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For patients with moderately advanced colon cancer; the most common stage encountered, it is accepted practice to offer chemotherapy to improve survival and decrease recurrence. Traditionally, we have offered a drug named 5-fluorouracil (also known under several trade names) to patients for extended use. This drug has proven considerably successful both by itself and in combination with several other drugs; the most notable of which is oxaliplatin (Eloxatin).

Today, Roche Laboratories announced that the oral form of 5-fluoruracil, Xeloda, is just as effective in long-term studies as the more common intravenous form when given in combination with oxaliplatin. So far this information is preliminary, but the oncology community will provide a more thorough analysis as more information becomes available in the coming weeks.

This news is especially positive for patients with colon cancer who can now avoid the discomforts of receiving their drug via indwelling catheters, as is the more common mode of delivery.

The Roche Laboratories discovery was made possible by patient participation in clinical trials. Presbyterian is actively involved in many cancer clinical trials and even participated in the Roche study. We thank all of our patients who are participating in this and all of our trials, for they truly do help shape the future of medicine.