Research on new and better ways to treat cancer. Covers radiotherapy, targeted microdroplets, nerve-injury protection, drug combinations, and tumor models.
A combination of bevacizumab and erlotinib has shown a 21 percent response rate in patients with recurrent stage IIIb or IV lung cancer, with five patients experiencing partial responses and tumor stabilization for over a year. The treatment was well-tolerated with mild to moderate toxicity.
Research reveals that survivors of childhood cancer are experiencing significant sleep disturbances even years after completing treatment. The University of Minnesota study aims to investigate the causes and effects of these issues.
The AACR is now accepting nominations for its Cancer Prevention Research Award. Candidates must have made significant contributions to the field and be able to present a lecture at an upcoming conference in Phoenix, Arizona. The winner will receive $5,000 and support to attend the meeting.
A study found that MR imaging identified 86% of residual disease, outperforming mammography in detecting disease near the lumpectomy site. The imaging modality was also most accurate in identifying disease in different quadrants than the original tumor site.
A modified adenovirus, Delta-24-RGD, has shown improved infectivity and replication efficiency compared to the unmodified Delta-24. This leads to increased cytopathic effects and prolonged survival rates in mouse models of human glioma. The authors conclude that Delta-24-RGD may be an effective agent in treating gliomas.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine discovered a BRAF gene mutation in 68% of papillary thyroid cancers, which can be challenging to distinguish from benign conditions. This mutation causes continuous cell growth and division, leading to cancer.
A study of 1,383 cancer patients found that uninsured patients paid more for healthcare services but received significantly fewer treatments and services compared to insured patients. The disparity was attributed to various factors, including age at diagnosis and insurance coverage by race and ethnicity.
Researchers identified lifestyle factors that predict prostate cancer recurrence in treated patients. Patients with low body mass index, regular exercise, and annual screenings had lower risk of progression.
The American Academy of Neurology identifies five categories of reasons for treatment failure in headache patients. Incomplete or incorrect diagnoses are the most common reason, followed by unaddressed factors that exacerbate the headache. The experts also highlight inadequate medication regimens and lack of non-drug treatment options ...
Researchers are investigating new methods to combat cancer growth through computer models and cytotoxic treatments. They also discovered that a process called Auger emission can cause electrons to be emitted in well-defined directions by single molecules, leading to potential breakthroughs in physics research.
Researchers at Fox Chase Cancer Center developed a transgenic mouse model of epithelial ovarian cancer, allowing scientists to study the disease's progression from early stages. The model has the potential to facilitate advances in early detection and treatment of ovarian cancer.
The University of Pittsburgh will conduct a new study on acupuncture's effectiveness in alleviating hot flashes, insomnia, and nervousness in breast cancer survivors experiencing menopause. The study aims to explore the potential benefits of acupuncture for reducing cortisol levels and promoting relaxation.
A single-visit approach combining visual inspection with acetic acid wash (VIA) followed by cryotherapy shows promising results in rural Thailand, with 94% of women testing negative for VIA at one year's follow-up. The program is safe, acceptable, and feasible, achieving moderate population coverage with high satisfaction rates.
A study published in The Lancet found that same-day testing and treatment led to high rates of compliance with recommended treatment, with 83.2% returning for a follow-up visit. The 'one-stop' approach also improved patient satisfaction, with nearly 98% saying the treatment was equal to or better than expected.
A Mayo Clinic phase II study of 42 patients with advanced androgen-independent prostate cancer found that green tea did not provide therapeutic benefit. The study showed no sustained decline in PSA levels, and high doses of green tea were associated with significant side effects.
Tamoxifen treatment reduced the risk of benign breast disease and biopsies in high-risk women. Women treated with tamoxifen had a 28% lower incidence of benign diseases than those on placebo.
A study by Duke University researchers found that outpatient Mohs micrographic surgery is safe, with a complication rate of 1.64% out of 1,343 procedures performed in 2000. The results counter concerns raised by lobbyists and policymakers about the safety of outpatient surgeries.
Researchers have discovered a novel photoreceptor system in the human eye that controls melatonin production, which plays a key role in circadian rhythms. The study suggests that exposure to blue light at night may disrupt melatonin production and increase the risk of breast cancer.
A recent study found that combination hormone therapy increased the risk of stroke in postmenopausal women, including those with and without high blood pressure. The therapy was found to be ineffective for primary prevention of cardiovascular disease and heart attack.
The discovery of neurofibromin regulation may help develop targeted therapies to block neurofibromin degradation in NF1 patients and treat cancers with amplified Ras activity. Nf1 heterozygous cells show increased sensitivity to growth factors, suggesting even diminished neurofibromin levels can affect normal cell behavior.
