A new study found that a commonly used US stem cell transplant regimen for advanced neuroblastoma in children was associated with more acute toxicity, particularly to the kidneys and liver. The study informed the recent decision of the Children's Oncology Group to switch to an equally effective European approach.
The new ASTRO white paper recommends 10 fundamental elements for safe and effective IGRT practices, including establishing a multi-professional team and performing end-to-end testing for new procedures. The paper aims to improve the safety and effectiveness of image-guided radiation therapy in radiation oncology.
A Phase III clinical trial found that adding cetuximab to chemotherapy enables previously inoperable patients to undergo surgery, tripling the rates of successful surgery for liver metastasis. The combination also extends median overall survival by 10 months compared to chemotherapy alone.
The ASTRO white paper emphasizes the vital role of patient-specific peer review in improving patient safety and quality of care. The report details suggested targets for peer review throughout various areas within radiation therapy, prioritizing those most likely to impact patient outcomes.
Pediatric oncologist Garrett Brodeur will receive the Pediatric Oncology Award and deliver a lecture highlighting his work on predicting disease course in neuroblastoma. His research has led to better understanding of the cancer's biology and development of more effective treatments.
Outpatient oncology practices have seen a significant increase in performance on quality measures, especially in adopting new clinical practices. The mean normalized performance score improved from 71 to 85 percent between 2006 and 2010.
A prospective study found that children with low-risk retinoblastoma do not need postoperative chemotherapy to prevent disease recurrence or metastasis. The results suggest that certain patients with intermediate-risk disease can receive less aggressive adjuvant treatment or even forego it altogether.
The University of Louisville's interdisciplinary curriculum for oncology palliative education (iCOPE) prepares students to work together as a team, addressing psycho-social-spiritual and physical needs. This innovative program aims to improve patient care and graduate students who demand interdisciplinary teams.
A recent study published in The Lancet Oncology reveals that patients with low-grade serous carcinoma of the ovary or peritoneum can experience tumor stabilization or shrinkage after taking a regular dose of selumetinib. This breakthrough discovery offers new possibilities for treating previously chemoresistant tumors.
A Phase I clinical trial demonstrated the therapeutic effect of RNAi gene silencing in treating advanced cancer patients. The drug, ALN-VSP, presented good evidence for clinical utility and showed significant tumor response in 11 out of 37 patients.
A recent study by Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology has led to the redefinition of hormone-sensitive breast tumours, improving diagnosis and treatment outcomes. Gene expression analysis revealed discrepancies between histopathological data and molecular profiles, prompting a new definition that incorporates progesterone receptor levels.
A study by TGen and US Oncology Research identified genetic mutations in 14 metastatic TNBC patients, including TP53 and ERBB4 tumor suppressor genes. The research offers potential drug targets for this aggressive form of breast cancer.
The American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) has released its annual report on the top cancer advances of 2012, showcasing significant developments in precision medicine and targeted treatments. The report highlights seven new FDA approvals for anticancer agents, including therapies for breast and prostate cancers.
A series of studies by Intermountain Healthcare's Oncology Clinical Program shows that improving care across a large hospital system is possible through standardized care. Key findings include reduced mastectomies and lymph node removals in breast cancer patients, indicating a more consistent approach to treatment.
The American Society of Clinical Oncology's Quality Care Symposium reveals important advances in cancer care quality measurement, physician adherence to quality standards, and end-of-life care. The studies also highlight the overuse of contralateral prophylactic mastectomy.
A Phase 1 clinical trial has shown encouraging results for stereotactic radiosurgery in treating localized primary renal cancer, with 94% of patients experiencing decreased or stable disease and limited side effects. The non-invasive treatment technique may represent a potential new option for patients who have limited treatment options.
A new study from Penn researchers shows that implementing a Conditions Reporting System improves perceptions of safety and reduces incidents in multi-site clinical practices. The system, which encourages staff to report errors, has led to positive responses on staff surveys focusing on the culture of safety.
Researchers found that radiation therapy significantly improved overall and breast cancer-specific survival rates for elderly women with early-stage ER-positive breast cancer. The study analyzed data from over 29,000 women and showed that radiation treatment increased median survival by nearly four years compared to surgery alone.
Mark P. Carol, MD, a distinguished leader in IMRT and IGRT, has been recognized as ASTRO's 2012 Honorary Member for his groundbreaking approach to developing these techniques. He will be honored at the ASTRO 54th Annual Meeting on October 30, 2012.
A new French study found that anticoagulants significantly reduce the incidence of catheter-related deep vein thrombosis in cancer patients. However, guidelines recommending prophylactic anticoagulant treatment for these patients are still under review.
