Analysis of prognostic factors in 766 patients with small cell lung cancer (SCLC): The role of sex as a predictor for survival
1991

The Role of Sex in Survival for Small Cell Lung Cancer

Sample size: 766 publication Evidence: high

Author Information

Author(s): M. Wolf, R. Holle, K. Hans, P. Drings, K. Havemann

Primary Institution: Philipps-University of Marburg

Hypothesis

Does gender serve as an independent prognostic factor for survival in small cell lung cancer?

Conclusion

Female patients with small cell lung cancer have better survival rates than male patients, particularly those under 60 years old.

Supporting Evidence

  • Female patients had a higher complete remission rate of 35% compared to 25% for males.
  • Median survival for females was 12.1 months, while for males it was 9.8 months.
  • Women under 60 years had a median survival of 13.3 months compared to 10.1 months for men.

Takeaway

Women with small cell lung cancer tend to live longer than men, especially if they are younger than 60.

Methodology

Data from three multicenter trials were analyzed to evaluate the impact of sex on survival in small cell lung cancer patients.

Potential Biases

The study may be influenced by the small number of female patients and the varying treatment responses based on age.

Limitations

The study's findings may not apply to older women, as no survival advantage was observed in that group.

Participant Demographics

652 male and 114 female patients, with a minimum follow-up of 36 months.

Statistical Information

P-Value

0.0001

Statistical Significance

p<0.001

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