Summary
Neoadjuvant chemotherapy before surgery significantly improves survival in stage IIIA NSCLC, reducing death risk by 30% and increasing 5-year survival to 41% from 26%.
A new study shows that giving chemotherapy before surgery for advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) can significantly improve survival rates. This approach, called neoadjuvant chemotherapy, shrinks the tumor before it’s removed, making the surgery more effective.
The study followed over 300 patients with stage IIIA NSCLC, a stage where the cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes. Half of the patients received three cycles of chemotherapy before surgery, while the other half had surgery first, followed by chemotherapy.
The results were striking. Patients who received neoadjuvant chemotherapy lived significantly longer. After five years, 41% of patients who had chemotherapy before surgery were still alive, compared to only 26% of those who had surgery first. This translates to a 30% reduction in the risk of death.
Researchers believe that shrinking the tumor beforehand allows surgeons to remove it more completely, reducing the chances of cancer returning. Additionally, early chemotherapy may kill off any cancer cells that have already spread beyond the main tumor, but are too small to be detected.
This study represents a major advancement in lung cancer treatment. While surgery remains the cornerstone of treatment for stage IIIA NSCLC, adding chemotherapy beforehand offers a substantial survival benefit. This approach is now considered the standard of care for this stage of lung cancer. It’s important to note that not all patients are candidates for surgery, and individual treatment plans should be discussed with a doctor. This study provides hope for improved outcomes for those facing this challenging disease.
