S-1-based concurrent chemoradiotherapy in the treatment of locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis protocol.

backgroundLung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the world, and non-small cell lung cancer accounts for > 75% of all lung cancer cases. Cisplatin-based concurrent chemoradiotherapy has become the standard treatment for locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Third-generation chemotherapy agents plus cisplatin have been most commonly used in concurrent chemoradiotherapy, which is also associated with more adverse effects and acute toxicities. S-1 as an oral chemotherapeutic agent exhibits higher antitumor activity, less adverse effects, and better biological availability. Recently, studies illustrated S-1-based concurrent chemoradiotherapy also had excellent effects in the treatment of locally advanced NSCLC.

methodsA systematic literature search will be performed through February 2018 using MEDLINE, EMBASE, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Google Scholar for relevant articles published in any language. Randomized controlled trials and prospective comparative studies will be included. All meta-analyses will be performed using Review Manager software. The quality of the studies will be evaluated using the guidelines listed in the Cochrane Handbook. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statements will be followed until the findings of the systematic review and meta-analysis are reported.

resultsThe results of this systematic review and meta-analysis will be published in a peer-reviewed journal.

conclusionOur study will draw an objective conclusion of the efficacy and safety of S-1-based chemoradiotherapy in the treatment of locally advanced unresectable NSCLC and provides level I evidence for clinical decision makings.