The leading role of Henry Dunant Hospital and IMITHEA Group in the field of clinical research is now underscored by a major international study that has delivered impressive results, creating a new landscape in the fight against lung cancer. This is one of the largest global-scale clinical trials ever conducted with Greek participation, under the coordination of Dr. Ioannis Mountzios, Director of the 4th Oncology Clinic and Clinical Trials Unit at the Henry Dunant Hospital Center. The study opens new therapeutic pathways against small-cell lung cancer—an aggressive form of the disease, accounting for 15–20% of new diagnoses both in Greece and worldwide.
Focusing on a new class of drugs developed through biotechnology, and involving a significant number of patients treated at Henry Dunant and other Greek hospital centers, the clinical trial recorded up to a 40% reduction in the relative risk of death from the disease, by strengthening the immune system. Equally important is the fact that this new therapy appeared to be better tolerated than chemotherapy, significantly reducing the incidence of burdensome symptoms such as shortness of breath, coughing, and chest pain. The results of the international study were presented last month at the American Society of Clinical Oncology Annual Meeting and simultaneously published in the world's leading medical journal, The New England Journal of Medicine, with Mr. Mountzios as the first author and principal investigator, while the new therapeutic method has already been approved for widespread use. In particular, the results of the new therapeutic approach led to the breakthrough approval of the drug used (from the "T-cell engagers" class of drugs, called Tarlatamab) in the US and other countries (Canada, Brazil, the United Kingdom, Japan, Australia), while approval of the drug in Europe and Greece is expected in 2026.
On the occasion of World Lung Cancer Day (August 1), Henry Dunant and Mr. Mountzios are launching an educational initiative aimed at medical oncologists and other specialists to share the results of the global clinical trial and innovative immunotherapy. “Greece played a leading role in this significant scientific development. Many Greek hospitals participated in the clinical trial. Henry Dunant Hospital ranked first globally in patient enrollment—surpassing even world-renowned institutions like Memorial Cancer Center in New York and Shanghai University Hospital. Our international recognition clearly demonstrates the capabilities of Greek research centers, which stand on par with the best global institutions in terms of features, infrastructure, and especially access to innovative drugs. This marks a leading role for Greek oncology”, said Mr. Mountzios.
