:RCo and factor VIII activities in patients receiving VONVENDI to avoid sustained excessive VWF and/or factor VIII activity levels, which may increase the risk of thrombotic events, particularly in patients with known clinical or laboratory risk factors.
 
Monitor for development of VWF and/or factor VIII inhibitors when suspected. Perform appropriate inhibitor assays to determine if VWF and/or factor VIII inhibitors are present if bleeding is not controlled with the expected dose of VONVENDI.
 
#### ADVERSE REACTIONS 
The most common adverse reactions observed in greater than or equal to 2% of patients in clinical trials with VONVENDI (n=132) were headache, vomiting, nausea, dizziness, and generalized pruritus.
 
Please see VONVENDI [U.S. full Prescribing Information](http://www.shirecontent.com/PI/PDFs/VONVENDI_USA_ENG.pdf).

## Takeda’s Commitment to Oncology
At Takeda Oncology, we are united by our aspiration to cure cancer, with inspiration from patients and innovation from everywhere. Drawing on decades of leadership in oncology, we work to develop innovative treatments that enhance and extend the lives of people living with cancer. We are committed to ensuring that patients globally can benefit from and access our portfolio of medicines, while also progressing a pipeline of potential treatments for the future. Our research and development efforts are focused on advancing medicines for hematologic, gastrointestinal and thoracic cancers by leveraging modalities best suited to make a difference in the treatment of these diseases. We complement our internal expertise and global footprint with a robust network of collaborators. Together, we strive to bring life-changing medicines to more patients around the world. For more information, visit [www.takedaoncology.com](https://www.takedaoncology.com).

## About Takeda
Takeda is focused on creating better health for people and a brighter future for the world. We aim to discover and deliver life-transforming treatments in our core therapeutic and business areas, including gastrointestinal and inflammation, rare diseases, plasma-derived therapies, oncology, neuroscience and vaccines. Together with our partners, we aim to improve the patient experience and advance a new frontier of treatment options through our dynamic and diverse pipeline. As a leading values-based, R&D-driven biopharmaceutical company headquartered in Japan, we are guided by our commitment to patients, our people and the planet. Our employees in approximately 80 countries and regions are driven by our purpose and are grounded in the values that have defined us for more than two centuries. For more information, visit [www.takeda.com](https://www.takeda.com).

### Media Contacts:

Japanese Media

Tsuyoshi Tada

[tsuyoshi.tada@takeda.com](mailto:tsuyoshi.tada@takeda.com)

U.S. and International Media

Lauren Sherman

[lauren.leedberg@takeda.com](mailto:lauren.leedberg@takeda.com)

## Important Notice
For the purposes of this notice, “press release” means this document, any oral presentation, any question and answer session and any written or oral material discussed or distributed by Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited (“Takeda”) regarding this release. This press release (including any oral briefing and any question-and-answer in connection with it) is not intended to, and does not constitute, represent or form part of any offer, invitation or solicitation of any offer to purchase, otherwise acquire, subscribe for, exchange, sell or otherwise dispose of, any securities or the solicitation of any vote or approval in any jurisdiction. No shares or other securities are being offered to the public by means of this press release. No offering of securities shall be made in the United States except pursuant to registration under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or an exemption therefrom. This press release is being given (together with any further information which may be provided to the recipient) on the condition that it is for use by the recipient for information purposes only (and not for the evaluation of any investment, acquisition, disposal or any other transaction). Any failure to comply with these restrictions may constitute a violation of applicable securities laws.

The companies in which Takeda directly and indirectly owns investments are separate entities. In this press release, “Takeda” is sometimes used for convenience where references are made to Takeda and its subsidiaries in general. Likewise, the words “we”, “us” and “our” are also used to refer to subsidiaries in general or to those who work for them. These expressions are also used where no useful purpose is served by identifying the particular company or companies.

