Early detection of lung cancerApril 20, 2005This study was aimed at the detection of lung cancer in its early stages amongst high-risk persons by means of Computerised Axial Tomography (CAT). Currently, 85% of cases are diagnosed at a late stage, which considerably reduces the rate of cure. Lung cancer is the most common carcinoma in western countries and the one that causes most deaths; more than those caused by breast cancer, cancer of the colon and prostate cancer put together. Tobacco is the main cause of this illness, with the risk of it arising persisting even twenty years after giving up smoking. In general this pathology is diagnosed on its symptoms appearing, indicating that it is at an advanced stage and with poor prognosis. In fact, using traditional techniques, only 15% of cases are detected at an early stage; this is why it is essential to find tools for early detection which will guarantee the curing of the illness. The research by the Lung Service at the Navarre University Hospital used thoracic CAT to periodically analyse persons at high risk of developing lung cancer, i.e. over-forties who have smoked at least one packet a day over ten years. The study is part of the ELCAP (Early Lung Cancer Action Program), international project in which centres from the United States, Europe, Japan, China and Israel participated. Results The research proved the efficacy of this imaging technique for the early-stage detection of lung cancer. The published results correspond to the first 1000 persons who took part in the project at the University Hospital. Concretely, cancer was detected in 14 individuals, thirteen at stage 1, the earliest and most curable stage. This work confirmed the conclusions obtained by ELCAP from more than 30,000 persons. Despite the direct link between tobacco and lung cancer, only 15% of smokers develop the disease. Thus, it is fundamental to find any risk factors that predispose having this pathology. This study discovered that there was a greater risk amongst asymptomatic smokers than amongst those who were diagnosed with obstructive pulmonary disease with spirometry. In any case, it is essential to continue with these lines of research aimed at identifying the population at high risk with precision. Specifically, a priority line of investigation at the University Hospital and the CIMA Centre at Navarre University involves the study of biomolecular techniques and their combination with radiological tests that help in the early detection of lung cancer. Once the first results are published, the project will continue to review, by means of CAT, those patients who have not developed the illness. What is wanted is a better definition of the use of this technique in order to judge its efficacy in the detection of new cancers amongst this population at risk. Moreover, the effect of this monitoring on the weaning of participants off the tobacco habit will be analysed. Elhuyar Fundazioa |
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| Related Lung Cancer Current Events and Lung Cancer News Articles Researchers Identify Role of Gene in Tumor Development, Growth and Progression Virginia Commonwealth University Massey Cancer Center and VCU Institute of Molecular Medicine researchers have identified a gene that may play a pivotal role in two processes that are essential for tumor development, growth and progression to metastasis. Common pain relief medication may encourage cancer growth Although morphine has been the gold-standard treatment for postoperative and chronic cancer pain for two centuries, a growing body of evidence is showing that opiate-based painkillers can stimulate the growth and spread of cancer cells. Study raises concerns about outdoor second-hand smoke Indoor smoking bans have forced smokers at bars and restaurants onto outdoor patios, but a new University of Georgia study in collaboration with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggests that these outdoor smoking areas might be creating a new health hazard. Carnegie Mellon researchers link health-care debate to risk of dying in US and Europe The current health care debate in the United States is complicated. Trade-offs between heath care expenditures, lifestyle choices and life expectancy have been suggested but seldom clearly demonstrated. PET imaging response a prognostic factor after thoracic radiation therapy for lung cancer A rapid decline in metabolic activity on a PET scan after radiation therapy for non-small cell lung cancer is correlated with good local tumor control, according to a study presented by researchers at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital at the 51st ASTRO Annual Meeting. Study of concurrent radiotherapy, chemotherapy shows promise in small cell lung cancer Treating limited stage small cell lung cancer(LSCL) with a combination of accelerated high-dose radiotherapy and chemotherapy has shown encouraging results. Stereotactic radiotherapy offers noninvasive, effective treatment for frail patients with early-stage lung cancer Stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) should be considered a new standard of care for early-stage lung cancer treatment in patients with co-existing medical problems, according to results from a national clinical trial led by UT Southwestern Medical Center physicians. Preventative brain radiation for lung cancer patients: Benefits and risks A new study is taking a closer look at the benefits versus risks for lung cancer patients to undergo preventative brain radiation therapy as a means to stop cancer from spreading to the brain. Study spotlights efficacy of questionnaire to identify patients at high risk for lung cancer A study featured in the November issue of the Journal of Thoracic Oncology confirms the success of a simple questionnaire designed to identify patients at high risk of lung cancer. Intervals between lung cancer diagnosis and treatment displays a health care disparity Research published in the November 2009 issue of the Journal of Thoracic Oncology has found that intervals between lung cancer suspicion, diagnosis and treatment may be attributed to health care system discrepancies. More Lung Cancer Current Events and Lung Cancer News Articles |
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