Friends of Cancer Research (Friends) is hosting a free, advocates-focused webinar on April 23 to build on discussions from the Tuesday, April 7 External Control Arms (ECAs) in Oncology Drug Development public meeting. ECAs use data external to the ongoing trial, such as from prior clinical trials or real-world data, to provide comparative evidence when traditional randomized trials are impractical or unfeasible, particularly in settings such as rare cancers, rapidly progressing diseases, or other small patient populations. As modern approaches to evidence generation continue to evolve, ECAs are emerging as a promising tool to inform regulatory decision-making and accelerate drug development—particularly in rare cancers and in settings where traditional randomized controlled trials may not be feasible. When supported by high-quality data, rigorous methodology, and early regulatory alignment, ECAs have the potential to make clinical trials more efficient, interpretable, and patient-centered.  

The webinar is designed for patient advocates and professionals across research, industry, and regulatory affairs who want to deepen their understanding of how ECAs are being used to strengthen evidence generation in oncology drug development. The discussion will also address key challenges in constructing credible ECAs, including data completeness, comparability across data sources, and how results can be interpreted reliably. Attendees are encouraged to watch the public meeting  in advance. Advocates who joined the public meeting earlier in the month are encouraged to submit questions or topics for clarification in advance by clicking the button below. 

AGENDA

1:00 PM: Opening Remarks & Panel Introductions

1:05 PM: Panel Discussion
Panelists will discuss the key challenges facing ECA use and how stakeholders are working to address them to enable more reliable application in oncology drug development.

• Cassadie Moravek, Pancreatic Cancer Action Network – Moderator
• Ashita Batavia, J&J Innovative Medicine
• Elizabeth Garrett-Mayer, American Society of Clinical Oncology 
• Eva May, Friends Advisory Advocate

1:25 PM: Audience Q&A Session 

2:00 PM: Meeting Adjourned 

Agenda is subject to change.