Research on new and better ways to treat cancer. Covers radiotherapy, targeted microdroplets, nerve-injury protection, drug combinations, and tumor models.
Liver cancer experts say following international guidelines is costing lives in Peru due to a lack of tailored treatment. The study suggests that using local knowledge and data can lead to better management of the disease in developing countries.
Research published in Journal of Thoracic Oncology found that non-small cell lung cancer patients with early-stage tumors had a higher rate of nodal upstaging and longer hospital stays when undergoing open chest surgery compared to video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS). This study suggests that VATS may not be equivalent to open surge...
A novel PET/CT imaging method has been shown to accurately measure HER2 expression in metastatic breast cancer, potentially leading to more optimal individualized treatments. This non-invasive technique may one day substitute traditional tissue sampling.
Clinical research experts discuss various topics, including the impact of personalized genomic data on healthcare systems, strategies to combat multidrug-resistant tuberculosis, and population approaches to reduce diabetes incidence. They also highlight the need for improved cancer diagnosis and treatment for neurodegenerative diseases.
A study published in JAMA found that nearly half of working individuals with stage III colorectal cancer lost their jobs due to their diagnosis. However, those with access to paid sick leave were more likely to retain their jobs and experience reduced personal financial burdens. The study highlights the importance of providing paid sic...
Even before the Affordable Care Act (ACA), cancer survivors in non-expansion states had limited access to healthcare. The study analyzed data from the 2012 and 2013 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System and found that these survivors were less likely to have a personal doctor, receive an annual checkup, or see a doctor due to cost.
A new analysis found that nearly 60% of metastatic cancer patients experience some change in employment due to illness. Controlling symptoms is key for many patients to remain employed, with better performance status and non-Hispanic White ethnicity/race being associated with continued work.
A new method allows researchers to create 3D images of oxygen and CO2 transport in the lungs, providing hope for improved treatment of COPD and lung cancer. The technique enables doctors to better predict patient outcomes and develop personalized treatments.
A study found that patients younger than 50 diagnosed with non-small-cell lung cancer have a higher likelihood of having a targetable genomic alteration for which therapies exist. However, they also have an unexpectedly poor prognosis, with median survival rates ranging from 13.6 months for those over 70 to 18.2 months for those under 40.
The Journal of Comparative Effectiveness Research discusses new recommendations from the Center for Medical Technology Policy's Green Park Collaborative for evaluating oncology treatment sequences. The framework developed by GPC-USA aims to fill evidence gaps and identify patient-important outcomes, ultimately improving cancer patient ...
Researchers discovered a compound that targets gut microbes to prevent heart disease by preventing the formation of toxic metabolic byproducts. This new approach may provide a whole new strategy for treating cardiovascular and metabolic diseases.
A study published in The Journal of Urology found that patients with low mental health self-assessments before radical cystectomy had higher rates of high-grade complications, highlighting the importance of preoperative assessment.
The American Gastroenterological Association has released six clinical practice guidelines for common gastrointestinal conditions. The guidelines recommend budesonide for microscopic colitis treatment and suggest selectively using antibiotics in acute diverticulitis management. AGA also advises against upper GI biopsies in immunocompro...
A new study by University of Guelph researchers found that adding estrogen to female mouse brains boosts short-term learning, likely through a 'use-it-or-lose-it' process. The team discovered that brain cells grow more synapses on branches of neurons when exposed to estrogen.
A study published in JNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that continuous joint use of estrogen and progestin reduces the risk of endometrial cancer by 35% in postmenopausal women. The study analyzed data from 16,608 women aged 50-79 with normal uteri, who were randomly assigned to daily estrogen plus progestin or placebo.
Researchers have identified 335 genes that regulate the formation and function of extracellular vesicles (EVs), tiny bubbles released by cells. EVs can promote tissue repair or carry disease signals for cancer and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. Understanding EV biology could lead to new therapeutic treatments.
A study published in Gastroenterology reveals that the inhibition of CPEB4 protein can prevent the development of abnormal blood vessels associated with cirrhosis. This finding has significant implications for the treatment of this disease, which is responsible for a high rate of hospital admissions and use of health resources.
Researchers investigated the reasons behind tamoxifen's varying efficacy in women. Genetic variants on the CYP2D6 gene were initially linked to worse survival rates, but subsequent studies found no association. Advanced statistical modeling suggests that genotyping errors may have contributed to these findings.
A recent study suggests that elevated levels of the enzyme APOBEC3B drive tamoxifen resistance in estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer. Higher APOBEC3B levels were associated with shorter progression-free survival times.
