DiCE at ESMO 2024
Earlier this month, part of the DiCE Medical and Scientific Team attended the ESMO (European Society for Medical Oncology) Congress 2024 in Barcelona, one of the most important global events in oncology. As a team, we worked hard to ensure that the voices of digestive cancer patients were heard. Engaging with healthcare professionals, researchers, and industry partners, our discussions were focused on increasing awareness, advancing early detection, improving access to innovative treatments, and enhancing the quality of life for patients with digestive cancers.
Highlights
Dr. Sara Lonardi presented promising results from new treatments for metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC), including cetuximab, amivantamab, and ramucirumab. These treatments have been shown to help control the disease and slow its progression. While survival rates for mCRC are still low, these new options offer hope for patients who have not responded to standard treatments.
A new study has shown that adding the drugs lenvatinib and pembrolizumab to a common liver cancer treatment called TACE can help people with intermediate-stage hepatocellular carcinoma liver cancer (HCC) live longer without the disease worsening. This combination offers promise, but doctors still need to assess who benefits, mostly due to side effects.
The POD1UM-303 trial showed that adding retifanlimab, an immunotherapy drug, to standard chemotherapy improved survival for patients with metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the anal canal. This combination may become a new standard treatment.
DiCE’s participation at ESMO 2024 underscores our commitment to improving the lives of digestive cancer patients across Europe. Through our advocacy, we continue to shape a future where all patients receive the best possible care and support.
Laura Urena