The trial, called the TITAN study, examined the use of a new type of hormone-reducing medication in treating prostate cancer. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among Canadian men and is the third most common cause of cancer death.
“There is a critical need to improve outcomes for patients with prostate cancer,” says Dr. Chi, Medical Director of BC Cancer - Vancouver. “The data suggests this treatment can significantly prolong survival and delay the spread of the disease.”
In general, the overall survival rate is approximately 5 years once the cancer has spread beyond the prostate. 1,052 men with advanced prostate cancer were randomized in this study and included men who had received prior chemotherapy. The focus of the trial was on lowering the rate of progression of the prostate cancer and overall survival.
“At the first analysis, the trial was positive. Patients experienced a 52% reduction in the risk of progression, and there was a 33% improvement in overall survival,” said Dr. Chi.
