This analysis demonstrates excellent news related to the long-term benefit of adding 1 year of trastuzumab (Herceptin) starting with the paclitaxel portion of adjuvant chemotherapy for patients with resected HER2-positive breast cancer. The study reflects the fact that excellent science in collaboration between National Cancer Institute–sponsored cancer cooperative groups and our patients can clearly help improve standards of care.

Specific data of note included a very low rate of both local recurrence and serious cardiac side effects—even though all patients received anthracyclines prior to paclitaxel/trastuzumab. That said, this regimen is a well-established standard-of-care regimen for eligible patients. ■

Disclosure: Dr. Perez is the lead author for the NSABP B-31/NCCTG N9831 joint analysis published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology.