Research on colorectal and bowel cancer. Covers AI-audited colonoscopy, gut-bacteria links, family risk, and early-onset differences.
Researchers investigated the effects of neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy on CD8+ tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes, PD-L1, and mucin expression in rectal cancer patients. The study found that nCRT exposure was associated with higher mucin expression and a non-significant difference in PD-L1 expression, suggesting an immunosuppressive phenotype.
A new study from Duke University suggests that consuming more fiber can lead to improved gut health, regardless of the specific supplement used. Participants who had been eating the least amount of fiber before the study showed the greatest benefit from supplements.
Research reveals T cells in colorectal cancer have a double-edged function. Initially protective against tumor growth, they later promote cancer progression by altering their receptors and producing pro-inflammatory cytokines. The study offers new insights into the role of T cells in colorectal cancer and potential avenues for therapy.
Scientists from A*STAR and NUS Cancer Science Institute identified a key cancer progression mechanism that could lead to more effective treatments. The discovery involves reactivating the hTERT gene, which is responsible for prolonging telomeres in cancer cells.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine found that Clostridioides difficile (C. difficile) bacteria may cause colorectal cancer in younger adults. The bacterium causes serious diarrheal infections and is linked to approximately 500,000 infections annually in the US.
Researchers developed an AI system that classifies IBDN lesions accurately, displaying image-based diagnostic ability with 64.5% sensitivity and 89.5% specificity. The correct diagnosis rate of the AI system was 79.0, surpassing that of endoscopists, who achieved a 77.8% accuracy rate.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of 39 publications found a global association between COVID-19 measures and reduced breast, colorectal, and cervical cancer screenings. This could lead to an increase in avoidable cancer deaths.
A new classification system for colorectal cancer has been proposed, grouping cancers into five subtypes based on epithelial status, microsatellite status, and fibrosis. This update could inform targeted drug development efforts and improve treatment approaches for patients with different biological characteristics.
Researchers found eligible younger Americans (45-54) are less likely to meet recommended colorectal cancer screening guidelines due to work, family, insurance, and healthcare barriers. These disparities may worsen as the age group is expanded under new USPSTF recommendations.
Researchers found high mortality rates in the Midwest/northeastern Great Lakes region and lower risk counties in western/southwestern areas. The study highlights regions warranting further investigation and preventive interventions to address the increasing burden of young-onset colorectal cancer.
A study found that younger U.S. adults are less likely to be screened for colorectal cancer despite being eligible under new guidelines, with greater disparities observed across race, ethnicity, income, education, and insurance coverage. Screening participation increased over time but was smallest among individuals age 50-54.
A recent survey revealed significant gaps in cancer screening among women aged 50-64, with rates as low as 50% for colorectal cancer and 46.5% for both cancers. The study found that patient-centered approaches to screening can facilitate timely testing and management of abnormal results.
Researchers analyzed data from over 134,000 participants and found a strong association between Western diets and colorectal tumors containing the pks+ E. coli bacteria. The study suggests that specific components of Western-style diets may increase the risk of colorectal cancer by promoting the growth of these pathogenic bacteria.
Researchers at Thomas Jefferson University have developed a new Listeria-based booster that improves the protection of vaccines against recurring colon cancer. The combination of viral and bacterial vaccine approaches shows safe and far more effective results than either approach alone.
A new study led by UCSF found that routine screening for and removal of precancerous anal lesions can significantly reduce the risk of anal cancer. The study, known as ANCHOR Study, showed a 57% reduction in anal cancer among people with HIV who underwent treatment for high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSIL).
The American Gastroenterological Association has released a series of evidence-based position statements guiding the creation of a national colorectal cancer screening approach. The goal is to eliminate barriers and reduce mortality by ensuring equitable access to CRC screening programs for all individuals.
A recent study found that certain bacteria species in the gut are associated with a higher risk of colorectal cancer in younger populations. The research suggests that dietary patterns high in processed meats, low-calorie drinks, and liquor may contribute to this increased risk.
A recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that dostarlimab was effective in treating a subtype of rectal cancer, showing remarkable responses and resolving difficult symptoms. The treatment offers a more effective and less toxic alternative to traditional chemotherapy and radiation.
A national survey study found that colorectal cancer screening increased via stool testing while colonoscopy decreased during the pandemic. Breast and cervical cancer screenings also saw modest declines.
A study by Cedars-Sinai researchers confirms that counting metastatic lymph nodes is a dominant predictor of cancer death, improving staging and treatment for solid tumors. The simple process can be applied in virtually all medical settings without increased cost or complexity.
