An immunotherapy/chemotherapy combo drug has been found to significantly improve survival rates in early-stage breast cancer patients according to a recent trial. The drug, Kadcyla, originally approved for advanced HER2-positive breast cancer, has shown promising results in keeping patients cancer-free for years.
Outstanding Long-Term Outcomes
A study led by Dr. Sara Tolaney, Chief of Breast Oncology at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston, revealed that patients with stage 1 HER2-positive breast cancer who underwent treatment with Kadcyla remained free of invasive cancer five years post-treatment. This outcome highlights the potential of Kadcyla as a viable treatment option for select patients.
The Impact of HER2-Positive Breast Cancers
HER2-positive breast cancers, fueled by an overexpression of the HER2 protein, are known to be aggressive and have a higher likelihood of recurrence. The combination of trastuzumab, an immunotherapy drug targeting HER2, along with chemotherapy has proven to be effective in reducing the risk of cancer recurrence post-surgery.
Improving Quality of Life
Dr. Paolo Tarantino, the lead researcher, mentioned that while the efficacy of trastuzumab and chemotherapy is well-established, the side effects can significantly impact patients' quality of life. Kadcyla, combining trastuzumab with emtansine, aims to provide the benefits of both treatments while minimizing adverse effects.
Positive Clinical Trial Results
In a clinical trial involving 512 patients, Kadcyla demonstrated impressive results with 97% of patients being cancer-free five years after treatment. Additionally, patients on Kadcyla reported better quality of life compared to those receiving chemotherapy and trastuzumab separately, with reduced side effects such as nerve damage and hair loss.
Looking Ahead
The findings of this study, funded in part by Genentech, highlight the potential of Kadcyla as a valuable treatment option for early-stage breast cancer patients. The results, published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology, provide new insights into improving outcomes and quality of life for individuals battling breast cancer.
For more information on trastuzumab and its role in cancer treatment, visit the National Cancer Institute's website.
SOURCE: Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, news release, June 27, 2024