A new treatment approach can significantly improve survival rates for patients with aggressive, inherited breast cancer, a study suggests. The trial, led by Addenbrookes Hospital in Cambridge, and published in Nature Communications, involved women with early-stage breast cancer who have inherited BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations. Giving them the targeted drug olaparib before surgery greatly reduced the chances of the cancer coming back. More than 1,200 patients a year in the UK could benefit from the change in practice if a larger clinical trial can confirm the findings. The Hollywood starAngelina Jolie raised awareness of inherited breast cancer genes in 2013when she had a double mastectomy to cut her risk of getting the disease. Jackie Van Bochoven, 59, from Cambridgeshire, has a family history of breast cancer and carries a faulty copy of the BRCA1 gene, which significantly raises her risk of the disease during her lifetime. She was diagnosed with an aggressive breast tumour in 2019 and took part in the trial. "When I had the diagnosis I was completely shocked," she told BBC News. "Six years on, I'm well and cancer free. It's amazing." Jackie's mother and sister both had breast cancer. She has three daughters and the eldest, Danielle, also carries the inherited BRCA gene mutation. "For my future generations, if they have got the BRCA gene, it is a new hope," Jackie said. Around one in 400 people carry mutations in either the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes. Cancer Research UK estimates about seven in 10 women with changes in these genes will develop breast cancer, compared to about one in seven women without these mutations. For men with BRCA mutations, the risks of developing breast cancer are much lower. Olaparib is the first targeted drug treatment for cancers with mutations in the BRCA genes and is given as a tablet. It works by stopping cancer cells from being able to repair their DNA by blocking a protein called PARP, which causes the cancerous cells to die. The trial, named Partner, took place at 23 sites in England, Scotland and Wales. Before surgery, 39 women with early stage breast cancer were given olaparib, also known as Lynparza, together with chemotherapy. They started olaparib tablets 48 hours after each chemotherapy infusion. After three years, all had survived. By contrast there were six deaths among 45 women in the study who received chemotherapy before surgery but did not get olaparib. Prof, Jean Abraham, a consultant at Addenbrookes and professor of precision breast cancer medicine at the University of Cambridge, who led the trial, described the results as were "really exciting". "It is rare that you see 100% survival at 36 months for this subtype of breast cancer. We're incredibly excited about the potential of this new approach." The findings have the potential to be applied to other BRCA-related cancers, such as ovarian, prostate and pancreatic." Prof Abraham said a larger, multinational trial is planned next year, involving some 600 patients. She predicted that if the findings are repeated, it will lead to a major change in clinical practice for more than 1,200 patients a year in the UK. Currently patients are given olaparib for a year after surgery, whereas on the trial patients took the tablets over 12 weeks pre-surgery, and at half the dose. Prof Abraham said: "From a cost perspective, it would save the NHS a considerable amount of money because it's a fraction of the time and dose of the drug." Michelle Mitchell, chief executive of Cancer Research UK, said: "While this research is still in its infancy, it is an exciting discovery that adding olaparib at a carefully-timed stage of treatment can potentially give patients with this specific type of breast cancer more time with their loved ones." Although the trial involved only women, Prof Abraham said the olaparib results would also apply to the much smaller number of men with the BRCA mutation who get breast cancer. The trial was funded by Cancer Research UK and AstraZeneca, and was supported by the National Institute of Health and Care Research (NIHR) Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, the Cancer Research UK Cambridge Centre and Addenbrooke's Charitable Trust (ACT).
'I'm cancer free': Drug trial gives breast cancer gene patients fresh hope
TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:
"New Trial Shows Promise for BRCA Gene Breast Cancer Patients with Olaparib Treatment"
Bbc News
7.1
TruthLens AI Summary
A recent clinical trial has revealed promising results for patients with aggressive, inherited breast cancer, particularly those with BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations. Led by Addenbrookes Hospital in Cambridge and published in Nature Communications, the study involved administering the targeted drug olaparib to women with early-stage breast cancer prior to surgery. The findings indicate that this approach significantly reduces the likelihood of cancer recurrence, with over 1,200 patients in the UK potentially benefiting from this new treatment strategy if further trials corroborate these results. Notably, the trial has garnered attention due to the advocacy of public figures like Angelina Jolie, who raised awareness about inherited breast cancer risks in 2013, following her own preventive surgery. One participant, Jackie Van Bochoven, shared her journey, highlighting the emotional impact of her diagnosis and expressing her gratitude for being cancer-free after participating in the trial. She emphasized the hope this brings for future generations in her family who may also carry the BRCA mutation.
