The Medical College of Georgia has been designated as a Minority-Based Community Clinical Oncology Program by the National Cancer Institute, receiving a five-year $2.3 million grant to expand access to latest cancer treatment and prevention strategies for minority patients.
The ATAC trial confirms anastrozole's superior efficacy over tamoxifen, with increased disease-free survival and reduced cancer recurrence. Long-term benefits of anastrozole treatment persist even after completion.
Cancer Prevention Research is the world's first peer-reviewed scientific journal dedicated exclusively to cancer prevention. The journal will cover various disciplines, including molecular biology, medical oncology, and nutritional science, with an emphasis on linking preclinical and clinical research.
A study found a 150% increase in women choosing contralateral prophylactic mastectomy when cancer is confined to one breast. Despite this, researchers caution that the procedure may not improve overall survival and raise concerns about unnecessary invasive treatment.
Researchers found that simultaneous treatment resulted in a five-year survival rate of 15.1 percent, compared to 10.6 percent with sequential therapy. The study's findings suggest that concurrent chemotherapy and radiation is the new standard of care for locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer.
A prospective study found that quality of life surpasses classic predictors like disease stage and tumor size in determining survival. Patients with better quality of life scores had a significantly higher rate of survival.
An international panel of researchers developed guidelines to prevent and treat venous thromboembolism, a deadly complication of cancer. The new guidelines recommend the use of anticoagulants in hospitalized cancer patients and suggest treating blood clots for at least six months afterwards.
A new integrated approach to intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) has been shown to provide high-quality care for head and neck cancer patients in community centers. The study found no significant differences in treatment outcomes or survival rates between academic and community centers.
Researchers found that high BRCA1 expression in non-small cell lung cancer patients is associated with poor survival and increased risk of death. Patients with high BRCA1 levels may benefit from taxane-based chemotherapy, while those with low levels may not respond to cisplatin-based treatments.
Recent political decisions in Europe have had a major negative impact on cancer treatment, according to Professor John Smyth. The new European CanCer Organisation (ECCO) aims to address these issues and promote the interests of cancer patients, researchers, and policymakers.
A new study suggests that finasteride, a generic drug for enlarged prostates, improves early detection of fast-growing prostate cancers. Finasteride reduces prostate size and cancer risk by 25 percent, making it easier for physicians to detect high-grade tumors early.
A leading epidemiologist attacks a Swedish research report on cancer drug access, citing flawed methods, incorrect conclusions, and potential industry influence. The Karolinska report aimed to link national cancer survival rates with access to cancer drugs, but its methodology has been disputed.
Researchers identified an unusually high rate of severe allergic reactions to cetuximab among patients living in the middle South, with a 22% rate compared to 2% nationwide. The strongest predictor of a reaction was a history of other hypersensitivities.
A new study reveals that more than half of parents with a BRCA mutation share their genetic test results with children under 25. Many children experience initial negative reactions and struggle to understand the significance of this information. Further research is needed to address the emotional impact on these families.
A study led by Duke University researchers found that a white blood cell booster can significantly reduce the risk of chemotherapy-related complications characterized by fever and low white blood cell levels. The study, published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology, involved over 3,000 patients and showed that patients taking the drug ...
A study published in The Lancet Oncology found that parents' intellectual and emotional awareness time of their child's impending death is strongly associated with future health outcomes. Healthcare providers can play a crucial role in reducing long-term depression, employment issues, and psychological problems by providing adequate in...
A recent study published in The Lancet Oncology found that children with intracranial ependymoma can avoid the damaging effects of radiotherapy by receiving chemotherapy treatment instead. In a study of 89 children, 42% avoided radiotherapy and had better overall survival rates.
A large study of over 17,000 men found that finasteride caused a small decrease in sexual function, but this effect diminished over time. The researchers concluded that finasteride is unlikely to cause significant sexual dysfunction for most men taking the drug.
Randal S. Weber, a renowned otolaryngologist and head and neck surgeon, has been chosen as an Honorary Member of the American Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology (ASTRO). Dr. Weber's contributions to promoting multidisciplinary approaches in treating patients with head and neck cancers have earned him this prestigious honor.
The American Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology has recognized 40 distinguished members as its 2007 ASTRO Fellows. The nominees have made significant contributions to the field of radiation oncology through research, patient care, education, or leadership.
Pawel Walewski, a health editor with Poland's biggest selling weekly magazine Polityka, has been awarded the European School of Oncology's Best Cancer Reporter Award for 2007. The award recognizes his outstanding cancer reporting and aims to promote better quality media coverage of cancer.
