Novartis says it wants to develop more cancer treatments

Novartis looks forward to exploring new ways to help treat cancer patients, it has asserted.

During the 2009 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) conference, the healthcare company ? which is headquartered in Basel, Switzerland ? will present findings on more than 15 compounds in its portfolio.

Providing new research on multiple tumour types and rare cancers, the investigations to be discussed include the Promid study ? an examination of Sandostatin LAR’s effectiveness in patients with metastatic neuroendocrine tumours of the midgut.

David Epstein is the president and chief executive officer of Novartis’ oncology and molecular diagnostics departments.

He commented: “Our strong presence at ASCO showcases our continued progress in developing innovative therapies for patients with cancer through our comprehensive discovery and development program.”

Earlier this month, Novartis released data showing how its investigational bronchodilator QAB149 notably improved lung function in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease compared to other treatments.

As a result, the product could be the first once-daily bronchodilator to combine clinically relevant 24-hour bronchodilation if it is approved.