Breakthrough for Pancreatic Cancer Therapy

The FDA announced on Friday, September 6 that it approved the use of Abraxane in combination with Gemcitabine as first line treatment of patients with advanced, metastatic pancreatic cancer. The approval came as a result of successful clinical trials that demonstrated a clinically meaningful increase in overall survival with a good safety profile.  The trials increased overall survival by 30% ( 8.5 vs. 6.7 months);  1 year survival rates increased by 60% and 2 year survival rates more than doubled - considered a statistically significant improvement. This combination of drugs will now be the standard of care recommended for most patients.  For more than 15 years, gemcitabine alone has been considered the standard of care. The clinical trials were led by Dr. Daniel Von Hoff, one of the co-leaders of the Pancreatic Cancer Dream Team that the Lustgarten Foundation presently funds along with Stand Up To Cancer. The Foundation expresses gratitude to Dr. Von Hoff, his team, and Celgene, the manufacturer of the drug.  We are funding further trials conducted by Dr. Von Hoff to test additional applications of the drug to improve effectiveness, including varying the dosages, time intervals, and other combinations. We want to share this encouraging news that can rightfully be considered a breakthrough.  Thank you for your continued support – remember, Cablevision’s support of The Lustgarten Foundation ensures that 100% of every donation goes directly to pancreatic cancer research.