Researchers found that patients with glioblastoma multiforme treated with radiation and chemotherapy drug temozolomide can live up to four years after diagnosis, compared to three percent of those who received only radiation. The treatment has become the standard for GBM patients worldwide.
A retrospective study found that patients taking statin drugs alongside high-dose radiation therapy had a 10% higher chance of being cured of prostate cancer at 10 years after diagnosis. The study also showed reduced rates of cancer spreading to distant parts of the body in men who took statins during radiation treatment.
Prostate cancer patients undergoing hormone therapy who walked five times a week maintained or gained bone density, while those who didn't exercise lost more than two percent of their bone density. A nurse-directed home-based walking program improved physical function and managed symptoms during radiation and hormone treatment.
Demand for Spanish-language cancer web materials has quadrupled, with OncoLink en español seeing a significant increase in unique visitors. However, limited internet access and different search patterns among Spanish-speaking users highlight the need for tailored content to meet their needs.
A study found that nearly two-thirds of low-income and minority cancer patients accepted patient navigator assistance to reduce barriers to care. LPNs helped patients access clinical trials, resulting in faster timeframes for reducing barriers to treatment.
A study found that nearly a quarter of cancer patients receiving radiation therapy are not getting vaccinated against flu and pneumonia, posing a significant risk to their health. Oncologists can play a key role in informing patients about recommended vaccines during regular interactions.
Stefanie LaRue, a 30-year-old LA resident, was diagnosed with Stage-4 Advanced/Metastatic Breast Cancer in 2005. She has since devoted her time to educating men and women about diagnosing breast cancer and preventing misdiagnoses in young women under 40.
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.
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.
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.
A recent study found that Hodgkin's lymphoma survivors who undergo lipid screening every five years live six months longer than those without screening. The study suggests that regular cholesterol screening is a cost-effective procedure to reduce the risk of heart disease in these patients.
A new radiation technique called intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) significantly reduces painful skin burns in women with breast cancer. IMRT controls the intensity of each beam to spare nearby healthy tissue, minimizing radiation exposure and side effects.
Researchers developed a formula that takes into account various risk factors, including age, cancer size and grade, and treatment options. The new computer tool helps doctors evaluate the potential benefit of additional radiation therapy for patients with early stage breast cancer.
A randomized study found that intravenous chemoradiation was as effective as intra-arterial treatment for patients with inoperable head and neck cancer. The study compared the two treatments in 240 patients, both of which were able to control cancer growth.
A study found that radiation after surgery and chemotherapy improves overall survival in non-small cell lung cancer patients with lymph node involvement. Patients who received radiation lived almost two years longer than those without radiation.
A study found that patients base their treatment choice on cultural and personal prejudices, with false beliefs about radiation's impact being a major concern. Patients were also anxious about the terminology used in radiation therapy, evoking feelings more related to war than a cure.
A study found that longer-term hormone therapy does not extend survival for high-risk prostate cancer patients. Instead, it may lead to a lesser degree of treatment side effects and improved quality of life.
Rita Davis-Goldsberry, a breast cancer survivor, received the Survivor Circle Award for her advocacy work with uninsured patients. Barbara Knight-Meyers, Ph.D., was recognized as a Distinguished Honoree for her volunteer work at Insight Seminars. Both women have given back to their community after receiving treatment for cancer.
A study found that Tadalafil (Cialis) significantly improved erectile dysfunction in prostate cancer patients who underwent 3D-CRT. Successful intercourse rates were 48% for those taking Tadalafil, compared to 9% for placebo group.
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.
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 1,492 men found that annual PSA testing reduced the risk of dying from prostate cancer by 3.6%, while increasing the chances of diagnosis with curable cancers. The test measures levels of prostate-specific antigen, a protein produced by the prostate.
Researchers studied 1,131 patients with early-stage Hodgkin's lymphoma and found that reducing the radiation dose from 30 Gy to 20 Gy significantly improved patient outcomes. Over 98% of patients experienced complete remission, while side effects were reduced.
Combining chemotherapy with radiation therapy before surgery improves local tumor control and reduces cancer return rates. The study, published by the American Society for Radiation Oncology, suggests this treatment should be recommended for most rectal cancer patients.
A new one-week radiation treatment for breast cancer patients has shown promising results, with no patient recurrence after 48 months and 80% of women experiencing good-to-excellent cosmetic outcomes. The treatment uses MammoSite brachytherapy to deliver high doses of radiation to the surrounding tumor area.
A study conducted between 1988 and 1995 found that radiation therapy significantly improved five- and 10-year prostate cancer-free survival rates. The treatment reduced the risk of recurrence, cancer spread, and overall mortality in patients with advanced stage prostate cancer.
For patients with early-stage breast cancer, MRI improves treatment selection by identifying additional cancer in the breast that may require wider removal of tissue or mastectomy. Breast MRI can help radiation oncologists identify suitable candidates for accelerated partial breast irradiation.
A study of 869 women found that radiation therapy after surgery reduced breast cancer recurrence by almost 100%, with an overall survival rate of 97%. Radiation therapy also did not impact patients' quality of life or long-term survival rates.
Researchers at the Mayo Clinic found that breast conservation surgery followed by radiation therapy can lead to favorable cosmetic results in patients with implanted breasts. The study challenged previous reports of poor outcomes.
A study of 487 cancer patients found that almost twice as many used CAM therapies when treated with chemotherapy alone compared to radiation therapy. Patients reported high satisfaction with using cost-effective CAM methods like supplements, but few relied on their doctors for information on these treatments.
Researchers developed a new radiation technique that targets cancer while sparing hair follicles, resulting in minimal hair loss. The study used intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) on 10 patients with stage IV brain cancer, showing promising results and improved overall survival rates.
Mr. Anduri, a 30-year lymphoma survivor, is being recognized for his dedication to helping others in the local community through volunteer work with CanSurmount and the National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship. The award highlights his generous spirit and good coming out of his cancer experience.
The new ASTRO/ASRT grant program aims to establish new radiation therapy programs, addressing significant shortages in the field. Currently, there are only 71 accredited educational programs in the US, down from 125 a decade ago, and 13 states have no radiation therapy program.