Researchers have developed a new test that can identify patients who may suffer serious late toxicity from radiotherapy. The test uses T-lymphocyte apoptosis to predict the risk of late toxicity and can help stratify patients for more aggressive treatment, resulting in improved cancer control with reduced side effects.
A study by cancer nurse Kerry Guile found that even oncologists and cancer nurses with high knowledge of sun protection were not acting on it. The sample size was 340 people, including medical students and non-oncology nurses, who scored highly on sun protective behavior.
Researchers have made significant progress towards a vaccine for pancreatic cancer, with one patient out of ten remaining disease-free after five years and two others surviving over two years. While the study's findings are promising, caution is advised due to the small sample size and potential biases in the selection process.
A new trial has shown that faster radiotherapy can improve head and neck cancer treatment outcomes, with a 60-70% benefit in tumour control and better voice conservation. The study found that accelerated treatment was linked to high EGFR expression and good tumour differentiation.
Researchers analyzed 99 patient samples and identified patterns of gene activity strongly associated with oestrogen receptor status and tumour grade. These findings may help characterize tumours more effectively and predict patient outcomes, including survival rates and relapse risk.
Researchers have discovered four biochemical markers that can predict a woman's likelihood of developing metastatic disease in node-negative breast cancer. These markers, including p53, E-cadherin, and nm23H1, were found to be significant predictors of outcome, allowing for more accurate identification of patients at risk. This breakth...
A large study of Norwegian and Swedish women found that using oral contraceptives may increase the risk of developing breast cancer, particularly when used later in reproductive life. The risk was highest among women aged 45 or over who were still taking the pill.
Younger women with Hodgkin's Disease are at a higher risk of developing breast cancer after radiotherapy, particularly if they have a family history or underwent splenectomy. Modern treatment methods aim to lower this increased risk.
Researchers have developed new markers capable of detecting minute numbers of cancer cells in blood, using three genes shown to be over-expressed in invasive breast cancer. The markers' sensitivity and specificity are greatly enhanced when used in combination.
A recent study by ECCO-the European CanCer Organisation suggests that a significant proportion of interval breast cancers may be detectable during screening, potentially improving detection rates. The researchers reviewed 723 mammograms and found that 27% of previously undetected cancers could have been detected during screening, corre...
DIPEx, a website offering video, audio, and text interviews with patients, has launched its newest modules on breast cancer and bowel cancer. The site provides a unique resource for patients and healthcare professionals, aiming to improve communication and shared decision-making.
The microendoscopy technique uses a tiny endoscope to detect abnormal cell changes in breast ducts, potentially identifying breast cancer up to a decade before it develops. Researchers have had successes with the procedure and plan to use it as a diagnostic tool for high-risk patients.
Cancer specialists at the European Breast Cancer Conference express concerns about EU regulations on clinical trials, revised Declaration of Helsinki, and animal rights affecting breast cancer research. They urge policymakers to challenge rules that undermine research, citing increased bureaucracy as a major obstacle.
Researchers suggest that biopsying internal mammary sentinel nodes can help doctors detect more accurate spread of breast cancer, leading to better treatment options. The procedure involves a small cut through the breast bone to remove the node, and has been found to be successful in 65% of cases.
Scientists have developed a new compound, TAS-108, which inhibits the growth of tamoxifen-resistant breast tumours. It works by recruiting a co-repressor to help inhibit oestrogen receptors, making it more effective than other anti-oestrogens.
A study of 608 women found that those from deprived areas had a higher incidence of grade three tumours and oestrogen-receptor negative tumours. These factors contribute to poorer outcomes in terms of cancer progression and treatment response.
A pilot study by a consultant surgeon found that breast reconstruction surgery takes longer and results in more complications, out-patient appointments, and additional surgeries. The study showed that mastectomies with breast reconstruction took 7.1 days to complete, compared to 5.6 days for those without reconstruction.
Researchers have made promising strides in combating breast cancer using novel enzyme inhibitors that target key enzymes involved in cell growth and division. These drugs, such as R115777, work by interrupting cellular signals that promote tumor growth, leading to partial responses and disease stabilization in advanced cancer patients.
Researchers have discovered at least 100 genes that show significant differences in activity between non-invasive ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) and invasive breast cancer (IBC). The study's findings suggest that defects in these genes may play a role in the progression from non-invasive to invasive cancer.
A new study has validated data on 73 patients with lymph-node negative breast cancer under 55, predicting disease-free survival with 90% certainty. This could lead to a 30-40% reduction in chemotherapy use for these patients, resolving the dilemma of overtreatment.
A new study found that doctors who received training in communication skills showed significantly more positive attitudes towards psychosocial issues and exhibited patient-centered behavior. The results suggest that a three-day course can make a lasting impact on doctors' communication styles, leading to better patient outcomes.
A new radiotherapy technique delivered during surgery shows promising results in preventing breast cancer recurrence and improving cosmetic outcomes. The 'one stop shop' approach may be more effective and accessible than traditional treatment, especially for women in developing countries.
A touch screen questionnaire found that breast cancer patients experience similar levels of adverse side-effects from chemotherapy, regardless of age. The study also revealed that older women are more susceptible to fatigue, anorexia, weight loss, and mouth ulcers during treatment.
Researchers at University College London have developed a non-invasive method to detect breast cancer spread using white light. The technique involves feeding harmless light pulses through a thin fibre onto the tissue surface, which is then analysed on a portable computer to compare with previous examples of normal and cancerous tissue.
A study found that surgeons rarely offer women a choice between mastectomy and breast-conserving surgery, despite medical appropriateness. Women's perceptions of receiving a choice differ significantly from surgeons' perceptions, with female surgeons focusing on security and male surgeons prioritizing femininity.
