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Integrated approach to IMRT provides quality care for head and neck cancer patients
October 29, 2007Results from a University of Pittsburgh study demonstrate that intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) for head and neck cancer can be uniformly delivered in a large health care system of academic and community cancer centers through a centralized planning and treatment process. The findings were presented today at the 49th annual meeting of the American Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology (ASTRO) in Los Angeles.
"Our study demonstrates that it is feasible for head and neck cancer patients to receive IMRT in their own communities without sacrificing high-quality care," said Dwight Heron, M.D., associate professor of radiation oncology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and director of radiation oncology, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC). "This is possible through an integrated network in which treatment is standardized across all cancer centers."
According to study results, there were no significant differences in toxicity profiles and treatment outcomes in 604 head and neck cancer patients treated with IMRT at 12 community cancer centers and one academic flagship facility. Two hundred and forty-eight patients (41 percent) were treated at the flagship facility, and 356 patients (59 percent) received IMRT at one of the community centers. All 13 centers, connected through a telemedicine network, followed the same clinical pathway guidelines for the radiotherapy management of head and neck cancer, which included specific details on volumes for radiation treatment planning and recommended doses of IMRT. When the investigators compared outcomes between the academic center and the community centers, they found that there were no significant differences between survival or recurrence rates.
"By standardizing planning and treatment for IMRT, patients who live in remote locations can benefit from the same quality of care available at a large National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center," said Dr. Heron. "Bringing advanced radiation therapy to community locations can have a very positive effect on a patient's quality of life by relieving the anxiety and stress of traveling for treatment."
University of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences
"By standardizing planning and treatment for IMRT, patients who live in remote locations can benefit from the same quality of care available at a large National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center," said Dr. Heron. "Bringing advanced radiation therapy to community locations can have a very positive effect on a patient's quality of life by relieving the anxiety and stress of traveling for treatment."
University of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences
Neck Cancer Current Events and Neck Cancer News RSSPMH finding may help some tonsil cancer patients avoid chemotherapy
Clinical researchers at Princess Margaret Hospital (PMH) have confirmed that patients with oropharyngeal squamous cell cancer ("tonsil cancer") harbour a common type of human papilloma virus (HPV16), but also that such cancers are very sensitive to radiation.
New laryngoscope could make difficult intubations easier
A new tool developed by a Medical College of Georgia resident and faculty member may make it easier to place assisted breathing devices under difficult circumstances.
Rare head and neck cancer linked to HPV, study finds
An increase in cases of a rare type of head and neck cancer appears to be linked to HPV, or human papillomavirus, according to a new study from researchers at the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center.
Curcumin may inhibit nicotine-induced activation of head and neck cancers
Curcumin, the compound that gives curry powder its yellow/orange color, may inhibit the adverse effects of nicotine in patients with head and neck cancer who continue to smoke.
Study finds 231 new genes associated with head and neck cancer
A Henry Ford Hospital study has identified 231 new genes associated with head and neck cancer, one of the most deadly cancers responsible for 2.1 percent of all cancer deaths in the United States.
U of T researchers create microchip that can detect type and severity of cancer
U of T researchers have used nanomaterials to develop a microchip sensitive enough to quickly determine the type and severity of a patient's cancer so that the disease can be detected earlier for more effective treatment.
Identification of highly radiosensitive patients may lead to side effect-free radiotherapy
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Adding cetuximab to chemotherapy reduces advanced lung cancer death risk by 13 percent
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Prevent periodontitis to reduce the risk of head and neck cancer
Chronic periodontitis, a form of gum disease, is an independent risk factor for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. This suggests the need for increased efforts to prevent and treat periodontitis as a possible means to reduce the risk of this form of cancer.
Prodrug could help curb skin toxicity related to EGFR-inhibiting cancer drugs
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Head and Neck Cancer: A Multidisciplinary Approach by Louis B Harrison (Editor), Roy B Sessions (Editor), Waun K Hong (Editor) This book employs a two-part approach to treating patients with head and neck cancer: maximize the chance for a cure while maintaining a strong emphasis on quality of life. Although not seen as commonly as other aggressive forms, head and neck cancer is a devastating disease that has tremendous implications on the overall health of the patient, as well as their appearance and quality of life. The goal of the editors was to create the first truly multidisciplinary book in this field that addresses all aspects and treatment options. The book was designed to be a comprehensive textbook crossing all disciplines and representing a wide spectrum of specialists throughout the country, including surgical, radiation, and medical oncologists, as well as dentists, pathologists, radiologists and... |
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