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REPORTS OF CANCER'S IMMINENT DEATH WERE AN EXAGGERATION''Of Mice, Men, and Cancer Cures'' (News: Analysis & Commentary, May 18) points to the gap between hype and uncertainty in modern drug development. For a therapeutic protein that works in the animal-disease model, there is less than a 10% chance of it getting to market. It also takes at least six to eight years to complete the human testing required for regulatory filing before it can be approved. And the candidate could drop out during any of the three phases of clinical trials for reasons ranging from lack of efficacy to high toxicity. The hype of this miracle cure has generated speculation in the biotech company that owns its development rights and has created false hope for patients desperate for a cure. The failure will not only affect the stock price but will also undermine confidence in the biotech industry. While the media are eager to publish stories that attract attention, it also is their responsibility to caution the reader. A clarification of the risks and realistic expectations might aid the commercialization process of future biotech products by building consumer and investor confidence.
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Updated May 28, 1998 by bwwebmaster
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