Researchers found that selenium supplements reduced DNA damage in elderly male dogs' prostates, potentially benefiting aging prostate health. A separate study suggests a new retinoid treatment may prevent lung cancer in former smokers by restoring RAR-ß expression and reducing squamous metaplasia.
A study by Ohio State University found that topical oxygen therapy significantly improved healing rates for difficult-to-treat wounds, including diabetic hand ulcers and bedsores. The therapy, which involves applying pure oxygen to the wound, showed a 75% healing rate for acute traumatic injuries.
Researchers found that nicotine stimulates lung epithelial cells to activate a molecular pathway promoting cell growth and survival. This activation undermines the body's natural defense mechanism against cancer. The study suggests reconsidering the risk-benefit ratio of nicotine-based quitting aids.
Research reveals nicotine activates Akt survival pathway, undermining programmed cell death in lung cancer cells. This finding may lead to re-evaluation of quitting-aids' benefits.
A recent study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that combination hormone therapy was associated with a 3-5% increase in breast density, while estrogen alone had no effect. This suggests that increased breast density may be a valid marker for the effect of interventions on breast cancer risk.
A survey of 1,120 cancer physicians reveals substantial differences in views about the purpose of clinical trials. Pediatric oncologists are more likely to enroll patients in trials for state-of-the-art treatment, while other specialties prioritize scientific advancement and future patient care.
Scientists discovered that SNF5 is a tumor suppressor gene responsible for malignant rhabdoid tumors, a rare and aggressive childhood cancer. The study used a novel knockout technique to create mice with reversible, inverting conditional SNF5 genes, which developed cancers quickly.
A recent study found that pravastatin treatment reduced coronary death, non-fatal heart attack, and fatal or non-fatal stroke by 15% in adults aged 70-82. The benefits were most pronounced for reducing death from heart disease, with a nearly 25% relative risk reduction.
Researchers found that overexpressed LPAAT-beta is highly tumorigenic and causes cancer cells to die when inhibited. The small molecule inhibitors induce apoptosis in various tumor cell lines, including lung and colon cancers.
A study analyzing patient deaths and survivors in German hospitals found that nearly 40% of total expenditures went towards the care of just 10% of patients. The most expensive group were young female cancer patients, while old and terminally ill patients accounted for the lowest costs.
Research found that chronic stress impairs immune function, particularly glucocorticoid sensitivity in parents of children with cancer. Social support mitigated some immunologic consequences, suggesting a novel mechanism for psychological stress's influence on inflammation.
A new study found that synthetic hormone estren can build bone in animals without affecting reproductive organs. The researchers tested estren, estrogen, and testosterone in mice with and without sex organs, showing estren's potential to provide a safe form of hormone replacement therapy.
A study by Dr Zeba Aziz found that socio-economic status significantly impacts breast cancer treatment and survival rates in developing countries. Women from lower socio-economic backgrounds often delay seeking medical help, resulting in delayed diagnosis and inadequate treatment, leading to poor survival rates.
As new genetic components are identified, clinical services must adapt to cope with the increasing demand. The role of genetic information in managing inherited cancers is becoming increasingly important, enabling tailored therapies for individual patients.
A study by Professor Lesley Degner found that Canadian women with breast cancer and men with prostate cancer fare better emotionally and socially due to their positive attitude towards illness. The most important information patients want is 'What are my chances of a cure?' and 'How far has my disease spread?'.
Daily estradiol treatment for three weeks reduces mammary cancer incidence by 90% in rats. The study suggests a simple and safe hormonal prevention method for human breast cancer, comparable to full-term pregnancy or tamoxifen treatment.
Scientists have developed a novel treatment using neural stem cells to track and target brain tumor cells that spread into normal brain tissue. The therapy involves genetically engineering neural stem cells to produce interleukin 12, an immune-stimulating chemical known to kill glioma cells. Mice treated with this approach survived sig...
Physicians must consider ethical obligations when treating patients using alternative medicine, including risks and benefits of therapies. A list of factors to aid risk-benefit analysis has been provided by authors, emphasizing the need for thorough investigation and in-depth discussions with patients.
A team led by Purdue University's David Sanders has developed a promising system to deliver genes to diseased liver and brain cells using a modified Ross River Virus (RRV) as a Trojan horse. This approach avoids the harmful side effects associated with other retroviruses, bringing gene therapy closer to treating human diseases.
Researchers have found a new avenue of HIV damage that affects the structure of CD4 T cells, making it impossible for them to function normally. This discovery may lead to improved disease staging and therapy, as therapies targeting inflammation and scar tissue accumulation could enhance current antiviral treatment.
