Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: Global Clinical Trial Landscape

Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) is the most common lung cancer type, representing 80-85% of all cases worldwide. It originates from larger airway lining cells or mucus-producing cells within the lungs. In 2020, there were over 1.5 million recorded global NSCLC cases, with a significant impact on global health. Asia, including Japan, China, and India, had the highest NSCLC occurrences, while the United States and Europe accounted for about 30% of these cases.

Clinical trials play a crucial role in advancing NSCLC treatment options. Since 2018, there has been a surge in global biopharma industry trials. The Asia-Pacific region, led by Mainland China and South Korea, conducted over 40% of NSCLC studies, while the United States and Europe conducted over 50%, with Spain and France taking the lead. The Asia-Pacific region showed shorter enrollment periods and recruited more patients, contributing significantly to NSCLC research.

NSCLC treatments include small-molecule drugs like erlotinib and gefitinib, as well as anti-cancer drugs like bevacizumab and alectinib. Phase III developments involve bispecific or multispecific antibodies and small molecules, reflecting a commitment to finding better treatments.

Treatment for NSCLC is personalized, considering various factors like tumor histology, size, location, and genetic alterations. Surgical intervention is common for early-stage cases, often followed by chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Targeted medicines and immunotherapy have emerged as viable treatment options, offering hope for improved outcomes and quality of life for NSCLC patients.