Herceptin Not for All

Newswise — Editorials and headlines called newly published findings on the breast cancer drug Herceptin (trastuzumab) "astounding" and "revolutionary," heralding a true breakthrough in treatment that could cut recurrences of the disease by half. UAB oncologist Carla Falkson, M.D., who has conducted research in this area, concurs with the significance of the announcement. But she cautioned, "If you have Her-2/neu-positive breast cancer, this approach is the next gold standard — however, only 15 to 25 percent of breast cancers fall into this category." She added that heart failure is a possible side effect from Herceptin, "and this risk must be taken into account when planning a treatment strategy. Because the risk for heart failure increases 2 to 5 percent, patients who qualify for this treatment must evaluate their options with their physicians."