Breast cancer drug boosts treatment

The drug can extend remission period in cancer patients

A south Wales hospital is trailing a new drug to improve breast cancer survival as part of a cancer-fighting network.

Felindre Hospital in Cardiff is testing Taxotere for chemotherapy after surgery in a bid to held stop the cancer returning.

It's good for you and everybody else after you because they will benefit from the experience

Marjolaine Masse, cancer patient

Around one in nine woman will develop breast cancer during their lifetime, according to recent figures.

But Taxotere can almost double the length of remission for women with recurrent breast cancer.

The trial at Felindre is just one of over 100 taking place around Wales.

The results of the trial will be known within two years and could lead to widespread use of the drugs.

Survival network

The hospitals have formed a cancer research network to share information, promote research and help cancer patients to locate the trial treatments.

Felindre consultant oncologist Dr Peter Barrett Lee said: "We already know that, where a patient has a recurrence of breast cancer, these drugs are extremely effective.

"What we're looking to see is whether they will be even more effective if they are given out after surgery."

Marjolaine Masse, a patient at the hospital, discovered a lump on her breast early in 2001 and doctors found her cancer was more widespread than initial tests revealed.

Trial welcomed

She welcomed the trial which she is taking part in.

"You're getting the most up-to-date treatment, so, if it works, it's good for you and everybody else after you because they will benefit from the experience."

Marjolaine Masse welcomed the trial

Trials elsewhere around the UK have indicated the drug can slow down the spread of cancer and extend the lives of patients.

Previously, health authorities were reluctant to issue Taxotere due to costs, resulting in a "postcode lottery" situation in the National Health Service.

Manufacturers Aventis have claimed four out of five women in need of the product have missed out.

But last year the National Institute for Clinical Excellence told the authorities they must distribute the drug.