The ATAC trial (Anastrozole, Tamoxifen, Alone or in Combination) demonstrated that aromatase inhibitor therapy in postmenopausal ER-positive breast cancer patients was superior to tamoxifen in all of the following respects EXCEPT:
- A Disease-free survival
- B Overall survival at 5 years ✓
- C Time to recurrence
- D Incidence of contralateral breast cancer
Correct answer: B. Overall survival at 5 years
Explanation
The ATAC trial showed anastrozole was superior to tamoxifen in disease-free survival, time to recurrence, and contralateral breast cancer reduction in postmenopausal ER-positive patients. However, at 5-year median follow-up, no significant overall survival benefit was demonstrated, partly due to crossover and subsequent therapies. Overall survival differences typically require longer follow-up and have not been consistently proven at short intervals.
Reference: Bailey & Love's Short Practice of Surgery, 27th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.