## Forward-Looking Statements
This press release and any materials distributed in connection with this press release may contain forward-looking statements, beliefs or opinions regarding Takeda’s future business, future position and results of operations, including estimates, forecasts, targets and plans for Takeda. Without limitation, forward-looking statements often include words such as “targets”, “plans”, “believes”, “hopes”, “continues”, “expects”, “aims”, “intends”, “ensures”, “will”, “may”, “should”, “would”, “could”, “anticipates”, “estimates”, “projects”, “forecasts”, “outlook” or similar expressions or the negative thereof. These forward-looking statements are based on assumptions about many important factors, including the following, which could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements: the economic circumstances surrounding Takeda’s global business, including general economic conditions in Japan and the United States and with respect to international trade relations; competitive pressures and developments; changes to applicable laws and regulations, including tax, tariff and other trade-related rules; challenges inherent in new product development, including uncertainty of clinical success and decisions of regulatory authorities and the timing thereof; uncertainty of commercial success for new and existing products; manufacturing difficulties or delays; fluctuations in interest and currency exchange rates; claims or concerns regarding the safety or efficacy of marketed products or product candidates; the impact of health crises, like the novel coronavirus pandemic; the success of our environmental sustainability efforts, in enabling us to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions or meet our other environmental goals; the extent to which our efforts to increase efficiency, productivity or cost-savings, such as the integration of digital technologies, including artificial intelligence, in our business or other initiatives to restructure our operations will lead to the expected benefits; and other factors identified in Takeda’s most recent Annual Report on Form 20-F and Takeda’s other reports filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, available on Takeda’s website at: [https://www.takeda.com/investors/sec-filings-and-security-reports/](https://www.takeda.com/investors/sec-filings-and-security-reports/) or at [https://www.sec.gov/](https://www.sec.gov/). Takeda does not undertake to update any of the forward-looking statements contained in this press release or any other forward-looking statements it may make, except as required by law or stock exchange rule. Past performance is not an indicator of future results and the results or statements of Takeda in this press release may not be indicative of, and are not an estimate, forecast, guarantee or projection of Takeda’s future results.

## Medical Information
This press release contains information about products that may not be available in all countries, or may be available under different trademarks, for different indications, in different dosages, or in different strengths. Nothing contained herein should be considered a solicitation, promotion or advertisement for any prescription drugs including the ones under development.

Explore Takeda's latest research at ASH 2025, featuring new clinical data in hematologic cancers and rare blood disorders.

Takeda Unveils Pioneering Advances in Hematologic Cancers and Rare Blood Disorders at the 67th American Society of Hematology (ASH) Annual Meeting

Learn more about Takeda's collaboration with Innovent to expand its late-stage oncology pipeline and advance treatments for patients with solid tumors

Takeda Enters Global Strategic Partnership with Innovent Biologics to Bolster Oncology Pipeline with Next-Generation Investigational Medicines for Treatment of Solid Tumors 

Learn about the Europe Approval of Takeda’s ADCETRIS® in newly diagnosed Stage IIb/III/IV Hodgkin lymphoma with chemotherapy, based on Phase 3 HD21

European Commission Approves ADCETRIS® (brentuximab vedotin) for the Treatment of Adult Patients with Newly Diagnosed Stage IIb/III/IV Hodgkin Lymphoma in Combination with ECADD

Rusfertide Phase 3 study at ASCO 2025 shows reduced phlebotomy and improved hematocrit control in patients with PV

Protagonist and Takeda Announce ASCO Plenary Presentation Highlighting Full 32-Week Results from Phase 3 VERIFY Study of Rusfertide, Showing Reductions in Phlebotomy, Improved Hematocrit Control in Polycythemia Vera

## Oncology News



# Oncology Pipeline&#xA;

Discovering and developing innovative therapies to deliver potentially transformative treatments


Science

/science/

Medicines

/medicines/

Patients

/patients/

Investors

https://www.takeda.com/investors/

Partnerships

/partnerships/

Oncology Careers

/about/careers/

## About Takeda Oncology



# Divider Section

**Author: Awny Farajallah, M.D., Chief Medical Officer, Global Oncology Business Unit**

Over the past several decades, the rapid pace of scientific advancement has catalyzed a revolution in the way we treat cancers. This has led to a stronger focus on survival outcomes, and, in some cancers, many patients are living longer on treatment than ever before thanks to therapeutic developments such as novel targeted therapies and immunotherapy. The improvement in survival rates has created an opportunity – and obligation – to consider factors beyond just survival rates when it comes to the management of the disease.

