Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer among women. The earlier breast cancer is detected and treated, the greater the chances of recovery. At MSD, we are committed to strengthening early detection. That’s why, in 2022, we initiated the PINK CUBE – an ever-growing breast cancer awareness initiative. We are proud that PINK CUBE has been recognized with two awards.
4. April 2025
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PINK CUBE Test Your Breast was awarded the prestigious Audience Award and the Responsibility Award from SPONSORING SCHWEIZ at the 6th Night of Sponsoring at the Kunsthaus Zürich in the presence of around 280 guests. This award recognizes PINK CUBE Test Your Breast as a unique and innovative initiative built on strong partnerships and sponsors with a common goal: to fight breast cancer.
PINK CUBE Test Your Breast
PINK CUBE Test Your Breast is a unique initiative aimed at raising awareness about breast cancer and the important role of early detection. In the PINK CUBE, gynecologists offer free consultations and breast palpations. Visitors learn what a lump feels like and how to self-examine their breasts to detect changes.
In addition, PINK CUBE Test Your Breast actively engages with the media and policymakers to advocate for the implementation of organized mammography screening programs in all Swiss cantons.
2024 Results
During the Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October 2024, the pink container visited five cantons and reached over 2.7 million people in the media with its important message about early detection.
Nearly 500 people were screened in the PINK CUBE, with possible signs of breast cancer detected in 32 women and 2 men. At the same time, the PINK CUBE contributed to progress in the political discussions around the introduction of mammography screening programs.
These achievements were only made possible through strong partnerships and the multi-sponsorship support of companies including MSD, Gilead, Roche, Exact Sciences, Novartis, AstraZeneca, and Eli Lilly.
Dimitri Gitas, Managing Director MSD Schweiz
„We are proud to have launched this important breast cancer awareness initiative and to continue supporting it as a main sponsor,” says Dimitri Gitas, Managing Director of MSD Switzerland. ”The success of PINK CUBE clearly demonstrates the need for equal access to cancer prevention and early detection – a goal that can be achieved through a national cancer strategy.“
Coverage of mammography costs in the early detection program
If a test is carried out as part of an early detection program, the costs are covered by the basic insurance without being added to the deductible. Participating women only pay the excess of ten percent (about 20 francs). Women aged 50 and over receive informational materials and an invitation to an early detection mammogram by post every two years.
PINK CUBE Test Your Breast 2025 Roadshow
In September and October 2025, the PINK CUBE will visit the 11 cantons that have not yet implemented a mammography screening program.
Inside Schachen: a glance at our high-tech development center
Our MSD site in Schachen in the Canton of Lucerne is no ordinary site. It is a fusion of the most modern technology, innovative research and development, and an inspiring work environment.
13.07.2023
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Our site in Schachen plays a key role in the development of new, innovative medicines. Since its establishment in 1976, the site has continually grown. Today, about 490 employees from 30 countries work in Schachen.
Here is what we do in Schachen:
01.
We manufacture biotechnological active substances.
In Schachen, we have at our disposal biotechnical production on a clinical scale for producing new active substances, as well as capacities for sterile filling of new medicines.
02.
We supply medicines for global clinical studies.
Schachen is one of only two sites in MSD’s global network that provides new medicines for clinical studies worldwide. Here, the clinical test samples are packed, labeled and then shipped to clinical sites all over the world. The strictly monitored studies show whether the new medicines are effective and safe.
03.
We develop analytical methods for new active substances and medicines.
Analytical development is one of our main areas. In various specialized laboratories, we examine cell cultures, conduct tests with bioassays and offer everything needed to develop analysis methods for new active substances and medicines, from PCR analytics and mass spectroscopy to biochemical analyzes.
04.
We work on analysis methods that allow a continuous production process to be seamlessly monitored and controlled.
Continuous production processes in the pharmaceutical industry are still the exception because the technical and regulatory requirements are very high.
05.
We operate a forensic laboratory in which suspected cases of counterfeit medicines are investigated.
In Schachen, we operate one of three forensic laboratories worldwide with the goal of quickly detecting manipulations and counterfeits of MSD products. Our scientists work with the aid of analytical methods and highly specialized instruments to differentiate counterfeits from original products and, if necessary, to present the results in court as experts to support corresponding criminal prosecutions. They also work on further optimizing the counterfeit protection of MSD products worldwide.
«At the Schachen site, it’s not just a matter of the most modern technology and innovative research, but primarily about people. I am incredibly proud of our team, which works passionately and is committed to improve the lives of patients with ground-breaking discoveries and the development of new medicines. Their untiring commitment makes Schachen a place where we achieve greatness together.»
MSD Switzerland awarded with the Swiss LGBTI Label
On June 16th 2021, MSD was awarded the with the Swiss LGBTI Label, a certification awarded to companies and organizations with an open and inclusive culture. This certification is intended to help promote the inclusion of LGBTI people at the workplace and beyond.
16.06.2021
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The Swiss LGBTI-Label is a seal of quality for organizations based in Switzerland, or Swiss organizations that work for the internal equality of LGBTI persons. LGBTI means persons who differ from the majority of the population in their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Diversity and Inclusion
At MSD Switzerland we believe that a diverse and inclusive workforce inspires innovation and is fundamental to our company’s success. While there has been great progress when it comes to LGBTQ+ rights, there is still work to be done — and we’re proud to play a role in achieving those goals. MSD has a longstanding tradition of supporting the LGBTQ+ community, in our company and beyond. Having an environment comprised of people from different dimensions of diversity also helps us better understand the unique needs of the customers, health care providers and patients we serve, including those with different abilities.
The Swiss LGBTI label executive board said:
“We congratulate MSD for receiving our Swiss LGBTI label. The label recognizes the exceptional work done by MSD to foster equality and inclusion of LGBTI People in the workplace. MSD went successfully through a very comprehensive assessment of the inclusiveness of its organizational practices. We applaud the very positive journey engaged by MSD, its contribution to societal positive change and its impact beyond its industry.”
