Oslo, Norway, 17 June 2003
As a part of the prelaunch activities for the introduction of Hexvix® detection of bladder cancer on the Nordic markets, PhotoCure organised a satellite symposium at the Scandinavian congress for urologists, which was recently held in Bergen, Norway. At the symposium, key clinical data from the Hexvix® development program were presented.
The speakers at the symposium are all highly recognized clinicians and scientists who have participated in the development of Hexvix®. Professor Malmstrøm (Sweden), chairman of the symposium, summarized by concluding that Hexvix® improves detection of bladder cancer, improves patient management and has no known toxicity. Professor Lange (Switzerland) gave an introduction to the biochemistry and the optical instruments.
Professor Marberger (Austria) presented the results from the first multicentre study, including 19 centres and 286 patients. He concluded that significantly more dangerous cancers (carcinoma in situ) are detected with Hexvix® compared to standard white light cystoscopy, and that Hexvix® will be an important tool for improved detection of bladder cancer. Professor Jocham (Germany) presented another European multicentre trial, which confirms the excellent results from Professor Marberger's study. In addition, this trial shows that Hexvix® leads to important changes in patient management, with clear benefits for the patients.
The high number of attendees and all the questions raised during the symposium shows that there is a positive attitude and high interest for Hexvix®. PhotoCure will introduce Hexvix® on the Nordic markets following marketing approval of the product. At the end of 2002, a marketing authorisation application was filed in Sweden as the first step in a European approval procedure.
President of PhotoCure, Professor Vidar Hansson, says: "I am proud that PhotoCure has such excellent data to present for Hexvix®. This together with the high level of interest makes us feel even more confident that Hexvix® will become a commercial success."