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Metastatic lung cancer in the age of targeted therapy: improving long-term survival
Jaydira Del Rivero1, Lindsey Enewold2, Anish Thomas3
1Medical Oncology Branch, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA.
Abstract:
Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations are the most frequent targetable genetic abnormality observed in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). More than a decade after EGFR mutations were shown to predict sensitivity to EGFR-tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFR-TKI), retrospective cohort studies are now identifying and characterizing 5-year survivors. While these studies indicate subsets of patients achieving long-term survival, there is paucity of data pertaining to the long-term survival benefits of these targeted therapies at a population level. Improving access to molecular testing and treatment are key to maximizing the survival benefits at a population level.
Insights
Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations predict targeted therapy success in non-small cell lung cancer. Improving access to testing and treatment is crucial for maximizing long-term survival benefits in patients.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Genetics
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations are common in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).
- EGFR mutations predict sensitivity to EGFR-tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFR-TKI).
- Retrospective studies identify long-term survivors among NSCLC patients treated with EGFR-TKIs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the long-term survival benefits of EGFR-targeted therapies at a population level.
- To highlight the need for improved access to molecular testing and treatment for NSCLC patients.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective cohort studies were analyzed.
- Data on 5-year survivors treated with EGFR-TKIs were characterized.
Main Results:
- Subsets of non-small cell lung cancer patients achieve long-term survival with EGFR-targeted therapies.
- Paucity of data exists regarding population-level long-term survival benefits.
Conclusions:
- EGFR mutations are key biomarkers for targeted therapy in NSCLC.
- Maximizing survival benefits necessitates improved access to molecular testing and EGFR-TKI treatment.
- Further population-level studies are needed to fully understand long-term survival outcomes.
