A trial comparing 6 months and 12 months of trastuzumab (Herceptin) for early breast cancer (PERSEPHONE)

This trial is looking at whether women with early breast cancer can safely have trastuzumab (Herceptin) for 6 months instead of 12.

Women with early stage breast cancer may have chemotherapy as part of their treatment. They may have this before or after surgery. If their breast cancer produces high levels of a protein called HER2, they will also have trastuzumab. This helps to reduce the risk of the cancer coming back.

Women usually have trastuzumab for 12 months. But doctors are not sure if treatment needs to be this long. It may work just as well if you have it for a shorter period of time. Also, having trastuzumab for less time may reduce the risk of side effects, such as damage to the heart.

In this trial, the researchers will compare 12 months of trastuzumab with 6 months. Everybody taking part will have chemotherapy as well. The aims of the trial are to:

• find out if 6 months of treatment works as well as 12 months

• see if having treatment for a shorter time can help lower the risk of damage to the heart

Taking part in this trial will not delay or affect any other treatment you have, such as radiotherapy or hormone therapy.