A drug normally used to treat reoccurring breast cancer is being tested in San Antonio for another type of breast cancer.
A national clinical trial involving carboplatin is being given to women with triple negative aggressive breast cancer.
Angela Smith has already had a malignant lump removed after she was diagnosed with the triple negative aggressive form that tends to return with regular treatment.
African-Americans like Smith are more likely to be affected by the triple negative aggressive form, said Dr. Sharon Wilks, who is treating Smith.
"In individuals who do reoccur, it has powerful effects," Wilks, of Texas Oncology, said. "So the idea is that if we can introduce it a little earlier in the person who is at risk, maybe it can make a difference and keep it from reoccurring."
Smith said she jumped at the chance to participate in the trial to help other women.
"It makes sense to me to give it to someone like me, up front, so that I don't have to go through this again," she said.
Smith said her body is handling chemotherapy well. She only reports some neuropathy pain in her hands.
Wilks said it's very important for San Antonio patients to be aware of many local drug trials going on.
Not only can patients benefit from special medical care, but research efforts in the Alamo City are making a mark worldwide right now.
The clinical trial involving carboplatin was reported at the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium, which is taking place this week.