The NRG Oncology trial found that trastuzumab did not negatively affect cardiac function in patients with node-positive, HER2-positive breast cancer who survived without cancer recurrence. Both groups maintained good cardiac function at a median of 8.8 years after treatment.
The ESMO Position Paper emphasizes the need for patient-centered care in cancer treatment, addressing physical, psychological, social, and spiritual needs. It calls for increased awareness, research, education, and resources for supportive and palliative care.
The combination of chemotherapy and immunotherapy significantly improves progression-free survival in patients with advanced non-squamous NSCLC. The study showed that the addition of atezolizumab to bevacizumab and chemotherapy leads to a median PFS of 8.3 months, compared to 6.8 months with bevacizumab and chemotherapy alone.
This special focus issue of Future Oncology explores current and future image-guided interventions in oncology, including techniques such as fluorescence and optical imaging. The issue aims to provide a platform for researchers and clinicians to discuss recent advances in radiotherapy and personalized treatment approaches.
The ESMO International Consortium Study found dramatic disparities in access to anti-cancer medications, even among essential medicines recommended by the World Health Organization. In Lower Middle- and Low-Income countries, many essential medications are available only at full cost, limiting accessibility.
The Lancet Oncology Commission recommends prioritizing key areas for US$2 billion funding to advance cancer research and treatment, focusing on prevention, targeted interventions, and patient-centered data sharing. The report aims to improve cancer care for underserved groups and reduce health disparities.
Prof Laurence Zitvogel has been awarded the first ESMO Award for Immuno-Oncology for her pioneering work in advancing cancer immunology and immunotherapy. Her research focuses on understanding the gut microbiome's role in cancer immunosurveillance, with implications for predicting response to immunomodulators.
A survey of breast cancer clinic patients found that short- and long-term side effects were often better than anticipated, with 83% and 84% of respondents reporting similar expectations. Women reported lower fears and more positive experiences after treatment, highlighting the need to address misconceptions about radiation therapy.
A phase III trial has confirmed the effectiveness of pelvic radiation as a standard treatment for high-risk stage I-II endometrial cancer. The study found that adjuvant pelvic radiation provided better pelvic control and fewer severe side effects compared to a brachytherapy-chemotherapy combination.
The American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) has awarded $275,000 in research grants to four early-career scientists to investigate the effects of radiation on breast cancer cells and tumor immune evasion. The awardees aim to develop innovative treatments that improve patient outcomes by modulating the immune response.
At ESMO 2017, researchers presented 55 late-breaking abstracts and 1,736 selected abstracts, featuring breakthrough treatments for various cancers. The Congress emphasized the importance of preventing cancer through lifestyle changes and explored sustainable treatment options.
The Triggers tool identifies patients who benefit from early palliative care, improving their prognosis and quality of life. In a pilot study, the tool was successfully implemented at The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, with 75% of patients showing positive triggers for specialist palliative care.
A nationwide study in Ireland found that most oncology patients consider clinical trials important but struggle with central concepts like chance and randomization. The study aimed to understand factors influencing patients' decisions about participating in clinical trials.
The 'Triggers' tool evaluates cancer patients' palliative care needs at an earlier stage, enabling early referrals and potentially improving prognosis. A pilot study showed that 75% of patients who triggered positive on the tool items had a moderate need for specialist palliative care.
The ESMO-MCBS version 1.1 is the first major revision, introducing a new scale for single-arm studies in orphan diseases and for diseases with high unmet need. This updated tool will enable users to evaluate single-arm studies, previously only applicable to comparative studies.
ASTRO has recognized 43 researchers and clinical teams for their top-rated research abstracts, showcasing innovative science in radiation oncology. The Resident Clinical/Basic Science Research Abstract Award and Annual Meeting Travel Award also support early-career scientists, with a total of $45,000 in honorariums awarded.
Many young cancer patients are not receiving adequate fertility information and support, according to a new Psycho-Oncology review of published literature. The analysis found that clinicians' lack of knowledge and unclear roles hinder the provision of fertility preservation services.
Researchers have developed and validated a nomogram that can predict overall survival and progression-free survival for patients with oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma treated with radiation-based therapy. The nomograms were derived from clinical trials NRG Oncology/RTOG 0129 and 0522.
A collection of articles on hereditary cancer syndromes, including Li-Fraumeni and Lynch syndromes, has been published in JAMA Oncology. The studies focus on the effectiveness of intensive cancer surveillance programs for individuals with these rare syndromes.
The American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) has selected 23 distinguished members to receive the ASTRO Fellow designation. These individuals have made significant contributions to the field of radiation oncology in research, education, patient care, or service and leadership.
