She was immediately referred to a medical oncologist who advised her to undergo 3 cycles of chemotherapy comprising Carboplatin and Paclitaxel. Neelam had to undergo surgery after this, followed by 5 cycles of chemotherapy again – this time with Bevacizumab.

Bevacizumab is a humanised monoclonal antibody that prevents the process of angiogenesis (new vessels’ formation) and helps patients with ovarian cancer by preventing further cancerous growth. In 2018, the NCCN guideline approved the use of Bevacizumab in combination with Carboplatin and Paclitaxel, followed by Bevacizumab alone, for patients with advanced (Stage III or IV) epithelial ovarian, fallopian tube, or primary peritoneal cancer following initial surgery.

This world-class biosimilar has brought immense relief to patients like Neelam, who need both affordable and accessible cancer care. Today, it is widely accepted as a standard treatment option in combination with chemotherapy. Since biologic products require stringent storage conditions to maintain purity and potency, Biocon developed the world’s first and only Bevacizumab product with a unique ‘Qual-Check’ mechanism that ensures patients get a quality-ascertained product right up to infusion.

Currently, Neelam is not only fighting cancer bravely, but also living a normal life, while bringing hope to many patients like her. “A positive mindset can help win over cancer, so never give up on that,” she says smiling. For millions like Neelam, this is the beginning of a new chapter in life. For us, this is the beginning of a new chapter in affordable healthcare.