Cancer is a major cause of disease and mortality worldwide, requiring a strong political signal for alliance and concerted actions. The Round Table on Health Strategies in the European Union will focus on creating capacity building for effective policies and programs to address cancer.
A study of 132 rare ovarian cancer survivors found that most retained menstrual function and reproductive ability after treatment. Despite reproductive concerns, survivors were more likely to be in meaningful, positive relationships than healthy counterparts.
Scientists, oncologists, and critics explore the use of ESAs, which can boost oxygen-carrying red blood cells and improve quality of life, but may be overprescribed due to cost and drug company influence. The debate highlights the need for fair and balanced review of data to ensure patients' needs are met.
A survey of 401 oncology registrars found that 102 experienced psychiatric morbidity, with depression being a major concern. The study suggests that better support and supervision can alleviate stress and improve performance.
Researchers found a widening disparity in life expectancy between white and black women with advanced breast cancer, with median survival rates differing by up to 8.8% over the last two decades. Socio-economic factors, such as access to healthcare and treatment options, are suspected to be contributing factors.
A new study published by Duke University Comprehensive Cancer Center found that patients with chronic illnesses like diabetes or heart disease are no more likely to receive an early cancer diagnosis due to frequent healthcare interactions. Screening is still crucial regardless of medical management.
A study reveals that genetic differences in Japanese and US patients with non-small cell lung cancer affect how well they respond to chemotherapy drugs like paclitaxel and carboplatin. The research found that specific gene variations, such as CYP3A4 and ERCC2, influence treatment outcomes.
The partnership aims to create programs and provide grants that support tangible improvements in access to and delivery of cancer care, particularly for disparities and clinical trials. The initiative also focuses on solutions to the projected shortfalls of the oncology workforce and addresses the unique needs of cancer survivors.
Dr. Gianni Bonadonna's innovative adjuvant treatment of breast cancer using CMF chemotherapy significantly reduced disease recurrence and death over 30 years. The new Gianni Bonadonna Breast Cancer Award and Fellowship supports emerging researchers in breast cancer, honoring his legacy and impact on the field.
Lilly Oncology will present data on three oncology agents, ALIMTA, GEMZAR, and enzastaurin, at the 43rd Annual Meeting of the American Society of Clinical Oncology. The company's studies focus on various types of cancer, including non-small cell lung cancer and breast cancer.
A new study found that only 9% of breast cancer specialists adhere to guidelines for follow-up care, with varying frequencies of mammograms and discharge times. The research highlights the need for improved coordination between specialists and general practitioners to provide better patient care.
A report by European Society for Medical Oncology reveals stark inequalities in access to cancer treatment globally. Key findings include that Austria, France, and the US have high uptake of new cancer drugs, while countries like New Zealand, Poland, and South Africa have low uptake.
Researchers found that high dose radiotherapy (74 Gy) improved cancer control and reduced the need for additional hormone treatment compared to standard radiotherapy (64 Gy). The new conformal radiotherapy method minimized bowel side effects.
A new study found that androgen deprivation therapy for prostate cancer may increase the risk of death from heart disease in patients over age 65. After adjusting for other cardiovascular risk factors, researchers found a significant link between ADT use and cardiac-related deaths among older men.
Researchers have developed a new genomic microarray test that accurately identifies the ER and HER-2 status of breast tumors, which can inform personalized treatment planning. The test showed 90% accuracy for both receptors, comparable to existing pathology tests.
A new report by the European Society for Medical Oncology warns that Europe's aging population is driving a major increase in cancer cases and deaths. The report estimates that there were 3.2 million new cancer cases diagnosed in 2006, with lung cancer remaining the leading cause of death.
Researchers developed a new screening process using chemiluminescent light and toluidine blue dye to improve diagnosis accuracy for early-stage oral cancer. The study found that this approach can reduce unnecessary biopsies and false negatives, leading to better patient outcomes.
A study presented at a symposium found that 80% of advanced head and neck cancer patients responded well to chemotherapy and radiation, eliminating detectable disease in the neck. Of these, 85% maintained long-term remission without needing further invasive surgery.
A new study found that adding Cetuximab to radiation therapy does not increase the rate or duration of mucositis or dysphagia in head and neck cancer patients. The median follow-up time was 54 months, with fewer than 10% experiencing prolonged toxicities.