A landmark survey reveals that many countries fail to provide essential opioid medications for cancer pain relief, leaving hundreds of millions of patients suffering. The study's findings highlight the need to reformulate national plans and repeal excessive restrictions on cancer care.
The European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) has awarded 16 new centers with integrated oncology and palliative care accreditation. A new study from Italy highlights the underuse of adjuvant analgesics in cancer pain management, emphasizing close patient follow-up.
The 2012 Breast Cancer Symposium presents four major studies on the treatment of early breast cancer, confirming which patient populations benefit from screening interventions and surgical procedures. The research aims to improve treatment decisions and maximize benefits for patients.
A study of 340 stage III NSCLC patients found that prophylactic cranial irradiation (PCI) significantly reduces the risk of brain metastases, but no improvement in overall survival was observed. The rate of brain metastases for PCI-treated patients was 17.3%, compared to 26.8% for observational arm.
Patients with stage I non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) who received radiation therapy had an increased median survival of 21 months compared to 16 months. The percentage of patients not receiving treatment declined from 20 percent to 16 percent between 1999-2003 and 2004-2008.
Researchers found that adding bavituximab to docetaxel chemotherapy improves response rates, progression-free survival, and overall survival in late-stage non-squamous, non-small cell lung cancer (NS-NSCLC) patients. The study showed a doubling of the overall response rate compared to the control arm.
Crizotinib successfully shrinks tumors in patients with anaplastic lymphoma receptor tyrosine kinase (ALK) positive non-small cell lung cancer. The treatment showed a high overall response rate of 60% and improved median progression-free survival.
Researchers found that standard chemotherapy with paclitaxel, carboplatin, and bevacizumab is equally effective as an experimental regimen in treating advanced non-squamous non-small cell lung cancer. The study suggests that both regimens are tolerable but have different toxicities.
A study of 168 Stage III NSCLC patients found that married women had the best three-year survival rate of 46 percent, while single men had the worst rate of 3 percent. Married patients generally had improved survival rates compared to single patients, with 33 percent vs. 10 percent.
A study of 14,829 Hispanic lung cancer patients from the California Cancer Registry found that foreign-born Hispanics have an even lower risk of death due to improved socio-economic factors and neighborhood conditions. This contradicts the traditional 'Hispanic paradox' by highlighting the positive impact of social factors on survival.
Professors Ian Tannock and Jean Yves Blay will receive the 2012 ESMO Awards for their contributions to medical oncology. The European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) is recognized with the ESMO Lifetime Achievement Award.
A study found that urology-owned radiation oncology practices in Texas increase patients' travel distances by up to three times due to separate treatment centers. This practice model raises concerns about its impact on healthcare costs and patient care.
The American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) has awarded five physicians with research grants to promote the advancement of radiation therapy. The Junior Faculty Career Research Training Award and Residents/Fellows in Radiation Oncology Research Seed Grant Award support young researchers in radiation oncology, biology, physics, ...
The American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) has named its 2012 class of Fellows, recognizing their significant contributions to the field of radiation oncology. The new Fellows include renowned experts in research, patient care, education, and leadership.
The American Society for Radiation Oncology has selected J. Robert Cassady, George T.Y. Chen, and Mark W. Dewhirst as the Society's 2012 Gold Medal recipients for their groundbreaking research, clinical care, teaching, and service in radiation oncology.
A phase 1 clinical trial of the drug crizotinib achieved remissions with minimal side effects for 10 children with lymphoma and neuroblastoma. The study showed great potential for targeted therapy in children with anaplastic large cell lymphoma, with some patients achieving complete responses.
The American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) has released five new studies at its upcoming annual meeting, including those on precision medicine and cancer's genetic weak spots. These studies demonstrate improvements in treatment for aggressive cancers and provide valuable tools to lessen the side effects of cancer treatment.
Robert F. Ozols, a leading expert in ovarian cancer research, will be honored with the American Society of Clinical Oncology's 2012 Distinguished Achievement Award. He made significant contributions to advancing chemotherapy research and overcoming drug resistance.
Researchers have revised the glioblastoma classification system to accommodate treatment advances and molecular markers, aiming to better identify patients requiring aggressive therapy. The new system incorporates clinical variables, molecular biomarkers, and tumor characteristics to provide a more relevant prognosis.
Dr. Yael Mosse will be honored with the first James B. Nachman ASCO Junior Faculty Award in Pediatric Oncology at the ASCO Annual Meeting. Her groundbreaking research on neuroblastoma has led to major advances in treatment, including a national clinical trial of a new drug treatment.
