Express Investigation: How a life saving cancer drug is counterfeited

While advances in early detection and treatment have reduced cancer deaths in many parts of the world, that progress hasn’t reached everyone. In India, cancer cases are rising, with nearly 14 lakh diagnoses in 2022—and access to life-saving drugs remains a major challenge.

An investigation by The Indian Express, in collaboration with the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists, reveals how one of the world’s leading cancer drugs, Keytruda, remains out of reach for many patients. It also uncovers how gaps in regulation have allowed counterfeit versions of the drug to enter the market.

Drawing on over 12,000 documents and records of more than 150 patients, the investigation lays bare the scale of the problem—and its human cost. In this episode, we speak with The Indian Express' Kaunain Sheriff and Anonna Dutt, who led this investigation.

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Edited and mixed by Suresh Pawar