A study of 114 patients with primary head and neck cancers found that photodynamic therapy achieved an overall response rate of 91% after two years, with 85% showing complete tumor elimination. The treatment also produced high one- and two-year overall survival rates of 90% and 81%, respectively.
Professor Julian Peto warns that current data protection legislation is hindering cancer research by withholding medical records and tissue samples. Researchers face obstacles in tracking disease development and identifying genetic factors due to lack of access to historical data.
European cancer specialists expect an overview of anti-oestrogen drug trials by 2005, allowing evaluation of long-term effects on breast cancer incidence and mortality. The US FDA has approved tamoxifen for high-risk women, but European experts are cautious due to differing trial results.
The US cancer community must adopt a new paradigm to develop and test cancer treatments, says Dr Edison Liu. The shift in emphasis is needed due to rapid advancements in biological technology, which could lead to significant improvements in prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.
The ECCO organisation urges a streamlined process for new cancer drugs, citing long and cumbersome procedures that hinder patient access. Experts warn of the need for harmonisation between regulatory agencies to avoid duplication and shorten the approval process.
Lymphoedema is a chronic condition resulting from breast cancer surgery and radiotherapy, characterized by swelling, pain, and disability. Early diagnosis and proper treatment can help alleviate symptoms, but increased awareness and education for healthcare professionals are crucial to prevent disastrous consequences.
A novel liposuction treatment has been developed to treat chronic lymphoedema in breast cancer patients, reducing arm swelling by up to 98% and improving mobility and pain levels. The treatment involves removing fatty tissue and accumulated lymph via small incisions along the arm.
Researchers predict personalized breast cancer treatments using genetic profiles, with potential annual reduction of recurrence risks. Up to 100,000 genes in each cell are being studied for predictive value, leading to a future of tailored therapies.
The year 2000 marks a significant turning point in cancer research, driven by advances in genetic knowledge and increased international cooperation. This collaboration enables large-scale trials to be conducted more quickly, leading to potential breakthroughs in cancer prevention and treatment.
Adjuvant treatments with radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and hormone treatment tamoxifen can prevent late recurrences in breast cancer patients. The new findings show a significant decrease in deaths from breast cancer in middle-aged women, with a 30% fall over the past decade in the UK.
A major international trial found that giving extra radiotherapy to patients with early breast cancer substantially reduces the risk of cancer recurring in the breast. The study, involving 5,569 patients from nine countries, showed a significant benefit in younger women, particularly those under 40.
The 2nd European Breast Cancer Conference will bring together over 3000 healthcare professionals, scientists, and patient advocates to share new developments in breast cancer research, treatment, and care. Distinguished international speakers will address key issues about the future of breast cancer research, treatment, and care.