September 18, 2024

Breast Cancer Canada Shares Key Updates from the 2024 ESMO Congress in Barcelona

The 2024 ESMO Congress has highlighted significant advances in breast cancer research, aligning with Breast Cancer Canada’s mission to improve patient outcomes. Here are key findings from the congress that could shape the future of breast cancer treatment.

NATALEE Trial: A Step Forward in Early HR+ Breast Cancer Treatment One of the major highlights is the update from the NATALEE trial. This clinical trial shows that adding Kisqali® (Ribociclib) to endocrine (or hormone) therapy can significantly reduce the risk of breast cancer recurrence by 28% in patients with stage 2 and 3 HR+/HER2- early breast cancer. The combination of Kisqali® and hormone therapy is proving to offer a deeper and more sustained benefit, especially in younger patients. This treatment has now received new FDA approval, and Health Canada approval is anticipated soon.

Abstract ESMO Congress 2024 LBA13, Dr. Fasching: Adjuvant Ribociclib (RIB) plus nonsteroidal aromatase inhibitor (NSAI) in patients with HR+/HER2- early breast cancer: 4-year outcomes from the NATALEE trial
Link to Abstract
Abstract ESMO Congress 2024 235MO, Dr. Loi: Efficacy and safety of Ribociclib (RIB) + nonsteroidal aromatase inhibitor (NSAI) in younger patients with HR+/HER2- early breast cancer in NATALEE
Link to Abstract

Importance of Staying on Therapy for Younger Patients Another key study presented at the congress focuses on younger patients under 35 with stage 2 or 3 HR+ breast cancer. The research highlights that these patients face a higher risk of recurrence if they stop hormone treatments before the recommended 5 years. This underscores the importance of adhering to the full course of therapy to reduce recurrence risk. In addition, it highlights the need for resources to support younger patients in balancing treatment goals, and the importance of dose modifications to personalize the balance of side effects and quality of life for long term completion of treatment.

Abstract ESMO Congress 2024 234MO, Dr. Dumas: Explaining the relationships between age, endocrine therapy persistence, and risk of recurrence in hormone-positive early breast cancer: A nationwide cohort study
Link to Abstract

Improving Patient Outcomes These studies highlight the continuous efforts within the global breast cancer research community to refine treatment strategies and improve outcomes for early-stage HR+ / HER2- patients. They emphasize the importance of personalized treatment approaches and ongoing research to optimize therapy.

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