A commonly used drug, ACE inhibitor, can limit radiation damage to the lungs and heart in cancer patients. The study found that this treatment improved the heart's function and decreased fibrosis in the heart after irradiation.
Recent studies have shown that image-guided brachytherapy can deliver high doses of radiotherapy to tumours while sparing surrounding organs, leading to effective treatment with fewer side-effects. The studies also found a clear dose response relationship between radiation dose and vaginal morbidity.
Researchers found that sparing the contralateral submandibular gland reduced symptoms of dry mouth in patients with head and neck cancers. The study suggests a recommended maximum dose of 40 Gy for the gland, leading to improved patient outcomes.
New research shows that mathematical prediction models, not doctors, are better at predicting the outcomes and responses of lung cancer patients to treatment. The models use information from previous patients to create a statistical formula that can be used to predict patient survival and response to treatment.
A randomized trial found that highly targeted irradiation had equally good results as whole breast radiotherapy in early stage cancer, with a lower risk of adverse effects. The treatment reduced the rate of local recurrence by 0.8% and improved cosmetic outcomes by 18%, making it a potential game-changer for breast cancer patients.
Researchers found that almost half of patients with head and neck cancers had other health-related problems at the same time, affecting survival rates and quality of life. The analysis emphasizes the importance of taking a multidisciplinary approach to cancer in the elderly, considering co-morbidities when deciding on treatment.
A new technique called Deep Inspiration Breath Hold (DIBH) helps deliver the correct dose to the right place, sparing healthy tissue. The study found that treating patients during DIBH reduced the heart mean dose by 68% and lung radiation by 20-30%, offering a clinical benefit for breast cancer patients.
A study of 163 patients with cervical cancer found that 3D image-guided adaptive brachytherapy (IGABT) achieved high rates of tumor control and low side effects, making hysterectomies unnecessary for most women. The technique was effective in controlling the return and spread of the disease, and overall survival was 84% after three years.
Patients with HPV-positive throat cancer have significantly better control of the tumour, disease-specific survival, and overall survival when treated with radiotherapy alone compared to HPV-negative patients. HPV-positive light or non-smokers have even more favourable outcomes.
A randomized trial found that the ARCON regime improves control of cancer at its primary site, disease-free survival, and metastasis-free survival in patients with low Hb levels. However, overall survival remains compromised due to other health problems.
Researchers discovered that the stem cells essential for regenerating the parotid gland are mainly located in its major ducts, which can be easily avoided during radiotherapy. This technique could reduce complications and improve quality of life for head and neck cancer patients suffering from dry mouth syndrome.