As we continue to advance treatment options, there has been a growing movement towards prioritizing patient-centered care – considering the individual health status, preferences, values, and goals of patients when making treatment decisions. Balancing clinical outcomes with the real-world experiences of patients can be complex but is necessary to provide the best possible care. 

## Redefining Survival: The Dramatic Impact of Targeted Therapy

Let’s dive a little deeper into one of the reasons we’ve observed such notable improvements in the survival rates for certain cancer types – targeted therapies. Targeted therapies have revolutionized the way some cancers are treated by enabling us to target a genetic mutation that may be driving the cancer. This scientific achievement has dramatically changed the prognosis for certain types of cancers, such as breast and lung.

For example, breast cancer is the second-most common and lethal cancer type in women, and treatment options were previously limited to chemotherapies, radiation, and surgical procedures. For HER2-positive breast cancers specifically, which account for about 20% of all breast cancers, the disease is more aggressive and has a worse prognosis. The development of HER2-targeted drugs has forever changed the treatment approach and patient outcomes. In fact, some treatment combinations for this cancer extend survival to more than 4.5 years, compared to a life expectancy of 1.5 years achieved 14 years ago.1

A similar transformation has occurred in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), another widespread cancer that has been historically difficult to treat and was previously treated with chemotherapy, radiotherapy or a combination of both. Over time, we’ve learned that about 70% of patients with NSCLC have a targetable mutation, such as EGFR, BRAF, ALK or KRAS. With improved diagnostic testing, these patients are being matched with treatments that target their cancer at its source. As a result, in recent years, population-level mortality from NSCLC has fallen sharply.2

In addition to longer survival durations, some targeted therapies have also improved upon the toxicity profiles and administration of standard chemotherapies. For example, in a study comparing neoadjuvant targeted therapy versus neoadjuvant chemotherapy in advanced-stage EGFR-mutant NSCLC, the incidence of grade 3/4 adverse events was found to be significantly less in the targeted therapy group compared to the chemotherapy group.3 Many of these targeted therapies are administered orally, providing a more convenient dosing regimen for patients.4-10 

In the 20+ years since the first targeted therapies for cancer were introduced, they have revolutionized the diagnosis and treatment of patients with breast cancer, lung cancer and many other types of cancer, and made the possibility of extending patients’ lives while improving convenience, adherence and safety, a reality.11 

## From Survival to Survivorship 

While the rise in survival rates is an incredible accomplishment that will continue to be built upon as science advances, it has also brought about a paradigm shift in cancer care. With more cancer survivors living longer and more therapeutic options than ever before, there is greater impetus to evolve how we evaluate factors to identify the best treatment for each patient. 

For example, quality of life (QoL) and method of treatment administration are important real-world factors that should be considered in addition to clinical outcomes, as they play a crucial role in the everyday lives and experiences of patients. 

That said, how they are viewed and prioritized can differ by patient. For example, some patients may prioritize convenience and flexibility in treatment administration, while others may be more concerned about potential side effects or the impact of treatment on their ability to work or socialize. Some patients may prefer oral therapies that can be taken at home, while others may be comfortable with intravenous therapies administered in a clinical setting.

Evaluating these factors alongside traditional clinical standards when determining the best possible treatment ensures we are taking not only a patient’s survival into account – but also their quality of survivorship. Survivorship, in the context of cancer, refers to the journey and life experiences patients must navigate following their cancer diagnosis. Despite advancements in care over the past decade, there are still substantial gaps and challenges that need to be addressed to alleviate the short- and long-term effects of treatments – such as fatigue, cognitive problems, and pain – and their impact on an individual’s survivorship and long-term disease management. 

Because real-world factors and their role in survivorship are often not measured in randomized clinical trials, it’s crucial we invest in real-world evidence research and partner with patients and advocacy groups to understand how patients experience and prioritize factors such as location, family type, socioeconomic status, mental health, support systems, and cultural background and how these considerations influence their decisions.

Ultimately, the goal is to provide patients with the best possible opportunity of achieving long-term survival while also maintaining a good quality of life. This requires a collaborative effort between patients, their healthcare providers, and the healthcare industry to ensure that the unique needs and preferences of each patient are considered to improve care. 

