According to recent statistics, from 2017 to 2021, cancer claimed 29,500 lives in Singapore, with a total of 84,002 reported cancer cases[1]. BeiGene's Zanubrutinib, a small molecule inhibitor of Bruton’s tyrosine kinase (BTK), has been recognized by the MOH for its efficacy and clinical benefits, marking a significant milestone in the fight against cancer.

The approved indications for Zanubrutinib on the CDL include:

1. Treatment of patients with mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) who have received at least one prior therapy[2].

2. Monotherapy for patients with Waldenstrom’s macroglobulinemia who have received at least one prior therapy[3].

3. Monotherapy for previously untreated Waldenstrom’s macroglobulinemia in patients who are unsuitable for chemo-immunotherapy[3].

4. Monotherapy for relapsed or refractory marginal zone lymphoma (MZL) in patients who have received at least one prior anti-CD20-based regimen[3].

5. Monotherapy for chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) or small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL) in patients who have received at least one prior therapy[4].

6. Monotherapy for previously untreated chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) or small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL) in patients who are unsuitable for fludarabine-based therapy[4].

The CDL consists of clinically proven, cost-effective cancer treatments that are reimbursable under Singapore's MediShield Life, MediSave, and Integrated Shield Plans[5-6]. Furthermore, Zanubrutinib is covered under the Medication Assistance Fund (MAF), which subsidizes high-cost drugs to ensure better access to more affordable care[7].

Zanubrutinib, a product of groundbreaking research by BeiGene scientists, is a small molecule inhibitor of Bruton’s tyrosine kinase (BTK) currently undergoing evaluation globally in a broad clinical program. Its unique design ensures complete and sustained inhibition of the BTK protein by optimizing bioavailability, half-life, and selectivity. Differentiated pharmacokinetics compared to other approved BTK inhibitors have demonstrated Zanubrutinib's ability to inhibit the proliferation of malignant B cells within various disease-relevant tissues.

BeiGene remains committed to advancing innovative solutions for cancer patients worldwide, and the inclusion of Zanubrutinib in Singapore's CDL underscores the company's dedication to providing effective and accessible treatment options for those in need.