Competition Commission wants Roche prosecuted for pricing of breast cancer treatment
The Competition Commission has referred healthcare company Roche for prosecution for its alleged overpricing of a breast cancer treatment.
It says over ten thousand breast cancer patients in both healthcare sectors were unable to be treated with TRASTU-ZUMAB between 2011 and 2019 because they couldn't afford it.
The drug is sold under Roche brands in the country.
It's said to stem the development of an aggressive type of breast cancer.
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Spokesperson Siyabulela Makunga says the Switzerland-based company is in contravention of competition laws.
"The excessive pricing drug is tantamount to violation of some of the fundamental human rights that are enshrined in our Constitution, including the right of access to healthcare.
"The commission has therefore asked the tribunal to impose the maximum penalty to Roche for its alleged harmful and life-limiting conduct."
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