The human microbiome plays a significant role in cancer development and treatment, according to six original review articles in this special issue. The articles discuss the impact of probiotics, chemotherapy, and gut microbiota on cancer, as well as the use of microbial DNA sequencing techniques.
A cancer patient with advanced ovarian cancer responded well to treatment with hydroxychloroquine and quinacrine, initially prescribed for an autoimmune disease. The case report suggests that repurposing antimalarial drugs may improve cancer outcomes.
Researchers identified PDE5 inhibitors, like Viagra, as potential treatments for glioblastoma multiforme and other rare cancers. The study suggests these drugs may increase permeability to improve drug delivery to brain tumors.
A new UK study suggests that sticking to healthy New Year's resolutions can lead to a significant reduction in cancer risk. The research found that each additional healthy behavior was associated with an 8% decrease in cancer risk.
Researchers identify barriers to applying international guidelines, citing unique challenges such as younger age at presentation and lack of national breast screening programmes. The need for specific regional guidelines was agreed upon by 90.6% of survey responders.
Researchers discovered that these antimalarial drugs make tumour cells more sensitive to cancer treatment, suggesting potential benefits for certain cancer patients. The findings have sparked excitement among scientists, who are now eagerly awaiting the results of ongoing clinical studies.
A new study published in ecancermedicalscience brings together data from 16 localised registers to present a critical new insight into the impact of paediatric cancer across sub-Saharan Africa. The study highlights important trends, such as high incidence rates of rare blood cancers like Burkitt's Lymphoma in cities like Blantyre, Malawi.
A British exit from the EMA could delay the availability of new medicines to the UK market, according to an independent health economist. The author argues that removal from the EMA would jeopardize access not only to emerging treatments but also cheaper off-brand counterparts once patents expire.
Post-conflict zones face unique tobacco control challenges due to high usage rates and opportunistic industry activity, highlighting the need for strong governance and effective measures like taxation
The editorial warns of significant consequences for cancer care and research in a post-Brexit world. The authors highlight uncertainties regarding research funding, patient data handling, and regulatory frameworks, which could disadvantage UK cancer patients and research if not addressed.
A new study reveals that researchers publishing in high-impact factor journals tend to have distinct profiles, including living in a country with an official English language, dedicating more time to research, and securing funding. Despite this, the majority prefer being leaders rather than financially compensated.
The new Special Issue addresses topics in epidemiology, basic science, and policy, providing reliable information on digestive cancers in Latin America. Key findings include the rising incidence of gastric cancer and the need for awareness, with five articles from experts in the region.
A study by King's College London found that black men face barriers to participating in prostate cancer research, including mistrust of researchers and a preference for traditional medicines. The researchers suggest community-driven engagement and dissemination of reliable information as ways to improve inclusion.
The article explores the economic aspects of cancer care, highlighting the need to assess the value of healthcare innovation. It discusses the rising costs of new treatments and the potential impact on healthcare budgets. The Special Issue provides a review of health economics in cancer research and care.
A recent scandal in Brazil highlights the dangers of unproven compounds being sold to cancer patients. The authors argue that skipping clinical research phases puts patients at risk of false hopes and dangerous treatments. They emphasize the need for evidence-based medicine and the importance of testing novel drug candidates.
Researchers from the Repurposing Drugs in Oncology project found that propranolol has significant anti-cancer properties, particularly in angiosarcoma. The study highlights the potential of propranolol to act on multiple points of the metastatic cascade, reducing metastatic spread and saving lives.
Key findings highlight the need for national palliative care policies in African countries, where many lack such guidelines. The article discusses the evolution of palliative care policy on the continent, raising awareness and promoting education to address these challenges.
A new study published in ecancermedicalscience found that online information about ovarian cancer can cause as much worry as comfort for women at high risk. The researchers suggest that patients should seek guidance from healthcare professionals and credible websites to make informed decisions.
A survey of oncologists and palliative care consultants found that most believe writing condolence letters is important in cancer palliative care. The study suggests that this practice should remain personal and not be standardized.
A new study by Tenovus Cancer Care and the Royal College of Music found that singing in a choir for just 1 hour boosts levels of immune proteins in people affected by cancer. The research also showed significant reductions in stress hormones and increases in cytokines, which can boost the body's ability to fight serious illness.
Researchers from the Repurposing Drugs in Oncology project have found that diclofenac, a common painkiller, has significant anti-cancer properties. The study suggests that existing non-cancer drugs may represent a valuable source of novel therapies for cancer treatment.
The Association for Cancer Physicians has released a new strategy to improve cancer patient services and outcomes in the UK. The comprehensive plan focuses on delivering excellent and safe medical oncology care, contributing to NHS development, and providing innovative approaches to cancer care.
The EurocanPlatform project has led to the establishment of Cancer Core Europe, a long-term initiative between six leading cancer centers aiming to create a single virtual 'e-hospital' with powerful translational platforms. This will provide robust computational biology pipelines and standardized imaging for personalized cancer medicine.
