Weekly News for 4/2/09

This morning I did a search via Twitter of posts with the words "Lung Cancer". Below are some highlights of my findings:

• WVU Cancer Center part of national study on new lung cancer drug

"Lung cancer, the deadliest cancer for both men and women, claims more lives than colon, breast and prostate cancers combined. Often the disease does not cause any early symptoms, making diagnosis difficult at a treatable stage. Consequently, more patients are treated for advanced lung cancer than for early stage disease.

The Mary Babb Randolph Cancer Center at West Virginia University is among 12 facilities nationwide offering a Phase II clinical trial to assess a new combination therapy for advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in patients who have never received chemotherapy."

• On the Path Productions -- Erasing the Stigma of Lung Cancer

"On The Path Productions LLC, a San Francisco health media company, is spreading the word about lung cancer research and its need for funding. In conjunction with the Bonnie J. Addario Lung Cancer Foundation, On the Path (OPP) has produced and aired the national Life Love & Health: Special Edition program, examining the stigma associated with this so-called "smokers' disease" and how it may be hindering a search for the cure."

• OSI, Genentech Say Cancer Drug’s Benefits Ends Trial
  

"...clinical trial of the drug Tarceva in lung cancer patients was halted early because the treatment significantly extended the time patients lived without their disease worsening. The report sent OSI shares 16 percent higher, the biggest single-day gain in more than four years."

• Regular physical activity linked to better quality of life in early-stage lung cancer survivors
  

"Survey led by Fox Chase Cancer Center researcher shows how moderate exercise a few times a week might improve the mental and physical health of lung cancer survivors..."

• New study aims to boost lung cancer early detection

"An Australian-first research project is hoping the use of a more delicate screening process to help boost early detection of lung cancer."

• Cuba Approves First Therapeutic Vaccine for Lung Cancer

"Cuba has approved what is believed to be the world's first registered lung cancer vaccine and is offering it to Cuban and foreign patients in its hospitals."

• Peregrine Pharmaceuticals' Bavituximab Achieves Primary Endpoint in First Stage of Phase II Lung Cancer Study

"Preliminary Data Show Seven of 17 Evaluable Patients Achieved an Objective Tumor Response by End of Four Treatment Cycles."

• Avastin, Tarceva combo delays lung cancer advance
  

"A late-stage trial found that combining Genentech Inc's (DNA.N) Avastin with cancer pill Tarceva, which is co-marketed with OSI Pharmaceuticals (OSIP.O), extended the time patients with advanced lung cancer lived without the disease getting worse."