Researchers at UT Health Science Center discover how poxviruses outsmart the body's immune system by targeting a key restriction factor called SAMD9. This finding has significant implications for cancer treatment and therapy, as SAMD9 also suppresses tumors.
The ABCSG-18 clinical trial found that adding denosumab to adjuvant aromatase inhibitor therapy improved disease-free survival in postmenopausal patients with HR+ breast cancer. After a median follow-up of four years, patients assigned denosumab had an 18 percent reduced risk of disease recurring compared with those assigned placebo.
The newly established Collaborative Research Centre on selective autophagy aims to improve therapy for diverse diseases by targeting autophagy at the molecular and cellular level. Researchers will study autophagy in complex organisms, including humans, to understand its role in pathophysiology and develop new therapies.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that treating ear mites in Santa Catalina Island foxes reduced ear tumor prevalence by 99% and inflammation by 90%. The success story highlights the impact of preventative treatments on wildlife populations, with improved conditions for foxes' ear canals and a notable decline in tumors.
A Stanford University study has found that men treated with androgen deprivation therapy for prostate cancer are nearly twice as likely to be diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. The researchers analyzed electronic medical records of thousands of patients, revealing a significant increase in cognitive decline among those receiving ADT.
A new $4.4 million research project aims to improve diagnosis and therapies for obesity-related health problems, including coronary heart disease, endometrial cancer, type-2 diabetes, and degenerative joint disease. The project will utilize big data analytics and genomics to gain insights into the causes of obesity.
The San Bernardino shooting is a rare example of a hybrid mass killing involving multiple shooters and a female perpetrator. Experts warn that such incidents are becoming increasingly common due to societal factors like lack of compassion and empathy.
More than 95% of cancer patients expressed interest in at least one complementary therapy if offered, with vitamins/nutritional supplements being the most commonly used. Patients were also interested in massage, acupressure, nutritional counseling, and mindfulness meditation.
Researchers used a rare genetic childhood disease to reveal how cancer cells hijack a metabolic cycle to benefit themselves. The study found that silencing the ASS1 gene, which is lacking in some patients, can be beneficial for cancer growth and could lead to new treatments.
A recent EORTC study identified key health-related quality of life (HRQOL) components to prioritize in caring for older cancer patients. The study found that HRQOL improves with age for social functioning and financial problems, while physical functioning and constipation worsen.
A computer model of tuberculosis has shown that daily antibiotic regimens are more effective than once or twice a week in preventing drug-resistant strains. The study suggests that increasing the number of doses and improving drug properties can lead to significant improvements in treatment success rates.
Researchers at the University of Surrey have discovered a new link between gene regulation and metabolism in baker's yeast and roundworms. The findings, published in Nature Structural & Molecular Biology, could lead to more effective therapies for diseases like cancer and neurodegenerative disorders.
Cancer researchers have developed an animal model to study and target the rare tumor angiosarcoma. By controlling mTORC1 activity, they found that blocking key targets effectively halted tumor development and growth.
Hui Shen, a Van Andel Research Institute Assistant Professor, has received an Ovarian Cancer Research Fund award to investigate cell types that may be used to pinpoint ovarian cancer's cells of origin. Her research aims to identify epigenetic fingerprints of specific genomic regions of ovarian cancer cells and normal cells.
A study found that socioeconomic factors like race, ethnicity, insurance status, and geographic location affect the likelihood of undergoing surgery for early-stage pancreatic cancer. Patients who underwent resection had improved disease-specific survival compared to those who did not, with regional differences in survival rates observed.
The European Menopause and Andropause Society (EMAS) has published a position statement on testosterone replacement therapy in the aging male, highlighting the importance of lifestyle modifications before considering TRT. The statement emphasizes the need for careful risk versus benefit estimation and individual evaluation of co-morbid...
Researchers at the University of York have published research on the 3-D structure of human heparanase, an enzyme that degrades sugars and contributes to cancer cell proliferation. The study's findings will enable a more rational approach to drug design and the development of novel therapeutic agents.
Researchers discovered that changes in metabolites can distinguish between naive and primed pluripotent cells, enabling the use of embryonic stem cells to grow new tissues and organs. The study also found that manipulating metabolite levels could stabilize cell fate in treating common disorders.
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 developed a new method to detect, classify, and pinpoint cancer location using blood platelet RNA analysis, achieving 96% accuracy. The study identified nearly all cancer types and showed immense potential for improving early cancer detection.
Researchers at Linköping University have developed a strategy to discover disease progression at its earliest phase by analyzing T-cells. The study found that specific genes can serve as early disease markers, even before symptoms appear.
