The American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) will feature key studies at its 2024 Annual Meeting, highlighting advances in cancer treatment. The research spans diverse areas, including lung, breast, prostate cancers, and meningioma, with a focus on improving treatment outcomes and quality of life.
Lung Cancer: Atezolizumab in Limited-Stage Small Cell Lung Cancer
Kristin A. Higgins, MD, from City of Hope Cancer Center Atlanta, will present the results of the NRG Oncology/Alliance LU005 trial. This study investigates the impact of adding atezolizumab, an immunotherapy drug, to concurrent chemoradiation in patients with limited-stage small cell lung cancer (LS-SCLC). LS-SCLC is an aggressive cancer, and new treatment strategies are needed to improve survival rates. The trial's findings could potentially change the standard of care for this patient population.
Breast Cancer: Hypofractionated Post-Mastectomy Radiation Therapy
Matthew Poppe, MD, FASTRO, University of Utah Huntsman Cancer Institute, will present the "RT CHARM" trial (Alliance A221505). This randomized trial examines hypofractionated post-mastectomy radiation therapy (PMRT) in women who have undergone breast reconstruction. Hypofractionation involves delivering higher doses of radiation over fewer treatment sessions. The study aims to determine if this approach is as effective as traditional radiation therapy while reducing the overall treatment time and burden for patients.
Prostate Cancer: Proton Therapy vs. IMRT
Jason Efstathiou, MD, PhD, FASTRO, Massachusetts General Hospital, will present the "Prostate Advanced Radiation Technologies Investigating Quality of Life (PARTIQoL)" trial. This phase III randomized clinical trial compares proton therapy to intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) for localized prostate cancer. The primary focus is on assessing the impact of these treatments on patients' quality of life. The results will help guide treatment decisions, balancing cancer control with minimizing side effects.
Meningioma: 177Lu-Dotatate in Refractory Meningioma
Kenneth Merrell, MD, Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine, will present a prospective, phase II study of 177Lu-Dotatate in patients with surgery- and radiation-refractory meningioma. The study focuses on WHO grade II/III cohort. This research offers hope for patients with limited treatment options.
Neurocognitive Recovery After Brain Radiotherapy
Hua-Ren Ryan Cherng, MD, University of Maryland Medical Center, will present a pooled analysis of three phase III trials evaluating neurocognitive recovery following stereotactic radiosurgery and whole brain radiation therapy. The research provides insights into the impact of different radiation techniques on cognitive function.
Factors Influencing Clinical Trial Participation
Charlyn Gomez, University of Maryland School of Medicine, will present research on factors influencing Black cancer patients' decisions to join clinical trials. Understanding these factors is crucial for improving diversity and inclusion in clinical research.
Oropharyngeal Cancer: NRG-HN005 Trial
Sue Yom, MD, PhD, FASTRO, University of California, San Francisco, will present interim futility results of NRG-HN005, a randomized, phase II/III non-inferiority trial for non-smoking p16+ oropharyngeal cancer patients.
