Here we see a review of literature assessing the impact of patient assistance programs on outcomes broadly in cancer care. While indirect links may be drawn between the prevalence of financial toxicities and outcomes, adherence, etc., additional research studies are needed to more clearly demonstrate the tangible impact of these programs to support future investments from stakeholders.
The burden of thrombosis and related-complications for severe Covid-19 infection is impressive. Aggressive thromboprophylaxis and early detection of thrombotic and bleeding complications are of paramount importance.
The debate insofar as aspirin in primary prevention of death has raged for decades. This very large study demonstrates potential benefit for younger population (7% benefit), but in general there is no significant impact in all-cause mortality and risk of major bleeding was noticeable. In my opinion, it is reasonable to consider low dose aspirin for individuals 50-60 years of age, especially with risk factors for CV disease.
Very interesting study which gives more support for preoperatory therapy in the setting of borderline resectable pancreatic cancer. The use of neodjuvant chemotherapy or chemoradiotherapy will likely increase overtime, as systemic options improve, even in pancreatic cancer. Optimal regimen is unknown as studies with other options such as Folfirinox, gemcitabine/albumin-bound paclitaxel are needed, post chemoradiotherapy.
The difference in CR vs RD rates with addition of carboplatin or bevacizumab was quite impressive. It is likely that the study was simply not powered to measure other endpoints. While LTOs were not improved, pCR was associated with superior LTOs. Biological markers of response are very interesting and may help us tailor specific therapies in the future.
Remarkable study, practice-changing, showing a significant improvement in PFS and OS at 5-years. After initial learning phase insofar as management of pulmonary toxicity from IO Rx, adoption of such therapy hopefully continues to increase from historical baseline.
The importance of germline mutation assessment with the support of genetic counselors cannot be overestimated in daily practice. The impact can be very significant. Interesting to see the significantly elevated relative risk for GI cancers (pancreas, gastric) with BRCA 1 and 2 pathogenic variants.
Another study to support use of 3 months of CAPOX in lower-risk stage III colon cancer patients. Less toxicity and cost are likely observed in practice.
Thought-provoking oped highlighting the underbelly of buzzwords in healthcare today. The shift from volume to value that we’ve seen unfold over the past 3-5 years has moved front and center in many conversations, yet remains elusive insofar as its definition and implementation. This article rightly calls out that value is ultimately in the eye of the beholder, and yet there’s no disputing that doing what’s right for the patient trumps all.
Analysis of 61 NCI-designated cancers demonstrate parenteral cancer drug price markups across all centers ranging between 188.4% to 633.6%. Only 27 centers publicly disclose payer-specific prices for cancer therapies as required by federal regulation. Authors recommend public policies to discourage excessive hospital price markups on patenteral chemotherapeutics to reduce financial burden on cancer treatment for patients.
FCS Hematology Oncology Review creates a platform for our physician network to observe the most recent articles and studies available in the oncology and hematology world. By sharing these articles we are building our wealth of knowledge of new observations and treatments as they come available.
