Bristol-Myers Squibb reports positive lung cancer survival benefits for Opdivo

Bristol-Myers Squibb has announced new clinical trial data showing the two-year survival benefits for lung cancer patients associated with its drug Opdivo.

Overall survival data from two pivotal phase III studies has been announced, demonstrating the performance of Opdivo versus docetaxel in previously-treated metastatic non-small cell lung cancer.

Results from both the Checkmate -057 and -017 studies showed that Opdivo continued to demonstrate improved overall survival, the primary endpoint for both studies, at the landmark two-year time point, while its safety profile was consistent with previous trials.

Detailed research findings from these trials will be presented at the American Society of Clinical Oncology's annual meeting in Chicago from June 3rd to 7th.

Dr Nick Botwood, development lead for lung and head and neck therapies at Bristol-Myers Squibb, said: "Our fundamental goal for immuno-oncology research is to redefine the expectation of long-term quality survival for all patients with lung cancer."

Opdivo was cited as one of the key drivers of commercial growth for the company during the first quarter of 2016.