Game Changing Neoadjuvant Lung Trial Enrolls the Most People in the World
March 16, 2022 – Charleston Oncology’s Clinical Trials most recent non–small cell lung cancer trial enrolled the most people in the world. Gene Saylors, MD, oncologist and hematologist at Charleston Oncology, will present the positive findings at the American Association for Cancer Research 2022 Annual Meeting. “When administering a new trial, we are always cautiously optimistic,” says Dr. Gene Saylors. “The positive results of this Neoadjuvant Lung Trial resulted in rapid FDA approval due to its impressive outcomes.”
Neoadjuvant Opdivo (nivolumab) plus chemotherapy significantly improves event-free survival in patients with resectable Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer in Phase 3 CheckMate -816 Trial. The trial adds immunotherapy and chemotherapy for nine weeks before lung surgery. “The patients who had immunotherapy, when they went to surgery, 24% or nearly 1 in 4, the cancer was all gone. When you just gave chemotherapy for that same duration, in only 2% of the patients was the cancer gone. So, it’s just a game-changer,” Saylors said.
This protocol, called Checkmate 816, delivered significantly better outcomes than patients going straight to surgery. Per Bristol Myers Squibb’s November 2021 published findings, CheckMate -816 is the first Phase 3 trial with an immunotherapy-based combination to demonstrate improved event-free survival and pathologic complete response in the neoadjuvant setting of non-small cell lung cancer.
Positive results reinforce the improved efficacy of Opdivo-based treatments in four Phase 3 clinical trials in earlier-stage cancers, including lung cancer, bladder cancer, esophageal/gastroesophageal junction cancer, and melanoma.
Charleston Oncology provides the largest number of oncology and hematology clinical trials in the greater Charleston area. Located in West Ashley, North Charleston, Mount Pleasant, Downtown Peninsula Charleston, Summerville, and Walterboro, Charleston Oncology is a full-service oncology and hematology practice with eleven physicians. To schedule an appointment or learn more, visit www.CharlestonOncology.com.
Send UsA Message
Early-Stage Breast Cancer Characteristics and Treatment Options
Early-Stage Breast Cancer Characteristics and Treatment OptionsA rise in early-stage breast cancer diagnosis may result from better screening technology and a raised awareness of the importance of annual mammograms. An early-stage breast cancer diagnosis is contained...
Lowcountry doctors, patients helped secure ‘game-changer’ cancer treatment approval
Clinical trials for a newly-approved cancer treatment for lung cancer in the Lowcountry helped get the drug ready for people around the world, Lowcountry medical officials say.
Lowcountry Breast Cancer Survivors On Finding The Right Oncology Practice
How should one go about finding the right oncology practice? We interviewed ten Lowcountry breast cancer patients to get their perspectives and advice.
Sarcoma and Bone Cancer Awareness
July is Sarcoma and Bone Cancer Awareness Month. Sarcomas are a rare group of cancers in which malignant cells form in the bones or soft tissues of the body.
May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month
Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that develops when melanocytes start to grow out of control. Watch a video to learn more about melanoma from Dr. Charles S. Holladay.
Welcome Social Worker Elizabeth Robinson
Possessing the values of acceptance, tolerance, and genuine care, Liz is an embodiment of the field of Social Work. “I could not imagine my life without Social Work in it. It’s part of who I am,” shared Liz.
