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New Delhi: Lung cancer is a devastating disease that claims millions of lives worldwide each year. However, a recent groundbreaking study has revealed a potential game-changer in the fight against this formidable cancer. Researchers have discovered a revolutionary pill that demonstrates the ability to reduce the risk of death by half.
A recent study published in The New England Journal of Medicine highlights the remarkable effects of a newly developed pill on lung cancer patients. The results show that when one pill is taken daily after the tumour-removal surgery, it reduced the risk of death by 51%. The drug is none other than Osimertinib.
The researchers randomly assigned eligible patients in a 1:1 ratio to receive osimertinib (80 mg once daily) or placebo until disease recurrence was observed.
The Experiment:
As per a PTI report, out of 682 patients who underwent randomisation, 339 received osimertinib also known as Tagrisso and made by AstraZeneca, and 343 received placebo. In the primary analysis population, an estimated 85 per cent of patients treated with osimertinib were alive at five years compared to 73 per cent on placebo, the researchers said.
In the overall trial population, an estimated 88 per cent of patients treated with osimertinib were alive at five years compared to 78 per cent on placebo. The study found that osimertinib reduced the risk of death by 51 per cent compared to placebo in both the primary analysis population, the researchers further said.
What Do Experts Say:
In this regard, ABP Live sought the opinions of doctors who explained how effective the drug is, under what conditions can be and whether it can be a potential treatment option to market.
Dr. Swapnil Mehta who is a Pulmonologist at Dr LH Hiranandani Hospital, Powai told that this new development is a ray of hope for patients and medical professionals alike.
He further went on to explain that the pill, which is still in the trial phase, represents a significant advance in the fight against this deadly disease and if the results of this study are confirmed in further studies and approval procedures, it can have a decisive impact on treatment strategies for lung cancer.
“The dedication of researchers and physicians to finding new treatments and therapies is truly impressive. Of course, it is important to view these results with cautious optimism, as further research and validation are needed to confirm the pill’s effectiveness and ensure its safety. Rigorous testing and regulatory approvals are essential steps to bring this potential treatment option to market”, he said.
Nevertheless, this study emphasises the significant developments in oncology and the expanding possibilities for customised and targeted treatments.
Dr. Rajkumar who is a Sr. Consultant of Internal Medicine, at the Indian Spinal Injuries Centre, New Delhi, said, “As claimed by the study, the effectiveness of this pill is truly remarkable, as it has the potential to dramatically improve outcomes and prolong the lives of individuals diagnosed with lung cancer. The pill targets specific mechanisms within the body that contribute to the growth and spread of cancer cells. By inhibiting these processes, it can effectively slow down or even halt the progression of the disease.”
Lung cancer is one of the top causes of cancer-related deaths globally. With the help of this new medication, lung cancer may be treated as a chronic condition as opposed to a terminal sickness, improving quality of life and survival rates.
Lastly, Dr Indu Bansal Aggarwal, Director of Radiation Oncology at Narayana Superspeciality Hospital Gurugram added who can actually benefit from the drug and how the pill works. Additionally, she also laid emphasis on how the healthcare sector in India will benefit from this development.
She said, “As per the latest findings, selected patients with lung cancer if treated with a pill can have a potential reduction in the risk of death. The patients who exhibit EGFR receptors on their tumours and do not smoke can benefit from this drug.”
“The healthcare sector in India can benefit greatly from this development by improving patient outcomes, reducing healthcare costs, and easing the burden on healthcare facilities. The pill works by obstructing the growth and spread of lung cancer cells, thereby lowering the risk of death in such cases. While the study’s findings are promising, it is important to conduct further research and clinical trials to confirm its long-term efficacy and safety. Potential side effects may vary depending on the pill, but it is crucial for healthcare professionals to closely monitor patients, emphasise about smoking cessation and manage any adverse reactions that may occur.”, she further added.
Although the results of this study are undoubtedly encouraging, further research and clinical trials are needed to confirm the efficacy and safety profile of the pill. Rigorous testing on a larger scale is required to confirm the results, determine the optimal dosage, and identify potential long-term effects as suggested by the experts.
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