Novartis states proven benefits of Femara

Novartis has commented on the proven benefits of Femara (letrozole), its treatment for women who have suffered breast cancer.

The company reports that women starting treatment with the once-daily oral aromatase inhibitor any time from one to seven years after finishing treatment with tamoxifen reduce their risk of developing breast cancer again by 63 per cent.

Paul Goss, lead investigator of the MA-17 trial, said: “The important message for women is that it may never be too late for many breast cancer survivors to do more to protect themselves against the ongoing risk of disease recurrence.”

He added that the data from the recent trial analysis reinforces the need for women to continue discussions with their doctors after they are diagnosed with breast cancer.

Last month, Novartis reported that its shareholders approved all the proposals of its board of directors at its annual general meeting.