A new large national study found Black patients with early-onset colorectal cancer received worse and less timely care than white counterparts. Health insurance coverage type was the largest identified contributor to racial disparities, accounting for 28.6% of the disparity among colon cancer patients.
The ECOG-ACRIN Cancer Research Group presented promising trial results at ASCO 2022, including an 8-year survival rate in the CHAARTED prostate trial. The research also explored outcomes by tobacco use in head and neck studies, shedding light on cancer treatment effectiveness.
Research found a significant increase in esophageal cancer and Barrett's esophagus among middle-aged adults, with rates nearly doubling between 2012 and 2019. The study suggests an urgent need for earlier endoscopic screening in this age group, particularly those with multiple risk factors.
A new study has identified persistent racial and ethnic disparities in five-year survival rates for younger adults with colorectal cancer. White patients had a higher five-year relative survival rate compared to Black, Hispanic, and Asian patients, regardless of disease stage.
A study of early-onset colon cancer found that five-year survival rates remained lower for Blacks and Hispanics compared to Whites, despite improvements in White survival over a 20-year span. The disparities persisted even among younger adults with localized disease.
Adults aged 45-64 experienced a nearly doubled rate of esophageal cancer and a 50% increase in Barrett's esophagus between 2012 and 2019. Researchers recommend more frequent screening for middle-aged patients with multiple risk factors.
Chronic bacterial infections can lead to chronic inflammation and DNA damage, increasing CRC risk. Salmonella infections are particularly risky, as they impair immune responses and promote tumorigenesis.
A new study from Massachusetts General Hospital found that starting endoscopic screening at age 45 can significantly reduce the risk of colorectal cancer (CRC) in women. The study included 111,801 women and showed a 50-60% lower risk of CRC among those who started screening at this age.
Initiation of lower gastrointestinal endoscopy before age 50 among women is associated with a reduced risk of colorectal cancer. Guidelines now recommend that women initiate colorectal cancer screening before age 50 to reduce the risk, including cases diagnosed before age 55.
Canada's cancer rates are declining overall, but new cases and deaths are on the rise due to an aging population and growing numbers. Despite this, efforts in cancer prevention, screening, early detection, and treatment have led to improved survival rates for those diagnosed with cancer.
Researchers found that a molecule called beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) produced in the liver during low-carb diets can suppress colorectal tumor growth. BHB's anti-tumor effects were replicated by giving mice the molecule directly, indicating its potential as a preventive and treatment for colorectal cancer.
The US Multisociety Task Force on Colorectal Cancer recommends genetic evaluation and personalized surveillance plans for patients with hamartomatous polyps. Genetic testing is critical in cancer prevention, allowing for tailored cancer surveillance to prevent progression and save lives.
The USPSTF recommends against initiating low-dose aspirin use for primary prevention of CVD in adults 60+, but suggests its use for those with a 10% or greater 10-year CVD risk. The net benefit is small, and those willing to take daily aspirin are more likely to benefit.
Researchers at Texas A&M University developed a low-cost, minimally invasive wireless device that uses photodynamic therapy to kill cancer cells. The device enables precise and safe treatment options during surgery, potentially reducing the need for additional treatments like chemotherapy.
A study published in Gastroenterology found that artificial intelligence reduced the rate of missed precancerous polyps in colorectal cancer screening by twofold compared to standard colonoscopy. The AI detection method identified smaller, flatter polyps and improved false negative rates.
Researchers identified rural Georgia counties with high mortality rates from breast, prostate, colorectal, and lung cancer. These hotspots were concentrated in the eastern Piedmont to southern Coastal Plain regions, as well as southwestern and northern rural areas.
Researchers used mathematical modeling to characterize the interplay between immune suppression, immune blockade and antigenicity in pre-cancerous cells. They found that an immunosuppressive environment is crucial for colorectal cancer progression.
A clinical trial reveals that lamivudine, a widely used HIV treatment, halted disease progression in 28% of patients with fourth-line metastatic colorectal cancer. The study suggests an unexpected promising direction for cancer treatment and encourages the exploration of pairing reverse transcriptase inhibitor therapy with immunotherapy.
Researchers found that modeling studies have been assuming colonoscopies are more accurate than they really are, detecting fewer small adenomas. However, colonoscopy still appears effective in finding precursors of cancer.
The study reveals a narrowing gap between cancer profiles in China and the USA, with converging trends in lung, breast, and colorectal cancers. China's cancer burden is expected to rise, while the US has seen reduced rates since the 1990s due to effective prevention strategies.