A new computer model suggests that regular visual inspections every five years can save lives and reduce costs compared to DNA testing or traditional Pap smears. In Thailand, where cervical cancer is a major public health concern, this low-tech screening strategy could be an effective and affordable solution.
Researchers at Mayo Clinic developed a new calculator to determine baseline prognosis and treatment benefits for patients with resected melanoma. The tool calculates patient potential living with no recurring cancer or after surgery and interferon therapy, empowering informed treatment decisions.
Researchers identified a green tea compound that may block a key cell receptor involved in allergic responses, potentially providing an anti-allergenic effect. The study found that the compound, methylated EGCG, is more potent than previously discovered compounds and may work against various allergens.
Smokers are less sensitive to future health consequences than nonsmokers, prioritizing immediate health gains over long-term risks. Smoking cessation therapies should focus on illustrating the immediate consequences of not smoking, such as contingency management therapy.
Researchers found that rats treated with adult human stromal cells experienced significant improvements in function after a stroke, including enhanced motor and sensory abilities. The study suggests a potential new treatment approach for stroke patients, offering a longer time window for effective treatment.
A recent study by Ohio State University researchers found that cancer patients with a history of mood disorders are most at risk for developing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The study suggests that doctors should screen all cancer patients for depressive and anxiety symptoms, particularly those with past mood disorders.
A study of 536 patients found that women reported poorer physical and psychological functioning after hospital treatment, with lower quality of life associated with feelings of loneliness. The absence of social support was a key factor in this difference, highlighting the importance of friendship and companionship for women's well-being
A randomized controlled trial found that early laser treatment of uncomplicated childhood haemangiomas offered no significant benefits in terms of clearance or cosmetic concerns. However, treated lesions were at a higher risk of skin atrophy and hypopigmentation compared to untreated children.
Researchers found that MSI-1436, a natural compound derived from dogfish shark liver, helped normal and obese mice and rats lose fat without losing muscle mass. Phase I trials are expected to begin next year to test its safety and effectiveness as an anti-obesity treatment.
The Lancet Oncology and Infectious Diseases examine the effectiveness of cancer prevention strategies, including chemoprevention and lifestyle changes. Researchers also explore the impact of HIV treatment on reducing epidemics and developing vaccines against the virus.
A UK population study suggests a possible link between colorectal cancer and human growth hormone therapy, with treated patients at an increased risk of death from the disease. The study found significant risks of incidence and mortality associated with colorectal cancer in patients treated during childhood and early adulthood.
The Prostate Interactive Educational System (PIES) is an interactive, computer-based program designed to provide comprehensive information tailored to the patient's preferences. The program will present disease and treatment information, a virtual support group, and allow patients to jot down notes in a virtual notebook.
A study of 44,241 women found that postmenopausal estrogen-only therapy increases the risk of ovarian cancer by 60%, with a greater risk for those using therapy for 10 or more years. The relative risk was highest for women who used estrogen for 20 or more years.
Anastrozole, an aromatase inhibitor, has been shown to be more effective than tamoxifen in reducing the risk of breast cancer recurrence, hot flushes, and thromboembolic events. The treatment also reduces the incidence of endometrial abnormalities and vaginal bleeding, providing a significant benefit for postmenopausal women with early...
Researchers at Stanford University found that briefly disrupting a single mutant gene can permanently alter the course of cancer. The study, led by Dean Felsher, used a gene called MYC to induce cancer cells to revert to normal bone cells after treatment was stopped.
New findings from the Heart Protection Study (HPS) reveal substantial benefits of statins among high-risk patients, including those with normal or low blood cholesterol levels. The study found a significant reduction in death rates from heart attack and stroke, with simvastatin also showing well-tolerated benefits.
A computer-based system is being developed to assist astronauts on extended missions with conflict resolution and mild depression. The system uses problem-solving therapy and computer simulations to help users identify and address problems.
The Society for Women's Health Research is launching a new series on women and pharmacology, covering topics such as sex differences in drug metabolism and the risks of polypharmacy. The seven articles will provide valuable information to the public on how drugs affect women and inform efforts to improve women's health.
The article highlights the significant impact of behavioral factors on various diseases, including coronary heart disease, diabetes, obesity, and asthma. Research shows that negative emotions can lower immunity, while stress and depression can provoke the release of hormones that affect immune function.
Researchers argue that NY-ELCAP cannot determine if spiral CT screening saves lives due to a lack of control group. The study's design flaw could lead to overdiagnosis and unnecessary treatment for some participants.