## Looking Ahead

While clinical outcomes will continue to be paramount, as treatment options improve, it is imperative that additional factors are considered, and patients are actively involved in the decision-making process. Considering patient preferences on factors like quality of life, treatment feasibility and emotional well-being alongside considerations on clinical efficacy can help optimize outcomes and patient experience. 

By prioritizing an environment of trust, shared decision-making, and open communication, we can empower individuals to actively participate in their treatment journeys and become informed partners in their own care, which has been shown to improve their perception of quality of care and conversations with physicians.12

The future of cancer treatment lies in embracing an approach that considers a complete picture of patient health, recognizing not only survival as a key outcome but also incorporating the patient's overall well-being, or survivorship. By integrating real-world factors into treatment decision-making, prioritizing patient-centered care, and fostering ongoing research, we can collectively transform the cancer survivorship landscape and, hopefully, empower individuals worldwide to lead fulfilling lives beyond their diagnosis.

## References

1. Mendes D, Alves C, Afonso N, et al. The benefit of HER2-targeted therapies on overall survival of patients with metastatic HER2-positive breast cancer – a systematic review. Breast Cancer Res 17, 140 (2015). https://doi.org/10.1186/s13058-015-0648-2
2. Howlader H, Forjaz G, Mooradian M, et al. The Effect of Advances in Lung-Cancer Treatment on Population Mortality. N Engl J Med 2020;383:640-649. Published 2020 Aug 12. DOI: 10.1056/NEJMoa1916623
3. Chen D, Jin Z, Zhang J, et al. Efficacy and Safety of Neoadjuvant Targeted Therapy vs. Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy for Stage IIIA EGFR-Mutant Non-small Cell Lung Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Front Surg. 2021;8:715318. Published 2021 Aug 19. doi:10.3389/fsurg.2021.715318
4. Assoun S, Lemiale V, Azoulay E. Molecular targeted therapy-related life-threatening toxicity in patients with malignancies. A systematic review of published cases. Intensive Care Med. 2019;45(7):988-997. doi:10.1007/s00134-019-05650-w
5. Atrium Health. Treating Stage IV Lung Cancer With a Pill. Available at: https://atriumhealth.org/dailydose/2018/01/10/treating-stage-iv-lung-cancer-with-a-pill
6. XALKORI Prescribing Information. Pfizer. Available at: https://labeling.pfizer.com/ShowLabeling.aspx?id=676
7. ZYKADIA Prescribing Information. Novartis. Available at: https://www.novartis.com/us-en/sites/novartis_us/files/zykadia.pdf
8. ALECENSA Prescribing Information. Genentech. Available at: https://www.gene.com/download/pdf/alecensa_prescribing.pdf
9. LORBRENA Prescribing Information. Pfizer. Available at: https://labeling.pfizer.com/ShowLabeling.aspx?id=11140
10. ALUNBRIG Prescribinig Information. Takeda. Available at: https://www.alunbrig.com/sites/default/files/2022-10/prescribing-information.pdf
11. American Cancer Society. History of Cancer Treatments: Targeted Therapy. Available at: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/understanding-cancer/history-of-cancer/cancer-treatment-targeted-therapy.html
12. Kehl KL, Landrum MB, Arora NK, et al. Association of Actual and Preferred Decision Roles With Patient-Reported Quality of Care: Shared Decision Making in Cancer Care. JAMA Oncol. 2015;1(1):50–58. doi:10.1001/jamaoncol.2014.112

Over the past several decades, the rapid pace of scientific advancement has catalyzed a revolution in the way we treat cancers. Takeda Oncology │ Leadership │ Article

Living is More Than Surviving: Balancing Clinical Outcomes with Patient Impact

In the United States, colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths, with a projected toll of over 50,000 deaths in 2024. Overall, the lifetime risk of developing CRC is about 1 in 23 for men and 1 in 25 for women.1

When people are diagnosed with later stage or more advanced CRC, it is known as metastatic CRC (mCRC).2 When a cancer metastasizes, it means that cancer cells have spread to other parts of the body.3 When caught early, CRC is often treatable and, in many cases, curable, speaking to the importance of screening and early detection. However, at least 20% of people are diagnosed with CRC in the metastatic stage, and about 50% of people diagnosed with localized CRC will develop metastases over the course of their disease.4,5 After cancer metastasizes, treatment can become much more challenging and as a result, many people experience diminished survival outcomes and quality of life.6

## A Prevalent Cancer, A Lack of Support

While CRC ranks among the most prevalent types of cancers, there are still considerable gaps in care and resources for patients, particularly for those experiencing structural challenges and barriers that impact both treatment access and survival outcomes.

