Relationship between effects on time-to-disease progression and overall survival in studies of metastatic breast cancer
2008

Effects of Treatment on Survival in Metastatic Breast Cancer

Sample size: 17081 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Sherrill B, Amonkar M, Wu Y, Hirst C, Stein S, Walker M, Cuzick J

Primary Institution: RTI Health Solutions

Hypothesis

What is the relationship between time-to-disease progression and overall survival in metastatic breast cancer studies?

Conclusion

The study found a positive association between treatment effects on disease progression and overall survival in metastatic breast cancer, although the effect size on survival was smaller.

Supporting Evidence

  • The study included 67 trials with a total of 17,081 patients.
  • A positive correlation was found between time-to-progression and overall survival.
  • The slope of the regression model was 0.32, indicating a consistent relationship.

Takeaway

If a treatment helps patients live longer without their cancer getting worse, it usually helps them live longer overall, but the extra time might not be as much.

Methodology

A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials was conducted to assess the relationship between time-to-progression and overall survival in metastatic breast cancer.

Potential Biases

Potential biases due to varying inclusion criteria and patient characteristics across studies.

Limitations

Inconsistent definitions for progression endpoints and lack of clear treatment options after progression were noted.

Participant Demographics

Median age was 55 years, with hormone receptor status reported for 46 studies.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.001

Confidence Interval

95% CI: 0.20, 0.43

Statistical Significance

p<0.001

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1038/sj.bjc.6604759

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