Breast Cancer Drug Improves Survival Rates For UK Pancreatic Cancer Patients
Nab-paclitaxel, marketed to patients as Abraxane, is a breast cancer drug which has shown potential for treating pancreatic cancer. Abraxane has been researched as a treatment option for patients with pancreatic cancer in tandem with chemotherapy. Patients using Abraxane saw average survival rates climb from 6.7 months to 8.5 months. The one and two year survival rates increased significantly, as well. One year survival rates increased from 22% to 35% and two year rates increased from 4% to 9%.
Researchers are optimistic because pancreatic cancer is extremely deadly, and in the UK it is fatal within one year for 80% of patients. Alex Ford, the CEO of Pancreatic Cancer UK, was quoted as saying, “With so few treatment options available to patients, we know that they want access to new and effective treatments such as Abraxane. Therefore, the launch of this medicine is greatly welcomed as an additional treatment option for patients with metastatic pancreatic cancer.”
David Cunningham, Clinical Research Director at Royal Marsden Hospital, believes that the research is a strong step in the right direction. “Today's news represents a significant step forward in the treatment of metastatic pancreatic cancer. It is important that nab-paclitaxel, which has demonstrated an increase in overall survival, should be available for patients with this cancer.”
Abraxane remains an expensive drug, costing up to 600 pounds per month for patients. It is now becoming available for use at private health clinics for pancreatic cancer patients.
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