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Q-TWiST in Oncology: A Patient-Centric View of Benefit-Risk

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Introduction

We help to transform complex clinical data into meaningful, patient-focused insights. In a recent post-marketing initiative, our Evidence & Value Generation (EVG) team applied the Q-TWiST methodology to evaluate a novel oncology treatment—delivering a compelling narrative around benefit-risk balance.

What is Q-TWiST?

Q-TWiST (Quality-adjusted Time Without Symptoms or Toxicity) is a health economics method that integrates survival outcomes with quality of life. It breaks down survival time into three key health states:

  • TOX – Time with treatment-related toxicity
  • TWiST – Time without symptoms or toxicity
  • REL – Time after disease relapse

Each state is weighted using EQ-5D-5L utility scores, reflecting the patient’s experience and preferences.

Key Findings

Using restricted mean survival time (RMST) and non-parametric bootstrapping, we compared Q-TWiST across treatment arms and biomarker-defined subgroups. The results were clear:

  • >15% Q-TWiST gain for the investigational therapy
  • Longer TWiST and reduced TOX exposure
  • Clinically meaningful improvements in both survival and tolerability

These insights support a strong value proposition for modern cancer therapies – where quality of life matters as much as quantity.

Why It Matters

This analysis goes beyond traditional endpoints to answer a critical question: “What does this treatment mean for the patient’s day-to-day life?”

It’s a powerful tool for:

  • HTA submissions
  • Global value dossiers
  • Strategic evidence generation

Our Expertise

We specialize in bridging the gap between clinical trial outcomes and payer-relevant evidence. Our team brings deep expertise in:

  • Advanced statistical modelling
  • Utility integration
  • Real-world value communication

Whether you’re preparing for reimbursement discussions or building a global evidence strategy, we deliver credible, data-driven insights tailored to today’s evolving healthcare landscape.

Services Provided
  • Evidence and Value Generation

Discover how Veramed can also provide you with flexible and collaborative statistical support, from study design through to submission and beyond.

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