The New Nation - Internet Edition

WASHINGTON-A drug made by Genentech Inc. received federal approval Friday to treat breast cancer, which could represent a major shift in standards for assessing the effectiveness of cancer medicines.

Going against the recommendation of its panel of advisers, the Food and Drug Administration cleared Avastin, which is already approved for treating lung and colon cancer, based on findings that it slowed tumor growth.

Approval shift: Approval for late-stage cancer treatments usually depends on a drug showing it extended or improved the quality of patients' lives. Avastin showed neither in a study, according to Genentech.

Wall Street analysts believe the decision opens the door for other cancer drugs to be approved for their tumor-shrinking capabilities.

The Y-Me National Breast Cancer Organization called Avastin an important new option for patients.