Sadhana Chalasani: New Drug May Reduce Bone-Related Complications for Breast Cancer Patients

NEW YORK, NY, August 21, 2012 (Press-News.org) Advanced breast cancer, which has spread to the bones, can cause complications that result in the break down of bone tissue. As such, individuals who are fighting this disease are often put on medications to prevent the deterioration of their bones. U.S. News reports that a new drug, called denosumab, or Xgeva, is able to reduce these complications more significantly that Zometa, which is a commonly prescribed drug that was designed to treat osteoporosis. Sadhana Chalasani, who advocates for breast cancer awareness, hopes that the development of Xgeva will improve the quality of life for the individuals who are fighting advanced breast cancer.

Zometa is a bisphosphonate, which is meant to hinder bone complications. As such, it is used to prevent pain, fractures, and compression of the spinal cord. But this medication has also been correlated with kidney toxicity and other adverse reactions. Denosumab, on the other hand, is a monoclonal antibody. Better tolerated by the body, it produces fewer negative side effects while addressing similar complications.

Dr. Alison Stopeck, who is an associate professor of medicine at the University of Arizona, Tucson, asserts that denosumab is "more effective at preventing bone destruction caused by breast cancer that has spread to the bone." One of the members of the study, which published the results of this drug in Clinical Cancer Research, Dr. Stopeck explains that cancer cells trigger osteoclasts, which break down the tissue within the bone. When this becomes severe, doctors may try radiation therapy to kill the tumor without triggering more osteoclasts.

To test denosumab, Dr. Stopeck and other researchers divided over 2,000 participants into two groups--one was given denosumab and the other was given zoledronic acid (Zometa). The drugs were administered for 20 months and, at the end of the trial, researchers found denosumab to be "a bit better on all counts."

Sadhana Chalasani believes that this is a wonderful finding, as it will improve the quality of life for patients who are struggling with advanced breast cancer. "Quality of life is important for cancer patients," asserts Chalasani. "We all know that it is important to fight to live, but when facing a deadly illness and experiencing so much pain, the will to go on may dwindle. By creating a more comfortable everyday existence, patients will find it easier to continue to fight."

ABOUT:

Sadhana Chalasani, attended Saint Edward's School in Port Saint Lucie, Florida. A dedicated student, Sadhana Chalasani has always devoted her time to learning and community service. As such, she has become a leader in her community. Her efforts, including the foundation of the Grassroots AIDS Advocacy Program and the Pink Ribbon Club, have raised awareness about these devastating diseases and improved students' understanding of these conditions. In addition, Sadhana Chalasani was a member of Mu Alpha Theta, National Honor Society, and Model United Nations.

Website: http://sadhanachalasani.com