Landmark moment in breast cancer treatment
A new pill that is taken twice a day for the most common type of advanced breast cancer has been given the green light by the NHS in what scientists are calling a "landmark moment." Up to 3,000 women each year could benefit from capivasertib, an oral medication for hormone receptor (HR)-positive HER2-negative breast cancer, especially if the cancer has specific genetic mutations and has spread.
How the pill works
The medication, also known as Truqap and manufactured by AstraZeneca, functions by blocking an abnormal protein molecule called AKT that causes cancer cells to multiply. By doing so, it helps to slow down or even stop the spread of cancer cells.
Positive results from clinical trials
Results from a clinical trial revealed that capivasertib, when combined with hormone therapy fulvestrant, extended the time before cancer progression by approximately 4.2 months compared to a placebo plus fulvestrant – from 3.1 months to 7.3 months.
Availability for specific patients
The new drug is suitable for patients with tumours that have mutations or alterations in the PIK3CA, AKT1, or PTEN genes, which are present in about half of patients with HR-positive breast cancer.
Experts' opinions
Professor Nicholas Turner, who led a major trial into the drug, emphasized the importance of advanced breast cancer patients getting tested to identify who could benefit from the capivasertib combination. Professor Kristian Helin, chief executive of the ICR, hailed the announcement as a triumph that will enhance treatment for patients with the most common type of advanced breast cancer.
Call for prompt genetic testing
Claire Rowney, chief executive of Breast Cancer Now, welcomed the approval of the new treatment but urged for swift genetic testing to ensure eligible patients receive capivasertib without further delays. She emphasized the need for urgent action to guarantee quick approval of breast cancer drugs.
Spotting signs of breast cancer
Early detection of breast cancer symptoms significantly improves treatment outcomes and survival rates. Symptoms in women may include lumps or swelling in the breast, chest, or armpit, changes in skin texture, nipple discharge, changes in nipple shape, and persistent breast or armpit pain. Men should watch for similar symptoms like lumps, nipple discharge, chest changes, and nipple abnormalities.
Regular self-checks for symptoms are advised to catch any signs of breast cancer early.