The distribution of CRC and mCRC is not even across U.S. subpopulations; there is a marked difference in incidence among different racial and ethnic groups. For example, Black Americans are about 20% more likely to get CRC and about 40% more likely to die from it than any other racial group in the U.S.7 Additional factors that could impact disease experience with CRC are socioeconomic status, insurance access, geography and environmental exposure, among others.

> There is a wealth of information available around screening and prevention of CRC, but educational resources are sparse by comparison for patients with advanced CRC. While early detection of CRC is the hope, the unfortunate truth is that many people are either diagnosed with advanced CRC or will progress to it over time. Recognizing the challenges and diverse experience of those with mCRC is not widely documented. There is a critical need to develop comprehensive resources to assist the broader community in providing better support, particularly as new treatment options and combinations emerge, offering people more decisions to navigate.
>
> **ASHLEY CALABRESE**
> Associate Director, Policy and Advocacy, US Public Affairs

## A United Purpose to Support Advanced CRC Patients

Joined by a passion to make a difference for advanced CRC patients, Takeda and four leading advocacy organizations are launching a U.S. survey to identify the most pressing needs concerning disease and treatment navigation. Through this collaborative effort, we intend to uncover actionable insights that will help guide the collective development of resources and education to support patients. Our partners include:

**Colorectal Cancer Alliance:** Founded 25 years ago by more than 40 CRC survivors, caregivers and friends, the Alliance advocates for screening, magnifies patient support and accelerates research. It exists to end CRC in our lifetime.

**COLONTOWN:** Founded by a CRC survivor looking to create a disease-specific community, COLONTOWN empowers proactive colorectal cancer patients and caregivers with educational tools and relevant peer-to-peer support.

**BLKHLTH:** BLKHLTH is an Atlanta-based non-profit with a mission to advance the health of Black communities through equity-centered education, advocacy, research and programs.

**Family Reach:** Family Reach is a non-profit that provides non-medical financial support to people facing cancer. They work with patients, providers and community organizations to challenge the systems that force families to choose between their health and their home.

We will be unveiling findings for the survey throughout 2024. To learn more about our partners we are collaborating with, please visit their channels: [Colorectal Cancer Alliance](https://colorectalcancer.org/), [COLONTOWN](https://colontown.org/), [BLKHLTH](https://www.blkhlth.com/) and [Family Reach](https://familyreach.org/).

## References

1. American Cancer Society. Key Statistics for Colorectal Cancer. Available at: <https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/colon-rectal-cancer/about/key-statistics.html>

2. Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. Treatment for Metastatic Colon Cancer. Available at: <https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/types/colon/treatment/metastases>

3. City of Hope Cancer Treatment Centers. Metastatic Colorectal Cancer (stage 4). Available at: <https://www.cancercenter.com/cancer-types/colorectal-cancer/types/metastatic-colorectal-cancer>

4. Biller LH, Schrag D. Diagnosis and Treatment of Metastatic Colorectal Cancer: A Review. JAMA. 2021;325(7):669-685. doi:10.1001/jama.2021.0106

5. Atreya CE, Yaeger R, Chu E. Systemic therapy for metastatic colorectal cancer: from current standards to future molecular targeted approaches. Am Soc Clin Oncol Educ Book. 2017;37:246-256. doi:10.1200/EDBK_175679

6. American Cancer Society. Treatment of colon cancer, by stage. Available at: <https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/colon-rectal-cancer/treating/by-stage-colon.html>

7. American Cancer Society. Colorectal Cancer Rates Higher in African Americans, Rising in Younger People. Available at: <https://www.cancer.org/cancer/latest-news/colorectal-cancer-rates-higher-in-african-americans-rising-in-younger-people.html>

Beyond early detection, how do we bridge the gap in metastatic colorectal cancer care. Learn about Takeda’s partnerships for patient support.

Beyond Early Detection: Bridging the Gaps in Metastatic Colorectal Cancer Support

Technological advances continue to push the boundaries of what's possible. Takeda's Teresa Bitetti discusses how we are leveraging these tools for cancer patients.