Researchers at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia identified a crucial change in a single DNA base that both predisposes children to aggressive neuroblastoma and drives disease progression. This discovery may lead to novel therapies for the complex and deadly disease.
Researchers aim to advance understanding of intrinsically disordered proteins controlling cellular behavior and potential cures for devastating diseases such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's. The initiative seeks to raise awareness about the societal impacts of these understudied proteins and develop new therapies.
A phase III trial showed that sorafenib modestly increased progression-free survival (PFS) and disease control rate in NSCLC patients, but did not impact overall survival. The study also found that EGFR mutation positive patients receiving sorafenib had significantly longer OS and PFS.
A new blood test for prostate cancer significantly improves detection of aggressive cancer, reducing false positives and unnecessary biopsies. The STHLM3 test analyzes protein markers, genetic data, and clinical information to detect cancers in men with low PSA values.
The Integrated Mathematical Oncology Department at Moffitt Cancer Center has been awarded a $10.4 million grant from the National Cancer Institute to develop new strategies to prevent and treat cancer by exploiting Charles Darwin's concept of natural selection.
Scientists have molecularly characterized two types of the second most common kidney cancer, papillary renal cell carcinoma (PRCC), which accounts for 15-20% of kidney cancer cases. The study reveals distinct molecular differences between Type 1 and 2 PRCC, as well as three subtypes of Type 2, each with varying molecular alterations. T...
A new method using sound waves can detect cell stiffness changes that could signal disease, such as cancer and autoimmune disorders. The technique uses low-frequency ultrasonic waves to levitate cells and high-frequency ultrasonic waves to measure their stiffness.
Scientists tracked breast cancer development using tumour DNA shed into bloodstream, reflecting genetic changes and treatment response. The study provides proof-of-principle for real-time monitoring of cancer, potentially reducing need for invasive biopsies.
Patient advocates urge medical professionals and policymakers to consider the long-term effects of advanced breast cancer treatments. They highlight the need for accessible therapies that extend patients' lives, while also addressing financial, employment, and family challenges associated with prolonged illness. Experts note that curre...
Researchers at Hiroshima University have discovered that fragments of cancer DNA circulating in the bloodstream can predict the recurrence and spread of liver cancer. This non-invasive method, known as circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA), provides valuable clinical information about the patient's disease progression.
Pfizer announces new scientific abstracts and presentations for XELJANZ (tofacitinib citrate) in rheumatoid arthritis, including safety data, long-term extension studies, and real-world evaluation. The data highlights the efficacy and safety of XELJANZ in treating RA.
The O'Neill Institute's new Hepatitis Policy Project aims to address issues and barriers of access to hepatitis C treatment, particularly among baby boomers who often don't know they're infected. The project seeks to support hepatitis C consumer education and advocacy organizations through policy research.
A novel fusion gene NUP160-SLC43A3 has been identified in skin cancer cells, leading to rapid tumor progression and a significantly shorter duration between symptoms onset and hospital visit. This discovery has potential implications for new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for angiosarcoma.
Research at the University of Warwick suggests that cognitive behavioural therapies (CBT) can be moderately to strongly effective in tackling insomnia in patients with long-term pain. The study also found improved sleep results in decreased depression, fatigue, and pain. However, electronic delivery methods were less effective.
Rates of kidney failure caused by multiple myeloma have declined over the past decade, with a 20% reduction from 2001-2002 to 2009-2010. ESRD patients with multiple myeloma are also living longer and experiencing a decline in mortality within 3 years after initiating dialysis.
Scientists at The Wistar Institute have discovered how the SPOP gene suppresses tumor growth through induced senescence. When the gene is functioning properly, it acts as a tumor suppressor and induces senescence in cells.
Premature birth can be lifesaving with TPN, but it also causes liver damage. Dr. Ajay Jain is studying ways to prevent TPN-related complications in newborns.
New risk profiling approach aims to detect GI cancers, such as oesophageal adenocarcinoma, in early stages. The five-tier strategy involves lifestyle changes, non-invasive testing, and genetic analysis to tailor screening and prevention options for each individual.
A new analysis reveals that cancer diagnoses lead to significant declines in employment probability, hours worked, and income for American adults. Working-age men experience the most pronounced effects, with annual labor market earnings dropping by almost 40% within two years after diagnosis.
A new study reveals that cancer diagnoses lead to decreases in working hours and incomes, with effects primarily felt by male survivors. Total family income also declines, but recovers within four years after diagnosis.