Novocure's PANOVA-3 Trial Shows Survival Gains in Pancreatic Cancer

Novocure has announced the successful completion of its Phase 3 PANOVA-3 trial, marking a significant milestone in the treatment of unresectable, locally advanced pancreatic adenocarcinoma. The trial demonstrated that Tumour Treating Fields (TTFields) therapy, when used alongside gemcitabine and nab-paclitaxel as a first-line treatment, significantly improved median overall survival (mOS) compared to standard chemotherapy alone. Patients receiving TTFields therapy achieved a median survival of 16.20 months versus 14.16 months in the control group, reflecting a statistically significant 2-month survival advantage (hazard ratio = 0.819; P = 0.039).

The survival benefits were even more pronounced over time, with a 13% improvement in the 12-month survival rate and a remarkable 33% increase at 24 months. Dr. Vincent Picozzi, a key investigator in the trial, highlighted the importance of these findings, noting that achieving a positive overall survival endpoint in pancreatic cancer is a rare and critical advancement. The safety profile of TTFields was consistent with previous studies, reinforcing its potential as a well-tolerated treatment option for this challenging patient population.

Novocure is now preparing to file for regulatory approval in key markets, including the U.S., EU, and Japan, with plans to present the full PANOVA-3 data at an upcoming medical congress. Additionally, the company continues its research with the ongoing Phase 2 PANOVA-4 trial, which investigates the combination of TTFields with atezolizumab, gemcitabine, and nab-paclitaxel for metastatic pancreatic cancer, with results expected in 2026.