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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
An international group of scientists has taken the first step on the road to targeting radiotherapy dosage to individual patients by means of their genetic characteristics.
Adding cetuximab to chemotherapy reduces advanced lung cancer death risk by 13 percent
Patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer who are given cetuximab (Erbitux) in addition to chemotherapy are 13% less likely to die than those who receive chemotherapy alone, regardless of which chemotherapy drug cocktail is used, new research finds. They also experience slower disease progression and an increased chance of tumour shrinkage.
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
There may be a way around the harsh skin toxicity associated with a widely used cancer drug, according to a study published online this week in Cancer Biology and Therapy by researchers from City of Hope and the Kimmel Cancer at Jefferson.
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Palliative Care Consultations in Head and Neck Cancer by Sara Booth (Editor), Andrew Davies (Editor) This is the fifth book in an international, multi-contributed series aimed at providing practical, clinical guidance on how to deal with difficult symptoms related to specific cancer sites. In this volume the Editors bring together first-rate palliative care with oncological treatment for patients with head and neck cancer. Head and neck cancer is one of the most frightening and distressing cancers for patients and their families as it affects appearance, the ability to speak, and the ability to eat. Pain which is difficult to treat, infection, and disfiguring surgery with wounds that often do not heal, are common accompaniments of advanced disease. In addition, psychological distress, loneliness, and isolation are often experienced by patients. Head and neck cancer is not that common... |
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Anti-Stress Microwaveable Neck Pillow by Earth Therapeutics Ergonomically designed to gently drape around the neck, the Anti-Stress Neck Pillow enfolds you in its comforting embrace to relax and soothe tired, sore neck and shoulder muscles. A luxuriously soft cotton outer shell pampers and coddles while the gentle, caressing weight of the pillow does wonders to relieve tightness and stiffness in the neck, back, and shoulders. The balmy mind-calming blend of chamomile, lavender, and citrus completes and enhances these physical benefits by offering a totally relaxing, sensory experience. |
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Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Ribbon Mouse Pad by MyHeritageWear.com The Head and Neck Cancer Ribbon proudly displayed on a mouse pad. There is no better way to achieve awareness for the meaning of the Head and Neck Cancer Ribbon than to display it on your mouse pad for everyone to see. The mouse pad measures at 9.25 x 7.75, it is machine washable, and the colors will not fade or run. Start gaining awareness today by presenting your Head and Neck Cancer Ribbon mouse pad at work or at home. It is certain to keep your mouse rolling in style all while gaining support and awareness! |
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Somme Institute Neckline Neck Cream 2 oz (56.9 g) by Somme Inc. |
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New Balance RFTC Pink Ribbon Performance Tank - Wo ( sz. L, White/Pink ) by New Balance Support breast cancer awareness while racing for the cure in this Pink Ribbon Performance Tank. Made of 100% cotton, the knit crew-neck tank has a straight silhouette with a rib-knit collar. A screenprinted "Flying NB" logo on center back neck and embroidered "Pink RIbbon" on the left chest provide subtle and attractive accents. Made in USA. |
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Meeting the Challenges of Oral and Head and Neck Cancer: A Survivor's Guide by Nancy E. Leupold (Author), James J. Sciubba (Author), Nancy E. Leupold (Editor), James J. Sciubba (Editor) Nancy Leupold, herself a survivor, and president and founder of Support for People with Oral and Head and Neck Cancer (SPOHNC), and James J. Sciubba present an overview of the different disciplines involved in the treatment of oral and head and neck cancer, with emphasis on providing information and survivor tips to help survivors cope with the disease, its treatment, and their consequential side effects. This book takes a deliberately different stance and approach from other survivor guides, in that it concentrates on helping the individual who has completed treatment and is now on the road to recovery. Furthermore, it is unique in that it is attempting to meet the challenges of oral and head and neck cancer with specific information, in the form of lists and tables of products and... |
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