A feasibility study found that women with breast cancer experienced improved feelings of positivity, control, and meaning after tending small indoor 'garden bowls'. The benefits were attributed to the process of nurturing and reflecting on the garden, suggesting a simple ecotherapy-based intervention can have significant impacts.
The latest Special Issue in ecancermedicalscience explores the intersection of biomarkers, screening and prevention using pharmaceutical agents. Researchers discuss validated biomarkers, chemoprevention and its challenges, as well as innovative approaches like circulating free-micro RNAs and circulating tumour DNA.
A 36-year-old woman with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) becomes unintentionally pregnant and seeks a treatment approach that balances cancer remission and healthy delivery. Through her successful experience, doctors and patients gain insight into the complexities of managing CLL during pregnancy.
Researchers highlight key areas for cervical cancer prevention, including elearning programs and HPV infection studies. The Pan American Health Organization reports 36,000 deaths due to cervical cancer in the Americas, mostly in Latin America.
A recent study suggests that nitroglycerin could be repurposed as an anti-cancer treatment by improving tumor oxygenation and delivering anticancer drugs. The medication, traditionally used for chest pain, has excellent potential for patient benefit without significant side effects.
A new study shows that children with cancer can benefit from adapted physical activities, such as dog sledding, which improves their physical and psychological health. The expedition successfully completed by the children demonstrated statistically significant improvement in both areas.
A new special issue in ecancermedicalscience explores the complex relationship between diet, metabolism, and cancer. Researchers investigate the role of antioxidants, obesity, and biomarkers in cancer development and prevention.
A consortium of healthcare professionals, game developers, and oncology educators is developing intelligent 'games' to help cancer patients manage their illness through mobile phones. The iManageCancer project aims to provide psychological benefits, greater wellbeing, quality of life, and social support for young cancer patients.
Rises in unemployment are associated with significant increases in prostate cancer mortality, according to the first study to systematically explore this correlation. The effect continued for at least five years after a 1% rise in unemployment, even after controlling for competing factors.
A rapidly expanding elderly population is projected to face significant challenges accessing high-quality cancer care in Mexico due to diagnostic delays and financial burdens. The country's aging population is anticipated to experience a 75% rise in new cancer cases by 2030.
The ecancermedicalscience Special Issue celebrates the legacy of Dr. Mario Sideri, a pioneer in preventive gynecology. The nine articles cover topics such as screening techniques, HPV vaccine use, and E6/E7 mRNA testing for cervical intraepithelial disease.
A new study published in ecancermedicalscience suggests that turmeric's curcumin can quell the activity of human papillomavirus (HPV) in oral cancer cells, potentially providing a means of future control for the virus-related cancers.
A common anti-fungal drug, itraconazole, has shown potential in treating metastatic prostate cancer and non-small cell lung cancer. The ReDO project is exploring its use in various cancers, offering a more affordable alternative to existing treatments.
The 14th St. Gallen International Breast Cancer Consensus Conference highlighted the need to refine breast cancer classification and predict treatment responses. The conference recommendations will set the standard for breast cancer care for two years, taking into account variable resource limitations worldwide.
A common antibiotic, clarithromycin, has shown potential as an anti-cancer agent when used in combination with other drugs. Low- and middle-income countries may play a key role in developing this treatment, which could lead to improved patient outcomes.
A new Special Issue from ecancermedicalscience tackles fertility-sparing cancer treatments, collecting latest research on preserving fertility in breast, cervical and ovarian cancers. Fertility-sparing treatments balance patient's wishes with oncological outcomes.
A survey of 364 medical journalists found that direct contact with physicians is the most reliable source of information for creating accurate cancer news. Medical journalists also rely on social media and personal connections to support their research, highlighting the need for responsible healthcare reporting.
Researchers developed novel indicators to assess and quantify 'progress' and 'value' in cancer research. The PACE Continuous Innovation Indicators provide a visual representation of progress over time, helping identify gaps and needs.
A recent study published in ecancermedicalscience found that cimetidine, an over-the-counter medication, can increase survival rates in colorectal cancer. The ReDO project aims to repurpose other common medicines for cancer treatment, offering promising alternatives to expensive anti-cancer drugs.
A new review reveals that anti-cancer drugs must obtain regulatory approval, change physician prescription habits and gain patient compliance before being incorporated into daily practice.
A 47-year-old woman with intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma received a uniquely personalized treatment based on her genetic profile, achieving significant tumour shrinkage and symptom improvement. The use of next-generation sequencing revealed a rare BRAF mutation, which was targeted by dabrafenib and trametinib therapies.
Two patients with cardiac lymphoma presented with brain metastasis, highlighting the need for identifying prognostic factors that predict brain relapse. Cardiac lymphoma is a rare condition often overlooked due to its potential for central nervous system metastasis.