 Embracing AI & Emerging Technologies to Advance Cancer Care

**Author: Teresa Bitetti, President, Global Oncology Business Unit**

Many of us have loved ones who have been affected by cancer and understand the immense difficulty of processing a diagnosis and beginning treatment, both for the patient and their support network. Through personal and professional conversations with patients, we also recognize that their challenges often extend far beyond the initial diagnosis.

From financial and job insecurity, to depression and anxiety, to caregiving responsibilities – cancer treatment can be all-consuming. And while developing innovative medicines to treat cancer is at the heart of what we do as a pharmaceutical company, there is a lesser-known part as critical as the medicine – treating the whole patient. It’s this care beyond medicine where we have devoted more support in recent years.

## Mental Health and Well-Being

A cancer diagnosis can take an incredible toll on mental and emotional health, and recognizing changes in mood and behavior are critical during the journey according to the [American Cancer Society](https://www.cancer.org/cancer/managing-cancer/side-effects/emotional-mood-changes.html). Approximately 35% of patients diagnosed with cancer are impacted by a psychiatric disorder, and another 20% experience clinically relevant distressing psychosocial conditions such as demoralization and health anxiety.1 Research has shown that cancer patients receiving mental health support have better outcomes.2 Unfortunately, while mental health support may be a key part of a patient’s treatment journey, it is not always incorporated.3

Fortunately, there are several ways patients can be supported as they navigate the physical and emotional aspects of cancer. I am impressed by the resources that many of our partner patient advocacy organizations such as [CancerCare](https://www.cancercare.org/) provide – including emotional, practical and financial support – to navigate resources and the underlying emotions associated with diagnosis and treatment.

## Life Necessities and Obligations

A cancer diagnosis does not put life on pause. Patients may still need to feed themselves (and also family members), keep a roof over their heads, continue working, among many other aspects of life. Cancer is stressful enough without the added component of determining how to afford life.

Financial hardship impacts one in three patients diagnosed with cancer. And the risks disproportionality affect those who are socioeconomically disadvantaged and working-aged patients.4 The anxiety and stress of affording basic necessities can lead to poorer mental health, which can lead to poorer outcomes, perpetuating a vicious cycle. Fortunately, organizations such as [Family Reach](https://familyreach.org/) provide resources to help patients navigate non-medical expenses. No one should have to make the decision to put treatment on hold to keep food on their table or the lights on at home.

In addition, patients may also be caregivers – to children, to aging parents, to pets – a role that does not disappear at cancer diagnosis. Caregiving can be emotionally and physically taxing even without managing a cancer diagnosis and treatment. Organizations such as [Cancer Support Community](https://www.cancersupportcommunity.org/) offer resources to support dialogue between patient and those in their care as they navigate this journey together.

Cancer treatment is more than medicine. It’s the collaboration and commitment of many stakeholders to ensure that patients receive the care necessary to navigate their journey. At Takeda, I’m proud we partner with patient organizations around the globe – to raise awareness and provide support to help ensure the whole patient is being treated. This is the way we will truly reach our aspiration to cure cancer.

## References:

1. Caruso R, Breitbart W. Mental health care in oncology. Contemporary perspective on the psychosocial burden of cancer and evidence-based interventions. *Epidemiol Psychiatr Sci.* 2020;29:e86. doi:10.1017/S2045796019000866

2. Berchuck JE, Meyer CS, Zhang N, et al. Association of Mental Health Treatment With Outcomes for US Veterans Diagnosed With Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer. *JAMA Oncol.* 2020;6(7):1055-1062. doi:10.1001/jamaoncol.2020.1466

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4. Smith GL, Lopez-Olivo MA, Advani PG, et al. Financial Burdens of Cancer Treatment: A Systematic Review of Risk Factors and Outcomes. *J Natl Compr Canc Netw.* 2019;17(10):1184-1192. doi:10.6004/jnccn.2019.7305

Hear from Teresa Bitetti, President of the Global Oncology Business Unit, as she discusses how Takeda and its partners are providing cancer care beyond medicine by supporting other areas of patients' lives, such as finances and mental health.

Cancer Treatment is More Than Medicine

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