Researchers found that adding cetuximab to radiation therapy and chemotherapy improved local regional control and overall survival in patients with locally advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck. Seventy-two percent achieved a complete response two months after completion of therapy, while 95 percent were disease-free.
Obese and less educated women with breast cancer are more likely to receive reduced chemotherapy doses, threatening their survival. Research shows that doctors often reduce doses for these patients without solid medical basis, highlighting treatment disparities in cancer care.
A recent study identified common flaws in oncology microarray studies, including inadequate methods to account for false-positive findings. Researchers provide guidelines to improve the quality of analysis and reporting of such studies, aiming to validate scientific findings through replication.
Teens with cancer face poor survival rates due to limited clinical trial participation, lack of awareness about their risk, and delayed diagnoses. The 15-29 age group has seen no improvement in survival rates over the past 25 years.
Avastin, an anti-angiogenic therapeutic, improves lung cancer patient survival by 20% and reduces side effects compared to conventional chemotherapy. The drug targets tumor blood vessels, enabling chemotherapy drugs to diffuse into the tumor more effectively.
A study published in the Society of Integrative Oncology's Third International Conference found that antioxidant therapies do not hinder the effectiveness of radiation therapy for prostate cancer. The study, conducted by Cancer Treatment Centers of America, reviewed PSA levels of prostate cancer patients after receiving radiation thera...
A large study of over 7,500 men with prostate cancer treated with radiation therapy found that temporary PSA bounces do not increase the risk of cancer recurrence. Researchers believe this reduces stress and uncertainty for patients experiencing a PSA bounce after radiation.
Researchers found a correlation between high COX-2 intensity scores and increased risk of biochemical failure and distant metastasis. The study suggests that inhibiting COX-2 expression may make prostate cancer more responsive to radiation therapy.
A University of Pittsburgh study demonstrates that intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) can be uniformly delivered in a large health care system through centralized planning and treatment. This approach enables patients to receive consistent quality of care despite geographic distances.
A new cost-benefit analysis suggests that the most expensive combination cancer treatment may actually be the most cost-effective in the long run. The study found that patients who received induction chemotherapy and radiation therapy had better outcomes and saved money on treating complications and recurrences.
The study found that men with aggressive locally advanced prostate cancer who received additional hormones lived longer, with a 31.9% increase in survival compared to those without further hormone therapy. The benefits also extended to men with less aggressive cancers, with improved disease-free and disease-specific survival rates.
A consensus statement published in Annals of Surgical Oncology calls for heated chemotherapy after colon cancer surgery to optimize patient survival. The treatment, known as HIPEC, has shown promising results with a median survival of greater than 20 months compared to six-month survival with traditional intravenous chemotherapy.
The use of videoconferencing in a twinning program between Jordan and Canada improved patient care, compliance, and trust. The program showed positive impacts on treatment changes, second opinions, and introduction of new concepts in pediatric oncology.
The University of Liverpool, Royal Liverpool University Hospital and Clatterbridge Centre for Oncology are merging to create a cancer research centre, enabling global clinical trials of new therapies. The centre will be funded by Cancer Research UK and will double the number of patients in early phase clinical trials.
The American Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology has awarded $240,000 in grants to four young cancer researchers. The recipients, Andy J. Minn, Roberto Diaz, Max Diehn, and Aaron C. Spalding, will use the funding to conduct research in radiation oncology, biology, physics, or outcomes research.
A new treatment combining high-dose radiotherapy after surgery and short-term intense chemotherapy improves the overall five-year survival rate of children with medulloblastoma to 85% for average-risk patients. High-risk patients see a significant increase in survival rates, from 55% to 70%, while reducing side effects.
Three cancer researchers, Asif R. Harsolia, Sandeep S. Hunjan, and Ping Zhang, have won the ASTRO Poster Recognition Award for their exceptional contributions to radiation oncology. Their work demonstrated top-notch science presented at ASTRO's Annual Meeting.
A study of children and young adults treated with doxorubicin for bone tumors found progressive worsening of heart damage, with nearly half showing diastolic dysfunction. Regular echocardiography is recommended to monitor heart function and prevent further deterioration.
Researchers found that missing portions of chromosomes can predict which patients will likely do better with therapy. Patients with tumors having deletions in chromosome locations 1p and 19q tended to live nearly two and a half times longer than those without such deletions.
The Vera Bradley Foundation has donated $6.8M to the IU Breast Cancer Research Program, supporting groundbreaking research and improving treatment outcomes for patients. The gift is the foundation's 13th major donation to IU School of Medicine and marks a continued commitment to finding a cure for breast cancer.