Avastin shows positive outcomes in patients with advanced kidney cancer

Kidney Cancer :: Avastin shows positive outcomes in patients with advanced kidney cancer

An interim analysis of a phase III study in advanced renal cell cancer has shown that Avastin significantly prolongs the time patients live without their disease progressing.

In addition, this early analysis indicated a trend towards an improvement in overall survival. Renal cell cancer is the most common form of kidney cancer accounting for nine out of ten cases and treatment options are limited.

Due to the benefits observed, the independent Drug Safety Monitoring Board (DSMB) has recommended that the study be unblinded and all patients will be offered treatment with Avastin. Safety was in line with what has been observed for Avastin in previous studies.

"The results have shown that Avastin works effectively as a first-line treatment for renal cell cancer. This is the fourth cancer type in which Avastin?s unique mode of action translates into a progression-free survival benefit for patients," said Eduard Holdener, Head of Roche Pharmaceuticals Development. "Current treatment options in advanced kidney cancer are limited and we are planning to work with health authorities in Europe to make Avastin available to patients with renal cell carcinoma as soon as possible."

In the AVOREN study patients received treatment with either Avastin and interferon alpha-2a or interferon alone, a standard of care in advanced kidney cancer. This is the first time that Avastin has demonstrated benefits for patients also in combination with an immunotherapeutic.

Further analyses of the AVOREN study are underway and results will be presented at an upcoming oncology conference.