A machine-learning algorithm detected potential signs of colorectal cancer in high-risk patients who missed routine screenings. The algorithm identified patients as high-risk by analyzing age, gender, and recent CBC results, and subsequent screenings showed significant findings in 70% of the flagged group.
Researchers develop innovative non-contact agitation technology to assess motility and invasive capacity of cancer cells in tissue sections. The study reveals significant increases in Rac/Cdc42 activity in tumor areas, with stronger correlations found in advanced cancer stages.
A University of Illinois review examines how food deserts, poor diet, and racial disparities affect bile acids, gut microbes, and cancer incidence. The study suggests that Western diets contribute to the development of colorectal cancer, particularly among Black Americans.
A new study found that clinics with higher FIT completion rates had added staff to support patients, provided educational materials, and offered on-call support. This approach reduced disparities among low-income and racially diverse populations, improving colorectal cancer screening outcomes.
A new study finds that clinics supporting patients throughout the entire FIT process improve return rates and reduce colorectal cancer-related illness. Additionally, a telephone survey for dementia detection shows promise as a low-cost diagnostic tool, especially in primary care settings.
Researchers have created a new type of colon tattoo ink that is more biocompatible and less prone to diffusion than existing inks. The ink uses metal-derived nanoparticles and polymers to adhere to the submucosal surface in the colon, allowing for better identification and removal of complex polyps and tumors.
A new study reveals that the COVID-19 pandemic has led to significant declines in cancer screening rates across the US, particularly for colorectal, cervical, breast, and lung cancers. The American Cancer Society's National Consortium has announced nine recommendations to increase cancer screening rates and improve quality care.
A study of 5,635 individuals with colorectal cancer and 4,515 controls found that living with overweight or obesity for more years increases the risk of developing colorectal cancer. The findings suggest that weight management may be crucial in preventing this type of cancer.
A new study found that nearly one-third of older adult female survivors of colorectal, endometrial, and ovarian cancer experience quality-of-life-impacting challenges with physical activity due to chronic lower extremity lymphedema. The researchers urge the medical community to include regular lymphedema assessments in survivorship care.
Researchers have discovered that cancer cells carrying a common mutation accumulate large amounts of ferrous iron, which can be exploited to deliver powerful anticancer drugs. The therapeutic strategy could treat various cancers driven by KRAS mutations.
A recent study by City of Hope researchers highlights the limitations of Signatera, a popular liquid biopsy test for detecting colorectal cancer recurrence. The study found that standard-of-care CT scan plus CEA blood draw test was more effective in identifying early disease recurrence.
A new fluorescent DNA label has been developed to visualize disrupted DNA architecture in cancer cells, with promising results for improved cancer diagnoses and risk stratification. The study showed that the label can distinguish normal tissue from precancerous and cancerous lesions.
A meta-analysis of 280,660 cases of colorectal cancer and 14,139 cases of adenoma found that taller individuals have a higher risk of developing colorectal cancer and precancerous colon polyps. The study suggests that adults over 4 inches (10 cm) above the average U.S. height may be at increased risk.
Researchers created implantable beads that produce high concentrations of interleukin-2, a natural compound activating white blood cells to fight cancer. The treatment eradicated ovarian and colorectal cancer in mice within six days, paving the way for human clinical trials later this year.
Scientists have discovered a new therapeutic approach to aid the immune system in fighting cancer, offering hope for better solutions for patients. Researchers found that blocking the EP4 molecule can 'free' the immune system and restore its cancer-fighting functions.
A regionwide, structured colorectal cancer screening program eliminated disparities in colorectal cancer death rates between Black and white Kaiser Permanente members. Organized screening outreach markedly increased screening rates and led to significant decreases in incidence and death rates.
A recent review highlights the effects of different intestinal bacteria on colorectal cancer, exploring new therapies for disease prevention and treatment. Beneficial probiotics, such as Akkermansia muciniphila and Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG, exhibit anticancer properties and reduce CRC cell proliferation.
Researchers compared early- and late-stage breast and colorectal cancer diagnoses before and during the pandemic at a California cancer center. The study found significant changes in diagnosis stages during the pandemic.
A new study highlights alternative treatment options that consider a patient's likelihood of recovery and quality of life. Total Definitive Treatment (TDT) is an approach that combines chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and close monitoring to potentially cure patients without surgery.
A recent study published in JAMA Network Open found that the COVID-19 pandemic led to fewer early-stage and more late-stage breast cancer diagnoses. Researchers at UC San Diego Health surveyed patients with breast and colorectal cancers in 2019 and 2020, finding a significant increase in stage IV diagnoses.