# AstraZeneca profits jump by 40% amid strong demand for cancer drugs

By Derren Nathan — 2026-02-10

Derren Nathan, head of equity research at Hargreaves Lansdown, said: “AstraZeneca’s relentless quest for novel and effective cancer treatments has seen these treatments become the company’s largest and fastest growing revenue line.

“Class leadership in multiple medicines, as well as six key regulatory approvals in the final quarter of the year, means the oncology division is set for a further upward trajectory in 2026.

“Looking further ahead, the pipeline is aiming to extend the company’s reach across targeted chemotherapies (ADCs), immunotherapy, hormone-based treatment, and entities that interfere with tumour repair mechanisms.

“Given the pace of research and track record of delivery the target of marketing over 25 blockbuster drugs by 2030, compared to today’s slate of 16, doesn’t seem to be an over-extension.

“It’s not only cancer being targeted by the white coats.

“Autoimmune illnesses, cardiovascular conditions and rare diseases are also areas of focus.

“With short-term guidance broadly as expected, the shares haven’t budged much today, and investors may be hoping that continued pipeline delivery will result in an upgrade to medium-term financial guidance as the year progresses.”

Canonical: https://experts.pressassociation.com/expert/72/views/5dd4f9d0c99a7027