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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Researchers have discovered a method to visualize gene number and protein expression in individual cells, potentially leading to clearer understandings of cancer and complex diseases. The fluorescent in situ gene protein assay combines FISH and in situ proximity ligation to resolve individual protein molecules.
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.
Researchers found that Wikipedia's cancer information is accurate and comparable in depth to peer-reviewed sites like PDQ, but less readable due to complex language and hyperlinks. In contrast, PDQ is written in simpler English and offers more patient-friendly explanations.
The American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) is partnering with the Cancer Support Community Greater Miami to raise awareness of cancer survivorship issues. The partnership will be showcased at ASTRO's 53rd Annual Meeting, where attendees can learn about the programs offered by the Cancer Support Community Greater Miami.
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.
A study found that trastuzumab increases the risk of heart problems in elderly women with a history of heart disease or diabetes. The researchers recommend referring these patients to a cardiologist and monitoring for cardiac function.
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.
The American Society for Radiation Oncology has published a white paper to improve the safe use of IMRT, which requires more time and resources from cancer clinics. The report provides practical guidance to strengthen IMRT programs, reducing errors and improving treatment outcomes.
A new study found that adding radiation therapy to breast-conserving surgery improves disease-free survival and reduces cancer recurrence in women with early breast cancer. The treatment significantly lowered the rate of recurrences in the breast and lymph nodes, as well as in other parts of the body.
A study by University of Pennsylvania researchers found that even with private health insurance, newly diagnosed cancer patients often struggle to schedule an appointment with an oncologist. The authors suggest that patient navigator programs and staff training could help improve access to care.
A study found that a specific gene change can predict which brain cancer patients respond well to treatment, allowing for personalized therapy. The gene MGMT methylation status was associated with improved overall and progression-free survival in patients treated with radiation and chemotherapy.
A new study suggests that lipofilling is a safe procedure for women with breast cancer, with no significant difference in local recurrence rates between the treatment group and controls. However, longer follow-up and more research are needed to confirm these findings.
New studies released by ASCO highlight advances in cervical cancer screening, ovarian cancer detection, and prostate cancer risk prediction. The studies also explore genetic biomarkers for chemotherapy-induced neuropathy and potential treatments for relapsed ovarian cancer.
A study found that a pelvic MRI scan can identify local recurrence in prostate cancer patients with rising or persistently elevated PSA levels. About one-third of these patients have a low PSA level of less than 1, making it possible to treat them with higher doses and potentially increasing cure rates.
Pediatric cancer patients receive more accurate treatment delivery with proton radiography, reducing radiation exposure compared to standard diagnostic X-rays and cone beam CT. Proton imaging also enables real-time tumor tracking during treatment, benefiting children's sensitive growing bodies.
A new study found that annual mammograms are as effective as interval post-treatment mammograms in detecting breast cancer recurrences. The research suggests eliminating the interval mammogram would save healthcare costs without negatively impacting patient outcomes, decreasing unnecessary biopsies and stress.
The American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) has developed a guideline for palliative thoracic radiation therapy to treat advanced lung cancer. The guideline recommends various regimens of thoracic external beam radiation therapy as effective for symptom palliation, but not endobronchial brachytherapy or concurrent chemotherapy.