Early Immunotherapy Administration Boosts Survival in Cancer Patients

A recent study highlights the potential for improved survival rates in cancer patients through early administration of immunotherapy. Research published in the journal Cancer indicates that timing may play a crucial role in the effectiveness of anticancer treatments. Specifically, patients who receive immunotherapy earlier in the day could experience significantly longer survival periods.

The study involved 397 patients diagnosed with extensive-stage small cell lung cancer, who were treated with the immunotherapy drugs atezolizumab or durvalumab in combination with chemotherapy. This research took place at the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Xiangya School of Medicine at Central South University in China from May 2019 to October 2023.

Researchers found that those who received treatment before 15:00 experienced substantial benefits. Specifically, patients treated earlier had significantly longer progression-free survival—meaning they lived without cancer progression for extended periods. Furthermore, the study revealed a 52% lower risk of cancer progression and a 63% lower risk of death for patients receiving their treatments earlier in the day compared to those treated later.

The findings suggest that the body’s internal clock, known as the circadian rhythm, may influence the effectiveness of immunotherapy. This biological timing affects various physiological processes, including immune responses. As a result, treatments may yield more favorable outcomes when administered at specific times.

According to the study’s senior author, Yongchang Zhang, MD, the adjustment of infusion timing represents a straightforward and easily implementable change within healthcare settings. Dr. Zhang stated, “Adjusting infusion timing is a straightforward and easily implementable intervention that can be adopted across diverse health care settings without additional cost.” He emphasized the immediate clinical applicability of these findings, highlighting their potential to transform treatment protocols for small cell lung cancer.

This research opens the door for further exploration into how timing can enhance treatment efficacy across various types of cancer. As the healthcare community continues to seek ways to improve patient outcomes, the implications of this study could lead to significant changes in how immunotherapy is administered.

For more detailed information, refer to the published study titled “Overall survival according to time-of-day of immunochemotherapy for extensive-stage small cell lung cancer” in Cancer, DOI: 10.1002/cncr.70126.