Affidea Group, the pan-European provider of specialist healthcare services, including cancer care, advanced diagnostic imaging and community-based polyclinics, announced today the acquisition of Instituts für histologische und zytologische Diagnostik AG, in Switzerland.
This acquisition adds two high-quality pathology laboratories - one in Zollikon next to Zürich, close to Affidea’s Centre of Excellence in Breast Cancer, Brust-Zentrum Zurich, and another one in Aarau, Argovia.
With the addition of histopathology, molecular pathology, and cytology diagnostics, Affidea Switzerland now provides a fully integrated and seamless cancer care pathway, covering prevention, early detection, genetic testing, precise diagnosis, personalised treatment, and post-treatment support.
The newly-acquired pathology laboratories are recognised for their outstanding quality standards and rapid biopsy and cytology processing. Biopsy results are delivered within 24 to 48 hours, and urgent cases receive an initial diagnosis on the same day if submitted by noon. Additionally, the laboratories offer next-generation prognostic genomic testing, which allows for personalised breast cancer treatment planning by predicting individual risks of early and late recurrence over a 15-year period.
Commenting on the acquisition, Dr Charles Niehaus, Executive Director of Affidea Group, stated: “This acquisition highlights our commitment to increasing patients’ access to fully- integrated oncology pathways. By integrating critical histopathological analysis into our Affidea cancer diagnostics, we ensure that patients receive more personalised diagnosis and prognosis to support effective treatment plans, ultimately improving clinical outcomes. I am delighted to welcome the highly-qualified team of Instituts für histologische und zytologische Diagnostik AG to the Affidea network and look forward to further building upon our joint expertise.”
M
arc-Andre Christinat, Country CEO for Switzerland, added: “With this acquisition, Affidea Switzerland offers a holistic approach to oncology. These services will allow us to enhance our diagnostic capabilities in combination with our existing imaging centres. It will also allow Affidea Switzerland to provide a more end-to-end patient-focused pathway in oncology. I look forward to advancing our vision for integrated cancer care, expanding our capabilities, and delivering high-quality and accessible care across Switzerland.
Dr Milo Horcic, Specialist FMH in Pathology, and one of the owners of Instituts für histologische und zytologische Diagnostik AG, stated:"By joining Affidea Group, our goal was to ensure the long-term sustainability of our institute and provide it with the best conditions for continued growth. This transition guarantees the continuity of our mission while creating new opportunities for our clients and our team."
A growing need for comprehensive cancer care in Switzerland
Cancer remains the second leading cause of death in Switzerland, accounting for 25% of total fatalities. Each year, more than 45,000 new cancer cases are diagnosed, resulting in approximately 17,000 deaths[1]. Moreover, the proportion of cancer cases among younger individuals (under 50 years old) is rising significantly, highlighting the urgent need for integrated and advanced oncology solutions.
Affidea’s legal advisors for the transaction were Chabrier Avocats LLC, while KMPG AG provided finance & tax services. Gut Corporate Finance AG supported the Sell-side as transaction Advisors, while Niederer Kraft Frey Ltd provided legal and tax services.
Source & Image Credit: Affidea
[1] OECD Data - https://www.oecd.org/content/dam/oecd/en/publications/reports/2024/11/tackling-the-impact-of-cancer-on-health-the-economy-and-society-country-notes_db760f3f/switzerland_2f3e7257/0e8018c0-en.pdf