ASTRO honors Edith Peterson Mitchell, MD, a leading researcher and medical oncologist, for her work on chemoradiation treatments. Her research has helped raise the profile of radiation oncology by providing clinical evidence for combined modality treatment.
The NRG-RTOG 0436 trial found that adding an epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitor to a chemo-radiation regimen does not improve overall survival for patients with locally advanced esophageal cancer. The trial showed no significant benefit from the addition of EGFR inhibitor cetuximab to standard treatment.
A new study from the University of Pennsylvania challenges common advice given to breast cancer patients, suggesting that antiperspirants can be used safely during radiotherapy. The study found no significant difference in radiation skin dose absorbed by patients with or without antiperspirants.
The European Society for Medical Oncology has announced the recipients of its four distinguished annual awards. Miguel Martin is recognized for his work in breast cancer research, while José Baselga receives the Lifetime Achievement Award for pivotal contributions to drug development. Alberto Bardelli wins the Translational Research Aw...
Søren M. Bentzen and Louis B. Harrison have made significant contributions in clinical patient care, research, teaching, and service to the profession. Dr. Bentzen focuses on personalized medicine using big data to tailor treatments, while Dr. Harrison is a renaissance man of radiation oncology with varied accomplishments.
Annals of Oncology has achieved an impressive Impact Factor score of 11.855, ranking it among the top 5% of oncology titles globally. The journal is recognized for its rapid and efficient peer-review publications on cutting-edge cancer research.
The IASLC published a comprehensive summary of the year's key developments in thoracic oncology, covering prevention, early detection, pathology, staging, surgery, adjuvant therapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy. The publication highlights significant progress in small cell lung cancer and malignant mesothelioma.
A study published in Journal of Clinical Oncology found that patients undergoing androgen deprivation therapy experience significant changes in physical function and skills of daily living. After treatment, most patients show improvement in overall geriatric health, with some even experiencing increases in daily function.
The European Society for Radiotherapy and Oncology (ESTRO) has launched the Global Impact of Radiation in Oncology (GIRO) partnership to improve radiotherapy access worldwide. The project aims to save one million lives by 2035 by addressing barriers to provision and raising awareness among healthcare professionals and patients.
Rafal Dziadziuszko, a global leader in clinical thoracic oncology, has been awarded the Heine H. Hansen (HHH) Award by ESMO and IASLC for his lifetime contributions to lung cancer research and education globally.
The American Society of Clinical Oncology will host its 53rd Annual Meeting, featuring more than 2,150 abstracts on various cancer topics. The meeting highlights recent breakthroughs in immunotherapy and precision medicine, with a focus on improving patient care and outcomes.
A new standard of care has been established worldwide for treating prostate cancer, reducing treatment duration to four weeks without compromising outcomes. The trial found that this compressed regimen resulted in slightly fewer side effects and improved quality of life for participants.
Researchers from the University of Surrey found that cancer patients prioritize palliative and end-of-life care, while nurses focus on eHealth and technology to manage symptoms at home. Both parties agree on factors affecting early cancer symptom presentation and psychosocial support services.
The updated clinical guideline from the American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) underscores the safety and effectiveness of palliative radiation therapy (RT) for treating painful bone metastases. The guideline recommends optimal RT dosing schedules, including options for re-treatment, to provide pain relief, with a single 8-Gy ...
A study by the NRG Oncology Radiation Therapy Oncology Group found that adding antiandrogen therapy to radiation therapy can reduce the incidence of metastasis, death from prostate cancer, and overall deaths in patients with recurrent prostate cancer. The study showed a significant improvement in survival rates for patients treated wit...
The EurOPDX consortium develops patient-derived xenografts to replicate tumor behavior in mice, enabling personalized medicine and drug assessment. Researchers aim to validate multicentric preclinical studies using these models, increasing the efficiency of cancer research and treatment.
The European Society for Medical Oncology advocates for strict adherence to approval standards and accelerated introduction of biosimilars into clinical settings. This move aims to enhance the sustainability and affordability of cancer treatment, with potential benefits including reduced costs and increased accessibility.
A pilot study found yoga interventions improved health-related QOL for children with cancer and their families, including social and emotional well-being. Certified yoga instructors delivered the program in various settings, tailored to the children's physical condition or mobility issues.
The new special issue of Future Oncology explores the field of psycho-oncology, which aims to integrate biomedical and psychosocial aspects of cancer care. The issue highlights the importance of developing a multi-disciplinary approach to cancer care, from both social and biomedical standpoints.
