Combination Chemotherapy for Lung Cancer in Elderly Patients
Author Information
Author(s): Ichinose Y, Seto T, Semba H, Itoh K, Inoue Y, Tanaka F, Araki J, Tamanoi M, Yamamoto H, Iwamoto N
Primary Institution: National Kyushu Cancer Center
Hypothesis
The study aims to evaluate the efficacy and toxicity of combination chemotherapy consisting of gemcitabine and UFT in patients with advanced non-small-cell lung cancer.
Conclusion
The combination chemotherapy demonstrated promising effectiveness and acceptable toxicity in patients with advanced NSCLC, even in those older than 75 years.
Supporting Evidence
- 41% of patients achieved a partial response.
- The median survival time was 13.2 months.
- The 1-year survival rate was 59%.
- 57% of patients experienced grade 3–4 neutropenia.
Takeaway
Doctors tested a new cancer treatment for older patients with lung cancer, and it worked well without causing too many side effects.
Methodology
Patients received oral UFT and intravenous gemcitabine in a specific schedule, and their responses and side effects were monitored.
Limitations
The study included a high proportion of elderly patients, which may limit the generalizability of the results.
Participant Demographics
Median age was 74 years, with 21 patients aged 75 years or older.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.4948
Confidence Interval
95% confidence interval, 26–55%
Statistical Significance
p=0.4948
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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