Work

(Neo)adjuvant approvals for solid tumors by the US Food and Drug Administration 2010-2023

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: (Neo)adjuvant systemic treatments aim to improve overall survival by reducing recurrence risk; however, there can be challenges, such as reliance on surrogate endpoints, censoring, loss to follow-up, and impact on quality of life. We examine the design, reporting, and outcomes of US Food and Drug Administration-approved drugs for solid tumors. METHODS: We searched Food and Drug Administration (neo)adjuvant approvals for solid tumors 2010-2023 with time-to-event endpoints. Trial characteristics, endpoints, and censoring were evaluated descriptively. Statistical designs and sample size calculations were assessed for reproducibility and transparency. RESULTS: A total of 24 studies supporting 25 approvals met inclusion criteria. Common tumor types included melanoma (7 of 24, 29%), breast (6 of 24, 25%), and non-small cell lung cancer (6 of 24, 25%). Among 21 trials reporting overall survival, 52% (11 of 21) showed benefit at any time, but only 36% (4 of 11) reported overall survival benefits at the time of approval and/or primary publication. In 21 (88%) trials the expected number of events could be reproduced, in 11 (46%) trials sample size calculations could be attempted (though calculations often differed), and only 14 (58%) stated expected absolute numerical outcomes. Censoring rules were applied inconsistently; only 36% defined rules adequately. Quality-of-life outcomes were reported in 79%, with 31% reporting clinically meaningful declines in one or more domains. CONCLUSIONS: (Neo)adjuvant trials often lack transparency in sample size justifications and censoring rules. Approximately half demonstrated an overall survival improvement at any time, and one-third showed a decline in quality of life. Greater standardization in trial designs and reporting is needed to ensure trials align with patient and health-care priorities.

Source: JNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute

DOI: 10.1093/jnci/djag133