Italy launches breast cancer clinical trial and patient support study

New clinical developments and patient surveys in Italy highlight both medical progress and systemic challenges in breast cancer care.

The Fondazione Umberto Veronesi Ets has launched the Eurycleia clinical study in collaboration with Harvard University. This research evaluates the efficacy of trastuzumab deruxtecan, an antibody-drug conjugate (ADC), for patients with early-stage HR+/Her2- breast cancer. The study aims to reduce the risk of recurrence by using a ‘Trojan horse’ approach, where antibodies selectively deliver chemotherapy directly to cancer cells. The trial involves over 500 patients across more than 30 Italian medical centers.

Parallel to medical advancements, a survey by Iqvia Italia and Europa Donna Italia reveals significant gaps in patient support. Only 40% of women living with breast cancer feel fully informed about their disease, and many report a lack of guidance regarding daily life, such as nutrition, psychological well-being, and sexuality. Experts emphasize that the fear of cancer recurrence (FCR) and the impact of treatment on intimacy are critical psychological issues that require a multidisciplinary approach to improve overall quality of life.