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New avenue for treating colon cancer

Researchers have identified an imbalance in the HNF4A gene variant as a potential biomarker for colon cancer. The study suggests that certain genetic variations may make individuals more susceptible to the disease, and drugs targeting Src kinase activity could potentially prevent or treat it.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 9, 2012

Regular use of vitamin and mineral supplements could reduce the risk of colon cancer

Researchers found that rats given daily multivitamin and mineral supplements showed an 84% reduction in pre-cancerous lesions and did not develop tumors when exposed to carcinogens. The study suggests that regular supplement use could help protect against colon cancer, giving cancer patients valuable guidance.

SourceCanadian Science Publishing·JournalCanadian Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology·DateFeb 3, 2012

Study showed oxaliplatin improved colon cancer patient survival

A recent study found that adding oxaliplatin to adjuvant chemotherapy for stage III colon cancer patients in the general population improved overall survival rates. The research also showed that this combination therapy was effective across various practice settings, including older and minority patients with comorbid conditions.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateJan 20, 2012

Survival disparities in African-American and white colo-rectal cancer patients

A study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that African-American patients with resected stage II and III colon cancer experienced poorer overall and recurrence-free survival compared to whites. The five-year relative survival rates for black and white colorectal cancer patients were 57% and 68%, respectively.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateOct 12, 2011

Light can detect pre-cancerous colon cells

Researchers at Duke University have developed a technology that uses angle-resolved low coherence interferometry to detect pre-cancerous cells in the colon. The device shines short bursts of light into tissue samples and analyzes scattered light for signs of dysplasia, with an accuracy rate of 85%.

SourceDuke University·JournalJournal of Biomedical Optics·DateOct 10, 2011

Cooked green vegetables, dried fruit, legumes, and brown rice associated with fewer colon polyps

A recent study published in Nutrition and Cancer found that high consumption of these foods was associated with a reduced risk of colon polyps by 33-40%, confirming the results of past studies. The protective effects may be due to their cancer-fighting agents, including fiber and detoxifying compounds.

Folate intake may reduce colorectal cancer risk

A large cohort study found that high folate intake was associated with a reduced risk of colorectal cancer. The study also distinguished between natural and synthetic forms of folate and found no increased risk among participants consuming high levels of folate through supplements or fortification.

SourceAmerican Cancer Society·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateJul 5, 2011

Marriage improves odds of surviving colon cancer

A new study by Brigham Young University researchers found that married individuals have a 14 percent lower risk of colon cancer death compared to unmarried patients. Married patients were also diagnosed at earlier stages of the disease and received more aggressive treatment, contributing to improved survival odds.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalCancer Epidemiology·DateJun 21, 2011

DNA repair system affects colon cancer recurrence and survival

Patients with mismatch repair defects have lower tumor recurrence rates, longer remissions, and improved overall and disease-free survival compared to those without the defects. The study suggests that these defects are associated with a reduced response to 5-FU therapy, particularly in patients with inherited defects.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateMay 19, 2011

Blood test for colon cancer screening beneficial for some seniors, but not for many others

A new study of U.S. veterans ages 70 and older found that healthy seniors benefit most from current colon cancer screening methods, while less healthy veterans may experience a net burden. The study highlights the need to target screening for those who are likely to benefit and re-evaluate screening for those who are not.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateMay 9, 2011

A less painful colonoscopy

Researchers at Tufts University have developed a device that can help reduce patient discomfort during colonoscopies by detecting and preventing 'looping' of the scope. The EFOST technology uses fiber optic bend sensors to create a visual image of the scope's position and shape, allowing doctors to make adjustments in real-time.

JCI online early table of contents: April 1, 2011

Researchers found that the protein PUMA is responsible for inducing apoptosis in intestinal epithelial cells in response to inflammation, suggesting a promising target for ulcerative colitis therapies. Meanwhile, DNA methylation studies revealed targeted gene silencing and potential cancer-initiating events.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateApr 1, 2011

Surgery complications linked to chemotherapy delay, U-M study finds

A new study from the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center found that chemotherapy delays are common among patients with surgical complications after colorectal cancer surgery. The study, which analyzed data from 17,108 patients, suggests that surgical complications can have long-term impacts on quality of care.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalDiseases of the Colon & Rectum·DateDec 8, 2010