Time on treatment analysis demonstrated that every year on interferon reduced the risk of progression to myelofibrosis (MF) by 9% (HR 0.91 [95% CI, 0.87–0.95]; p < 0.001), and was associated with a mortality risk reduction by 6% per year (HR 0.94 [95% CI, 0.90–0.99]; p < 0.012). Discontinuation rates were similar between IFN (2.2/100 patient-years) and HU (2.8/100 patient-years)
Furthermore, IFN was also shown to reduce the risk of Myelofibrosis compared with HU and Phlebotomy
Thanks Manouche as a 50 year old with ET calr about to get treatment beyond aspirin this post has helped convince me to choose interferon over hydroxy.
That is very comforting news. But I did read it is possible that either interferon or the MPN may increase peripheral neuropathy. My feet are showing mild signs of this. My hope is ithat will stay mild. I think the greater benefit is not to progress but numbness in feet is something I will watch carefully. Mairead
Thanks for this link Manouche. I am currently on Pegasys but having significant side effects, so I am watching research on the positive benefits to weigh up my options, and this article is helpful. For information - as well as the much reported fatigue side effect and neuralgia, I have had pericarditis, myocarditis, pneumonia and significant breathlessness which seem to be related to PEG, though monitoring is ongoing. I can't take Hydrea (causes my platelets to oscillate), so my meds options are limited. We need so much more research for MPNers. PV dx 2017.
Peg-Interferon therapy, contraindications
Hydroxicarbamide to interferon 
Interferon and Hypothyroidism 
Peg Interferon Journey
Longterm Interferon treatment