Recent improvements in hormonal therapy and understanding of molecular mechanisms indicate that hormone therapy is more effective than chemotherapy in treating early breast cancer. The use of GnRH antagonists and aromatase inhibitors holds promise for treating younger women and post-menopausal patients, respectively.
Researchers found that women who received predictive genetic testing for hereditary breast and ovarian cancer took practical measures, such as regular medical exams, rather than experiencing significant distress. About 10% opted for prophylactic mastectomy, while 37% had already undergone oophorectomy before testing.
Researchers developed an easy and affordable way to screen families for underlying genetic mutations that predispose them to developing breast cancer. The new test can indicate the presence of mutations in breast cancer genes in 50% of cases, potentially even more.
A new booklet aims to improve communication and support between doctors, patients, and partners in cancer care. The booklet was developed with input from patients and healthcare professionals, resulting in a user-friendly document that enhances patient understanding of research and clinical trials.
The International Breast Cancer Intervention Study (IBIS) found that tamoxifen reduced breast cancer incidence by 38% in healthy high-risk women. However, the benefits of tamoxifen for prevention in these women are unclear due to potential side effects and risks.
A recent study demonstrated that including elderly patients in clinical trials for cancer treatments can produce useful results. The research found that two chemotherapy agents were effective and well-tolerated in metastatic breast cancer patients aged 60 or older.
Scientists have developed a test to identify breast abnormalities that are more likely to develop into breast cancer. The test analyzes biological signals in cells and can help doctors determine whether certain women should receive prophylactic anti-oestrogen treatment or more frequent screening.
A new breast cancer vaccine called AutoVac has been developed to stimulate the patient's own immune system and induce specific killer cells and antibodies against HER-2, a protein overexpressed in many tumors. The phase I/II trial is currently underway with 27 patients with advanced breast cancer.
A study found that hormone replacement therapy use is associated with a higher risk of dense breasts and interval cancers. Women who had used HRT were more likely to have dense breasts and cancers detected between screenings.
The European CanCer Organisation's Dr Robin Wilson says current evidence supports breast cancer screening's effectiveness in reducing mortality, but acknowledges drawbacks such as false positives and anxiety for women. Countries with full national screening programmes have seen significant benefits, including improved quality of care.
Prostate cancer screening is a contentious issue due to its potential impact on quality of life and the need for well-informed decision-making. The article highlights the limitations of current research, including the lack of data on risk-benefit analysis and the importance of avoiding unnecessary anxiety and treatment.
Screening for colorectal cancer could lead to a 20% reduction in mortality rates, but its effectiveness depends on various factors. The UK government has set up pilot centres to evaluate the potential of faecal occult blood testing (FOBT) as a screening method.
Patients face increased risk of cancer progression due to inadequate staffing and technical support for advanced radiation therapies like IMRT and SRT. These high-tech treatments require specialized personnel and equipment, which can lead to longer waiting times and higher healthcare costs.
Researchers believe that identifying specific genetic mutations could create more effective genotype profiles to determine individual risk of breast cancer. These profiles may be more accurate than current established clinical risk factors, which only predict but not identify high-risk individuals.
A recent meta-analysis shows a three to sixfold increased risk of non-cardia stomach cancer in H.pylori positive individuals. This suggests that at least half of all non-cardia cancer cases can be attributable to the infection, with potentially much more.
Cancer patients' dietary needs vary according to disease stage, with underweight patients benefiting from fatty foods and those well-recovering advised on traditional healthy diets. The study found that nearly two-thirds of patients changed their eating habits since diagnosis, with most taking nutritional supplements.
The US FDA's priority review process for cancer drugs is significantly faster than its European counterpart, EMEA. In contrast to the EMEA's average approval time of over two years, the FDA approves cancer drugs on average within six months.
The top countries in academic paper production are US, Italy, UK, Japan, and France. The study analyzed papers published between 1995-1999 and found that North America produced more phase I studies while Europe dominated phase III studies. Italy's performance was attributed to its large number of physicians involved in cancer treatment.
A new computer tool forecasts individualized treatment outcomes and risk assessments for patients with breast cancer. The program provides easy-to-read reviews of different treatment options, helping patients make informed decisions about their care.
A new 'double suicide gene' therapy has shown promise in treating prostate cancer by carrying pairs of fused genes directly into cancer cells and inducing self-destruction. The technique achieved "greater levels of targeted cytotoxicity" than single suicide gene therapy, with minimal toxicities reported among patients.
The Chernobyl nuclear disaster has led to a significant increase in thyroid cancer cases, particularly among children and young adults who were exposed to fall-out. The risk of thyroid cancer continues to rise, with the highest rates seen 15-19 years after exposure.
The rate of prostate cancer diagnosis has increased significantly, with only 3-5% of newly diagnosed patients having advanced disease. However, the impact of this shift on mortality rates is uncertain, as PSA screening can lead to over-treatment and unnecessary aggressive treatment.
Researchers successfully used isolated limb perfusion to treat 51 patients, saving 44 limbs and enabling radical resection of residual tumors. Patients maintained over 80% of pre-operative activities post-surgery.
A new approach reduces lymph node removal in breast cancer patients, reducing surgical trauma and complications. The technique uses a radioactive tracer to locate the sentinel node, allowing for targeted biopsy and minimizing false negatives.
A pioneering combination of radiotherapy and chemotherapy has shown promising results in treating common cancers, including cervical, testicular, ovarian, bladder, and small cell lung cancer. Survival rates have increased by up to 18% with combined treatment, outperforming traditional radiotherapy alone.