Heather Han, MD

Heather Han, MD, Research Director, Department of Breast Oncology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, commented on the latest update from the NATALEE trial: “Despite the established standard adjuvant therapy, many patients with hormone receptor–positive, early-stage breast cancer (including stages II–III) will recur. CDK4/6 inhibitors including abemaciclib and now ribociclib showed an improvement of outcomes in these patients. The NATALEE trial included patients with hormone receptor–positive, early-stage breast cancer who are at high and also intermediate risk of recurrence (expanded inclusion compared with the monarchE trial). Overall toxicities with a reduced dose of ribociclib (400 mg) were manageable. The benefit of adding ribociclib was observed across all subgroups, including those with stage II disease.”

Dr. Han continued: “This study provided the additional option for patients with hormone receptor–positive, early-stage breast cancer to decrease their risk of recurrence. Further predictive biomarkers and long-term follow-up data are awaited.” 

DISCLOSURE: Dr. Han reported no conflicts of interest.