A study presented at the ESMO Congress found that a patient's overall survival time is linked to the time to treatment failure for each line of chemotherapy. Analyzing data from 980 women with metastatic breast cancer, researchers identified this key factor as the most significant determinant of overall survival.
UK scientists have reported direct evidence that taking up smoking results in epigenetic changes associated with cancer. A study funded by Cancer Research UK found women who started smoking had a higher risk of acquiring p16 methylation, a type of epigenetic change linked to tumor suppressor genes.
Researchers have identified a natural substance in a fungus that infects a common weed, showing potential as the first stinkbug repellent. The substance repelled up to 90% of stinkbugs and was almost twice as effective as naphthalene, a gold-standard for measuring insect repellents.
Research reveals that budgetary constraints have led to a less rigorous FDA inspection process, failing to provide necessary oversight and guidance to the pharmaceutical manufacturing industry. This can result in manufacturers taking advantage of the system and prioritizing complaints over addressing actual safety issues.
Researchers report a new surgical technique, balloon kyphoplasty, offers quick pain relief and improves quality of life for patients with vertebral compression fractures. The procedure, which involves inflation and injection of bone cement, shows sustained improvements in disability and mobility.
Erlotinib has been shown to improve progression-free survival in patients with advanced lung cancer carrying EGFR activating mutations. The OPTIMAL trial found that erlotinib nearly tripled progression-free survival compared to a standard chemotherapy combination. Safety analyses also showed lower rates of adverse events with erlotinib.
A new drug targeting the MET receptor added benefit to erlotinib in patients with advanced lung cancer who express MET, improving overall survival and progression-free survival
Two clinical trials show that intensive lifestyle interventions with diet, physical activity, and behavioral support can result in significant weight loss and improvements in cardiometabolic risk factors. The studies found that weight loss was more pronounced in the first six months, but similar at 12 months, with reductions in waist c...
A randomized controlled trial found that a structured weight loss program with free prepared meals, combined with one-to-one counseling, resulted in significant weight loss (up to 16 pounds) for participants. The program was maintained at two-year follow-up, suggesting long-term effectiveness.
Researchers found that individuals who dine at establishments labeled as healthy tend to underestimate their actual caloric consumption and subsequently indulge in high-calorie treats. To combat this effect, experts suggest doubling estimated calorie counts for meals served at these restaurants.
A Phase II clinical trial of MLN8237, a selective Aurora A kinase inhibitor, demonstrates single-agent activity with durable disease control in some patients with ovarian cancer resistant to platinum-based chemotherapy. The study found encouraging responses in several patients, suggesting potential for future combination therapies.