Dr. Patel Ongoing Research Efforts in Pancreatic Cancer

Reema A. Patel, MD, associate program director, Hematology & Medical Oncology Fellowship, assistant professor of medicine, Division of Medical Oncology, University of Kentucky, discusses ongoing research efforts in pancreatic cancer.

Historically, pancreatic cancer has been associated with dismal outcomes due to limited treatment options. However, novel treatment approaches are being explored, including some that have been successful in treating other tumor types, explains Patel. As such, the field is hopeful that these novel therapies will be emerge in the treatment paradigm, such as having to determine an optimal sequencing strategy, Patel adds.

A similar paradigm shift was observed in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), says Patel. Sorafenib (Nexavar) was one of the only treatment options in HCC a decade ago. However, the space is now crowded and complex among novel treatment options, explains Patel. As such, the field is hopeful that a similar shift may be experienced in pancreatic cancer, Patel concludes.