Additionally, tPSA is used in monitoring the treatment progress of prostate cancer patients. A prostate biopsy is required for the diagnosis of prostate cancer. According to the National Institutes of Health, there were 180,400 new cases and 31,900 deaths in 2000.
Early detection is paramount.
With increased public awareness and screening programs, prostate cancer death rates have steadily decreased over the years. Headquartered in Basel, Switzerland, Roche is one of the world's leading research-oriented healthcare groups in the fields of pharmaceuticals, diagnostics and vitamins. Roche's innovative products and services address needs for the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of disease, thus enhancing people's well-being and quality of life. Roche has approximately 63,900 employees and sells its products in more than 170 countries. The Roche Group posted sales of 20.3 billion Swiss francs in the first nine months of 2000.