The trial, known as Partner, took place across 23 sites in England, Scotland, and Wales, involving 39 women who received olaparib in conjunction with chemotherapy before surgery. Remarkably, all participants in this group survived after three years, contrasting with the six deaths in a control group of 45 women who only received chemotherapy. Professor Jean Abraham, who led the trial, described the results as "really exciting," noting the rarity of achieving 100% survival for this specific subtype of breast cancer within such a timeframe. The implications of these findings extend beyond breast cancer, potentially influencing treatment approaches for other BRCA-related cancers, including ovarian, prostate, and pancreatic cancers. Plans for a larger multinational trial involving around 600 patients are set for next year, with hopes that the results will lead to significant changes in clinical practices and cost savings for the NHS, given the reduced duration and dosage of olaparib administration. Michelle Mitchell, CEO of Cancer Research UK, remarked on the potential for this research to enhance the quality of life for patients, allowing them more time with their loved ones.
TruthLens AI Analysis
The article highlights a promising breakthrough in the treatment of inherited breast cancer, specifically for patients with BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations. This new approach, involving the use of the drug olaparib prior to surgery, has shown potential to significantly reduce the chances of cancer recurrence, offering hope to many who carry these genetic mutations.
Purpose of Publication
The study aims to inform the public about advancements in cancer treatment, particularly for those genetically predisposed to breast cancer. By sharing success stories like that of Jackie Van Bochoven, the article seeks to evoke a sense of optimism and raise awareness about the implications of genetic testing and targeted therapies. The mention of a well-known figure like Angelina Jolie further emphasizes the importance of awareness and proactive health measures.
Public Perception
This article is designed to foster a positive perception of gene-targeted therapies and to encourage discussions around genetic testing for breast cancer. By showcasing a personal success story, it aims to inspire hope among individuals with similar genetic backgrounds and to motivate them to seek medical advice regarding their risks.
Information Omission
While the article is primarily focused on the positive outcomes of the drug trial, it may not delve deeply into the potential limitations or side effects of olaparib, nor does it discuss the specifics of the larger clinical trials needed to confirm these findings. This could lead to an overly optimistic view of the treatment's efficacy without acknowledging the complexities involved in cancer research.
Manipulative Aspects
The article may present a slightly manipulative angle by emphasizing heartwarming personal stories while potentially downplaying the broader challenges and uncertainties in cancer treatment. The success narrative could lead to heightened expectations among patients and families dealing with similar issues.
Trustworthiness of the Report
The article appears to be based on credible scientific research published in a reputable journal, Nature Communications. However, the selective focus on positive outcomes necessitates a cautious approach to fully trusting the claims made, as further studies are required to validate these results comprehensively.
Societal Impact
The information presented could stimulate discussions about genetic testing and preventive measures in healthcare, potentially influencing healthcare policies and funding for further cancer research. It may also encourage individuals to take proactive steps regarding their health, leading to increased demand for genetic counseling and testing services.
Target Audience
This report is likely to resonate more with women, families with a history of breast cancer, and communities focused on health awareness. It appeals to those who may carry BRCA mutations or are concerned about hereditary cancer risks, fostering a sense of community and shared experience.
Market Implications
The announcement of a successful drug trial could have positive implications for pharmaceutical companies involved in cancer treatment, particularly those producing olaparib. Investors might show increased interest in biotech firms specializing in genetic therapies, potentially affecting stock prices in this sector.
Global Relevance
This development aligns with ongoing global discussions regarding healthcare equity, access to genetic testing, and personalized medicine. As awareness increases, it could influence policies and initiatives aimed at improving cancer treatment and patient outcomes worldwide.
AI Influence
While there is no direct indication of AI usage in the article, the structured presentation and accessibility of the information could suggest the involvement of AI tools in the drafting process. AI could have contributed to the clarity and organization of the content, making complex medical information more digestible for the general audience.
By prioritizing personal stories and positive outcomes, the article effectively engages readers but should be approached with an understanding of the complexities and challenges inherent in cancer treatment advancements.