Patients with longer delays were more likely to receive palliative treatment, while early diagnosis and treatment improve cancer outcomes. The study found that patients and primary care physicians contributed significant delays, highlighting the need for increased patient awareness about symptoms and screening.
Research finds generic cancer drugs are generally safe in countries with robust regulatory programs, but safety is uncertain in those with weaker oversight. In the US, economic studies show price savings from generics are limited by high review costs and lack of competition.
A special issue of Future Oncology examines the latest breakthroughs in prostate cancer imaging, including multiparametric MRI and PET imaging. The issue aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the field's current state and future directions.
Two researchers will receive funding to explore the use of smartphone-connected technology and wearables to predict radiation toxicity in lung cancer patients. A randomized trial will investigate whether a simple walking program can reduce treatment interruptions and improve outcomes among cancer patients undergoing concurrent chemothe...
A study by NRG Oncology found that stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) is safe and effective for medically inoperable patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), particularly when using higher dose levels. The trial demonstrated comparable local control and outcomes data to SBRT results in peripherally located early stage ...
A pooled analysis of NRG Oncology studies RTOG 0129 and 0522 found that IMRT significantly reduced xerostomia and feeding tube dependency in head and neck cancer patients, especially those with oropharyngeal cancer. However, IMRT was associated with increased acute mucositis and dysphagia.
A Phase III randomized trial comparing intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) to standard RT found that patients treated with IMRT had better bowel and bladder functions scores and required fewer anti-diarrheal medications. Quality of life measures also showed less decline for patients treated with IMRT.
NRG-RTOG 0232 study found no significant difference in 5-year progression-free survival between external beam radiation therapy plus brachytherapy and brachytherapy alone. The treatment combination also resulted in fewer late genitourinary effects, mostly noted in the brachytherapy only arm.
Researchers found IDH gene mutations to be independently prognostic of overall and progression-free survival in grade II and III gliomas. CIC mutations also showed promise as prognostic markers, although more research is needed to confirm their effectiveness.
A randomized clinical trial found that early palliative care significantly increases a patient's ability to cope with their diagnosis and overall quality of life. Patients who received early palliative care were more likely to use adaptive coping strategies and report higher quality of life compared to those receiving standard care alone.
The European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) has awarded four distinguished recipients for their outstanding contributions to cancer treatment and research. Alberto Sobrero received the ESMO Award for his world-renowned research on gastrointestinal cancer, while Sir Richard Peto was recognized for his important contributions to bre...
Sumitra Thongprasert has been awarded the second ESMO Women for Oncology award for her role as a role model for women in oncology. The award acknowledges her advocacy across Asia for female participation in the oncology workforce and promotion of women in leadership positions.
A group of researchers calls for an overhaul of the US process for reviewing coverage of 'off-label' cancer drug use. They found inconsistencies in the five reference guides used to determine reimbursement and weak quality evidence supporting some off-label uses.
The new guideline establishes a two millimeter margin as the standard for adequate margins in DCIS treated with whole breast radiation therapy, potentially reducing re-excision rates and improving cosmetic outcomes. This recommendation is supported by evidence and aims to improve quality of care and patient outcomes.
The American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) has selected four early career scientists to receive research awards totaling $275,000. The grants support work in radiation and cancer biology, physics, and translational research.
The American Society for Radiation Oncology has updated its treatment standard for rectal cancer, recommending a more customized approach that may reduce treatment side effects. The new guideline suggests alternatives to the traditional tri-modal approach, including short-course radiation therapy and non-operative management.
A recent special issue of Future Oncology examines the field of oncofertility, highlighting its importance in cancer survivors' well-being. The focus on preserving fertility in cancer patients has revolutionized reproductive medicine and biology, with direct impact on oncology.
The article introduces a new 'game plan' for oncologists to incorporate new therapies and approaches into clinical guidelines quickly. CancerLinQ, a web-based rapid-learning system, will provide point-of-care clinical decision support with the latest evidence-based recommendations.
A study published in Journal of Clinical Oncology reveals that short remission telomere length is associated with delayed blood count recovery in children with Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) after chemotherapy. The research aims to identify high-risk children and develop targeted treatments to prevent complications.
Benedick A. Fraass, Christopher G. Willett, and Anthony L. Zietman have been named recipients of the American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) Gold Medal for their outstanding contributions to radiation oncology. They were recognized for their achievements in clinical patient care, research, teaching, and service to the profession.
A study published in JAMA Oncology shows that intrinsic molecular subtyping of breast cancer can predict patient outcomes and guide treatment decisions. The research found that the genomic classification of tumors is a key prognostic factor, outperforming traditional variables such as age and number of metastases.