Local Cancer Research Facility Administers Clinical Trial To Improve Treatment of Pancreatic Cancer

Online, September 13, 2013 (Newswire.com) - Highlands Oncology Group (HOG) has been involved in a breakthrough trial studying the effects of a combination of two medications on the treatment of refractory metastatic pancreatic cancer.

HOG has been conducting the trial in conjunction with Incyte Corporation, a biopharmaceutical company, to determine the effectiveness of the specific treatment. The treatment involves combining ruxolitinib with capecitabine. HOG has been investigating whether the combination could improve the overall survival of patients with refractory metastatic pancreatic cancer.

This looks to be a well needed breakthrough in treatment for our patients with pancreatic cancer," Beck said. Highlands is committed to studying this difficult disease and is currently working on several other new approaches that are hoped to bring similar success. Highlands is grateful to the patients that participated in this program."

Full results of the trial are expected to be presented at a future scientific meeting, however initial results appear to be favorable and suggest a "demonstrable survival benefit in a well-defined group of patients with refractory metastatic pancreatic cancer," Paul A. Friedman, M.D., Incyte's President and Chief Executive Officer, said.

Cancer of the pancreas is a particularly deadly form of cancer. Research and advancement in treatments, of pancreatic cancer, is paramount to the future of prospective diagnoses.

About 45,220 people will be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in the U.S. in 2013, according to The National Cancer Institute (NCI), and about 38,460 of those diagnosed will die from the disease. Pancreatic cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer-related death in the United States, according to the NCI.

Pancreatic cancer is a dangerous disease that affects thousands of people each year and, as the leading cancer treatment facility in the area, HOG is dedicated to the advancement of cancer treatment to provide patients with the best possible care.

Highlands Oncology Group is a state-of-the-art facility with a world-class team of specialists that is committed to providing premier cancer treatment and to enhancing the quality of life of patients and their loved one in a friendly, comfortable environment right here in Northwest Arkansas, making it possible for "They offer the latest technology of diagnostic imaging and radiation therapies, on-site labs, pharmacy and infusion center." They also offer access to clinical trials, multidisciplinary clinics and support groups. Highlands Oncology Group is helping patients win the battle against cancer every day.
For more information visit www.HighlandsOncologyGroup.com.