Novartis reports positive data from new global Jakavi trial

Novartis' myelofibrosis drug Jakavi has demonstrated its safety and efficacy in a new global clinical trial involving more than 1,000 patients.

According to data from the phase IIIb JUMP study, 69 percent of patients achieved a more than 50 percent reduction in spleen size, as well as a clinically meaningful improvement in myelofibrosis symptom score.

This reinforces the safety profile of Jakavi, as seen in previous phase III studies. It is the only JAK inhibitor approved in more than 70 countries for patients affected by this uncommon blood cancer, which is marked by debilitating symptoms.

More than 50 abstracts were presented on the drug at the American Society of Hematology's annual meeting, which took place in San Francisco earlier this week.

Dr Alessandro Riva, global head of Novartis' oncology development and medical affairs division, said: "It's exciting to see the depth of research in a rare blood cancer like myelofibrosis. Results from these studies help us to better understand and address the needs of patients and physicians."

The company is also attending the CTRC-AACR San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium this week to share further oncology research insights.