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'Hedgehog' pathway may hold key to anti-cancer therapy

Scientists have discovered a way to block the growth of human colon cancer cells by targeting the Hedgehog-GLI pathway, preventing tumor growth and metastasis. This breakthrough could provide a new method for treating incurable forms of colon cancer.

SourceWiley·JournalEMBO Molecular Medicine·DateAug 26, 2009

Disparities in cancer care reflect hospital resources, U-M study finds

A new study from the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center found that hospitals treating more black cancer patients have lower survival rates for breast and colon cancer, regardless of race. The researchers suggest that factors such as hospital resources and quality of care are key contributors to these disparities.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJournal of Clinical Oncology·DateAug 20, 2009

Heavy drinkers face significantly increased cancer risk

A Montreal study links heavy consumption of beer and spirits to an increased risk of six different cancers, including oesophageal, colon, lung, pancreatic, liver, and prostate cancer. Heavy drinkers face a sevenfold increased risk of esophageal cancer and an 80% higher risk of colon cancer.

SourceMcGill University·JournalCancer Detection and Prevention·DateAug 3, 2009

Colon cancer and the microbes in your gut

A healthy diet is linked to a reduced risk of colon cancer due to the growth of beneficial gut bacteria that produce short-chain fatty acids. The composition of diet directly influences the diversity of microbes in the gut, with complex carbohydrates supporting good bacterial populations.

Mail and electronic reminders may increase colon cancer screening

A study published in Archives of Internal Medicine found that mail reminders increased colon cancer screening rates by 44% compared to non-reminded patients. Electronic physician reminders also showed promise, especially among patients with three or more primary care visits, resulting in a 59.5% screening rate.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Internal Medicine·DateFeb 23, 2009

Novel marker of colon cancer

Researchers have discovered a novel marker for colon cancer, revealing differentially expressed genes that can help identify diagnostic and therapeutic targets. The study's findings provide new insights into the progression of colon cancer and may lead to improved patient outcomes.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateOct 23, 2008

Cancer-causing gut bacteria exposed

A team of scientists has discovered that a molecule produced by a common gut bacterium activates signaling pathways associated with cancer cells. The research, published in the Journal of Medical Microbiology, sheds light on the way gut bacteria can cause colon cancer.

SourceMicrobiology Society·JournalJournal of Medical Microbiology·DateSep 21, 2008

Early stage colon cancer characterized by inactivation of gatekeeper gene

A Singaporean research team reports that the RUNX3 gatekeeper gene is inactivated at an early stage of colon cancer. The study suggests that reactivating this gene could lead to a diagnostic test and therapeutic target. This finding builds upon previous knowledge of tumor suppressor genes disrupting APC, leading to cancer development.

Evaluation of quality measure for colon cancer care suggests considerable improvements needed

A study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that only 38 percent of U.S. hospitals were compliant with the guideline to examine 12 or more lymph nodes in colon cancer patients by 2004-2005, despite being recommended since 1997. Compliance increased from 15% to 38% over the eight-year period.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateSep 9, 2008

US hospitals 'flunk' colon cancer

A Northwestern University study found that over 60% of US hospitals do not comply with the recommendation to examine 12 lymph nodes after colon cancer surgery, leading to improved survival rates when more nodes are checked.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateSep 9, 2008