Andrea S. Blevins Primeau, PhD, MBA

Andrea S. Blevins Primeau, PhD, MBA, is a freelance medical writer and editor based in central Pennsylvania. She enjoys writing about a variety of topics including oncology, cardiovascular disease, and autoimmune disorders. Previously, she conducted research investigating the role of pharmacogenetics on the efficacy of oncologic therapies.

All articles by Andrea S. Blevins Primeau, PhD, MBA

Black patients were half as likely to receive remdesivir as White patients, according to researchers from the CCC19.

Gynecologic Cancer

TVUS ET Screening Misses More Cases of Endometrial Cancer in Black Women Than in White Women

By

Andrea S. Blevins Primeau, PhD, MBA

July 30, 2021

The disparity is due to the greater prevalence of fibroids and nonendometrioid histologic type in Black women, according to researchers.

The future of chemotherapy-based options for patients with HER2-negative MBC is evolving, with emerg

Floxacin Antibiotics May Augment Treatment of Lung and Bladder Cancers by Inhibiting RSK4

By

Andrea S. Blevins Primeau, PhD, MBA

July 29, 2021

RSK4-targeting floxacins could boost the efficacy of chemotherapy.

The researchers found 21 early-onset cancer cases carrying the novel pathogenic TP53 variant.

Addition of Pembrolizumab ‘Should Be New Standard of Care’ for Early Triple-Negative Breast Cancer

By

Andrea S. Blevins Primeau, PhD, MBA

July 28, 2021

Pembrolizumab improved pathologic complete response rates and event-free survival.

General Oncology

Solid Organ Transplant Linked to Reduced Overall Survival, Not Cancer-Specific Survival

By

Andrea S. Blevins Primeau, PhD, MBA

July 27, 2021

The findings support current management strategies for cancer patients, according to researchers.

Nab-paclitaxel significantly improved progression-free survival and disease control rate in patients

Bempegaldesleukin Plus Nivolumab Elicits Responses in Treatment-Naïve, Advanced Melanoma

By

Andrea S. Blevins Primeau, PhD, MBA

July 26, 2021

More than half of patients responded, and responses deepened over time.

While researchers seek better methods to preserve ovarian function, new tools are being developed to

Gynecologic Cancer

Rucaparib Bests Standard of Care in BRCA-Mutated, Relapsed Ovarian Cancer

By

Andrea S. Blevins Primeau, PhD, MBA

July 13, 2021

Rucaparib prolonged progression-free survival.

Results of studies in ovarian cancer with agents bevacizumab and pazopanib has “raised the bar” for

Gynecologic Cancer

Benefit of Niraparib Maintenance May Extend Beyond First Progression in Ovarian Cancer

By

Andrea S. Blevins Primeau, PhD, MBA

July 14, 2021

There was an improvement in second progression-free survival, but not overall survival, with niraparib.

A retrospective study showed improved survival among patients with ovarian cancer treated with beta-

Gynecologic Cancer

Atezolizumab Does Not Prolong Progression-Free Survival in Newly Diagnosed, Advanced Ovarian Cancer

By

Andrea S. Blevins Primeau, PhD, MBA

July 12, 2021

There was no benefit with atezolizumab, regardless of PD-L1 status.

Black female doctor speaking to a Black male patient

Gastrointestinal Cancers

Universal Health Care Associated With a Lower Risk of Death in Colon Cancer

By

Andrea S. Blevins Primeau, PhD, MBA

July 9, 2021

Results suggest universal health care could reduce racial disparities in survival.

Patients may find misinformation on websites or social media forums, but doctors can help by recommending reliable sources.

General Oncology

Public Interest in Cancer Screenings Decreased Early During the COVID-19 Pandemic

By

Andrea S. Blevins Primeau, PhD, MBA

July 9, 2021

Researchers observed a “sharp” decline in public interest.

Next post in General Oncology

A statement recommends including cancer patients and survivors in COVID-19 vaccine trials.

ASCO and Friends: Cancer Patients Should Be Included in COVID-19 Vaccine Trials