New data shows cancer drug can improve disease-free survival rates

Dr Dearbhaile Collins, Cork-based oncologist, has welcomed the findings, which were presented at a top American cancer conference. Picture: Jim Coughlan.

A new study on a drug for lung cancer shows it can improve disease-free survival by more than one third for some patients, a top American cancer conference has heard.

Data from phase three trials presented by Roche Products (Ireland) show the immunotherapy drug, Atezolizumab, helps some people with early lung cancer live significantly longer without their disease returning.