A study by Michigan Oncology Quality Consortium found that most practices followed guidelines for breast, colorectal, and lung cancers, but had gaps in managing symptoms and end-of-life care. To improve quality, the consortium initiated a project to provide palliative care delivery.
Breast cancer patients treated with IMRT had lower incidence of acute and chronic toxicities compared to standard WBI. Larger breasted women also benefited from reduced toxicities with IMRT.
A recent study published in Journal of Thoracic Oncology suggests that CYFRA21-1 levels can reliably indicate patient response to chemotherapy for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Higher baseline concentrations were linked to poorer overall and failure-free survival. Further research is needed to confirm these findings.
A study found that over 80% of radiation oncologists discuss fertility risks with patients of childbearing age, but many receive inadequate education. The role of radiation oncologists in communicating fertility preservation options is crucial for improving quality of life and care for young cancer patients.
A study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology found that women who underwent chemotherapy with the CMF regimen between 1976 and 1995 scored slightly lower on cognitive tests compared to those without a history of cancer. The differences were subtle but statistically significant, affecting word learning, memory, and information ...
A study by Vall d'Hebron Institute of Oncology reveals a potential new strategy to boost efficacy and break down resistance in patients with HER2 positive breast cancer. The combination of two drugs shows promise as a third treatment option, offering hope for patients with advanced tumours.
A prospective study links Lynch syndrome with significantly increased risks of breast and pancreatic cancers, while relatives without genetic mutations have no increased risk. The study provides clearer estimates of cancer risks associated with Lynch syndrome and may inform screening and early detection strategies.
The American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) has developed a clinical practice guideline for the radiotherapeutic and surgical management of newly diagnosed brain metastases. The guideline provides evidence-based recommendations for choosing treatment modalities based on tumor factors and prognosis.
Researchers found that Toca 511 eliminates tumors in most animals after dosing with 5-FC, providing a dramatic survival benefit. The treatment was well-tolerated and did not cause toxicity over the six-month protocol.
A study published in the Journal of Thoracic Oncology found that a breath test using Metabolomx's colorimetric sensor array can detect lung cancer and differentiate between its types with high accuracy. The test shows promise as a non-invasive, rapid, and inexpensive companion diagnostic for early lung cancer detection.
The American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) has released its annual report on progress against cancer, showcasing the most significant developments in cancer research and policy. The report highlights advances in personalized treatment approaches, early detection, and new drug approvals for various cancers.
The BBVA Foundation-funded Tumor Biomarkers Research Program aims to develop targeted therapies for various types of cancer, including colorectal, breast, and lung cancer. The program will utilize biomarkers to identify unique molecular characteristics in each patient's tumor.
A study by the American Society for Radiation Oncology found that nearly three-quarters of cancer patients have insufficient vitamin D levels, with those deficient experiencing more advanced cancer. Vitamin D supplementation showed promise in improving serum levels and potentially impacting treatment outcomes.
A study by the American Society for Radiation Oncology found that cancer patients in their 60s were more likely to use web-based technology to answer quality of life survey questions. The use of this technology increased survey completion rates from 52% to 90% six months after treatment.
A European Survey of Oncology Nurse Breakthrough Cancer Pain Practices revealed an enormous opportunity to improve pain outcomes through education, with most nurses reporting inadequate training and confusion over medication options. The survey calls for nurse-specific guidelines and training to address the gap in management.
Linda Meyer, a radiation oncology nurse manager at Allegheny General Hospital, has been selected for the 2011 ASTRO Nurse Excellence Award. She is recognized for her exceptional care and commitment to educating nurses in the field.
Three European medical oncologists, Johann de Bono, Rafael Rosell, and Hans Jörg Senn, have been recognized by ESMO for their groundbreaking work in prostate cancer management, lung cancer treatment, and breast cancer care. The awards celebrate their commitment to improving cancer research and clinical practice.
Gilda's Club South Florida participates in ASTRO's Survivor Circle exhibit to raise awareness about cancer survivorship programs. The organization receives a $10,000 grant to provide support to newly diagnosed patients and their families.
The American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) has awarded five physicians with research grants to support their career development and research in radiation oncology. This year's winners include Abhijit Patel, MD, PhD, and David Kozono, MD, PhD, who will receive a $100,000 award over two years.
The American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) has named 21 esteemed members as its 2011 Fellows, acknowledging their significant contributions to radiation oncology. These distinguished professionals have demonstrated excellence in research, patient care, education, and leadership, making them highly respected in the field.