Progress in gynecologic cancer research: the Gynecologic Oncology Group experience

Since 1970, the Gynecologic Oncology Group (GOG) has been a leader in clinical research in female pelvic cancers. Currently comprising 59 institutions and their affiliates in the United States, Canada, and elsewhere, the GOG has defined, principally through phase III randomized clinical trials, the standard of care for several stages and types of gynecologic cancer. This review will briefly summarize, in the context of research done concurrently by other groups and institutions, important GOG trials that have moved the field forward, especially in ovarian, endometrial, and cervical cancers. The role of cisplatin, carboplatin, and paclitaxel, as well as other drugs and combinations, in gynecologic cancer has been extensively studied by the GOG, as has chemoradiation in cervical cancer. Surgical staging of cervical and endometrial cancers has provided new insights and guidance for management. The benefits and limitations of radiation therapy in these diseases have been examined carefully. Thus, the stage has been set for further progress in this field.