Breakthrough Cervical Cancer Treatment: Pre-Radiation Chemo Boosts Survival by 40%, Study Finds
October 14, 2024Conducted over a decade from 2012 to 2022, the trial involved 500 patients across 32 medical centers in five countries, including Brazil, the UK, Mexico, Italy, and India.
These promising results have prompted calls for the new treatment to be implemented across the UK and internationally.
Cervical cancer remains a significant global health issue, claiming approximately 350,000 lives annually, with effective treatment often requiring a combination of chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
The FDA's recent approval of a self-collection option for HPV testing aims to make cervical cancer screenings more accessible, further supporting early detection efforts.
Published in The Lancet, these findings mark the most significant advancement in cervical cancer treatment in over 20 years.
The new treatment plan, which includes six weeks of chemotherapy, has been shown to reduce the likelihood of disease recurrence by 35%.
Survival rates after five years were notably higher, with 80% of patients receiving the new treatment alive compared to 72% in the standard treatment group.
Lead investigator Dr. Mary McCormack advocates for the new treatment's adoption, highlighting its low cost and the availability of existing drug approvals.
Experts, including Dr. Iain Foulkes from Cancer Research UK, emphasize that the timing of chemotherapy and radiotherapy is crucial for maximizing treatment success.
A recent clinical trial has demonstrated that a short course of chemotherapy before radiation therapy significantly enhances survival rates for cervical cancer patients.
The study, led by University College London, revealed a 40% reduction in death risk and a 35% decrease in cancer recurrence over at least five years.
Despite these advancements, cervical cancer still recurs in about 30% of cases, underscoring the need for continued research and improved treatment options.
Summary based on 6 sources
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Sources
The Guardian • Oct 14, 2024
New cervical cancer treatment regime ‘cuts risk of dying from disease by 40%’Forbes • Oct 16, 2024
New Cervical Cancer Treatment Regimen Cuts Risk Of Death By 40%The Mirror • Oct 14, 2024
New survival hope for cervical cancer after 'Jade Goody effect' evaporates