Astellas Pharma introduces first of its kind treatment for anaemia associated with chronic kidney disease in Egypt

 Astellas Pharma Inc. introduced a new treatment for adults with anaemia associated with CKD,1 a debilitating condition which causes some to experience severe symptoms and struggle with day-to-day activities, during a press conference on Thursday.

CKD is a progressive disease characterised by gradual loss of kidney function that may eventually lead to kidney failure or end-stage kidney disease, requiring dialysis or kidney transplant.7 In 2019, the burden of CKD had increased by 36% in Egypt since 2009, with CKD ranking fifth among the leading causes of death in the country.

Anaemia is a common complication of CKD that can be observed early in the development of the condition,8 defined by low levels of haemoglobin, a protein found in red blood cells that carries oxygen around the body.8 Anaemia of CKD has a multifactorial impact on the body which leads to a progressively negative impact on a patient’s quality of life, often providing challenges with mobility, self-care and day-to-day activities for people living with the condition.6 Additionally, untreated anaemia of CKD is associated with an increased risk of hospitalisation, cardiovascular complications and worsening kidney function.

Speaking at a press conference to introduce this new treatment, Nilay Tarr, General Manager of Astellas Egypt, said: “CKD continues to be a major public health concern in Egypt, due to its rapidly increasing incidence, and there is a significant unmet medical need when it comes to treatment options for patients with anaemia of CKD.”