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Top stories in hematology/oncology: Allergan recalls breast implants linked to lymphoma, FDA grants breakthrough therapy designation to hepatocellular carcinoma drug

The top stories in hematology/oncology last week both resulted from FDA actions: Allergan’s agreeing to the agency’s request to recall specific models of its breast implants that may be related to a rare type of lymphoma and the agency granting breakthrough therapy designation to the Keytruda-Lenvima combination for hepatocellular carcinoma.

Other highlights included a study that found colorectal cancer diagnoses among U.S. patients aged younger than 50 years continued to climb over the past decade, a report that suggested administering chemotherapy 6 weeks before surgery for colon cancer has several benefits and a study that concluded childhood cancer survivors appeared more likely than the general population to die by suicide or from causes related to risky health behaviors.

At FDA’s request, Allergan recalls breast implants linked to rare lymphoma

In response to a request from FDA, Allergan recalled specific models of its textured breast implants due to a potential risk for breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma. Read more.

FDA grants breakthrough therapy designation to Keytruda- Lenvima combination for hepatocellular carcinoma

The FDA granted breakthrough therapy designation to pembrolizumab in combination with lenvatinib as first-line treatment for patients with advanced unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma who are not able to receive locoregional treatment. Read more.

Colorectal cancer incidence among younger US adults continues to rise

Colorectal cancer diagnoses among individuals aged younger than 50 years continued to increase in the United States over the past decade, according to results of a retrospective study published in Cancer. Read more.

Trial supports use of neoadjuvant chemotherapy for operable colon cancer

Administering chemotherapy 6 weeks before surgery for colon cancer was safe and reduced postoperative morbidity without adding to the cost or burden of treatment, according to recent findings from a recent trial. Read more.

Childhood cancer survivors at higher risk for suicide, death from risky behavior

Childhood cancer survivors appeared more likely than the general population to die by suicide or from causes related to risky health behaviors, according to results of a retrospective study published in Cancer. Read more.