Articles tagged with Colorectal Cancer
A global review of health issues highlights the UK's National Health Service (NHS) reduced spending on low-value procedures, while sub-Saharan Africans rate their health among the lowest in the world. The study also suggests that US cancer care may provide less value compared to Western Europe.
Research reveals that adults in Ontario with IDD are nearly twice as likely not to be up-to-date on colorectal tests compared to their non-IDD counterparts. The study highlights the need for targeted interventions to make cancer screening more equitable in this population, where chronic conditions like cancer increase with age.
A recent study published in JNCI: Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that tumor location in colorectal cancer may influence survival. Patients with left-sided primary tumors had better survival outcomes than those with right-sided tumors, suggesting potential differences in gene expression patterns and cancer biology.
Researchers employed a 'Big Bang' model to trace the origins of colorectal cancer cells, revealing clues to why tumor cells become good or bad and potential ways to stop them before they start growing. The study highlights the importance of understanding the early stages of tumor development to prevent cancer.
A new study by American Cancer Society researchers found that smokers before and after diagnosis had a higher risk of death from all causes and colorectal cancer-specific mortality compared to non-smokers. Smoking is associated with more aggressive tumors or decreased treatment efficacy, leading to increased mortality.
Researchers used the mortality-to-incidence ratio to identify global disparities in colorectal cancer screening and treatment. Countries with lower-than-expected ratios have strong national health systems with formal screening programs.
A new study found that vitamin D boosts immune function, reducing colorectal cancer risk. Researchers analyzed data from over 170,000 participants and discovered a link between high vitamin D levels and lower rates of colorectal tumors with immune cells.
Patients with advanced stage IV colorectal cancer are having fewer surgeries, but still showing improved survival rates due to the advent of more effective chemotherapeutic options and biologic treatments. The median survival rate for these patients has increased from 8.6% in 1988 to 17.8% in 2009.
A recent study published in JAMA Surgery found that patients with metastatic colorectal cancer are experiencing a decrease in primary tumor resection rates. Despite this decrease, overall survival rates for these patients have improved, indicating potential overutilization of surgery in certain patient populations.
A new study published in PeerJ found an inverse relationship between oxygen concentration and lung cancer incidence, with counties at higher elevations experiencing lower rates. The association was consistent across population subgroups and demographic variables, suggesting that inhaled oxygen may be a human carcinogen.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University have discovered new gene mutations specific to colon cancers in African Americans, offering hope for targeted treatments. The study found that these distinct molecular differences may hold the key to reducing devastating effects of the disease on this population.
A New York University study found that adherence to cancer prevention guidelines was associated with reduced risk of obesity-related cancers. The study highlights the importance of low alcohol consumption and a plant-based diet in reducing cancer risk, particularly for breast, prostate, and colorectal cancers.
The American Cancer Society's annual cancer statistics report found a 22% drop in cancer mortality rates over two decades, resulting in the avoidance of more than 1.5 million cancer deaths. The report also shows substantial variation in decline rates by state, with the Northeast experiencing the largest decline and the South the smallest.
A study published in the British Journal of General Practice found that GPs often do not refer patients for cancer investigations due to concerns about raising patient anxiety. Researchers suggest that GPs should consider discussing cancer possibilities with more openness and involve patients in the decision-making process.
A small study by Johns Hopkins researchers found that dense bacterial mats called biofilms are present in the majority of colorectal cancers and polyps, particularly on the right side of the colon. The presence of these bacterial bunches may increase cancer risk and form the basis of new diagnostic tests.
A study published in Genetic Testing and Molecular Biomarkers found that specific variations in the ADIPOQ gene may increase or decrease colorectal cancer risk. The research suggests that these genetic variations interact with environmental factors, such as red meat intake, to affect cancer risk.
Researchers have discovered a combination of two drugs that target both the MAPK and PI3K signaling pathways, resulting in more effective killing of colorectal cancer cells. The dual approach overcomes the limitations of individual drug treatments, showing promise for treating laboratory models of colorectal cancer.
A multi-centre clinical trial suggests that a combination of three targeted drugs may be more effective than one drug for certain patients with advanced BRAF-mutated colorectal cancer. The treatment, which includes encorafenib, cetuximab, and alpelisib, showed improved efficacy and extended progression-free survival in patients.
A $7.6 million grant supports the validation of molecular tests for early detection of colorectal cancer, aiming to reduce mortality rates. The international Dream Team will focus on developing a blood test to identify patients who can benefit from chemotherapy after surgery.
Researchers found no significant reduction in cardiovascular events, but a lower incidence of nonfatal heart attack and transient ischemic attack. Aspirin increased the risk of extracranial hemorrhage requiring hospitalization.
A new study by American Cancer Society researchers found that more preventable deaths from colorectal cancer occur in southern states due to socioeconomic inequalities. The report highlights the importance of addressing disparities in education, income, and access to screening and treatment services.
Researchers found that the current classification system for colorectal cancer cannot be used to predict drug responses to FOLFIRI. The study suggests that a new approach is needed to make informed treatment decisions.
According to a randomized trial, nurse navigators can aid in colon cancer screening follow-up by increasing follow-up rates exceeding 92 percent. The study, led by Beverly B. Green, MD, MPH, found that combining a systems approach with nurse navigation resulted in improved follow-up rates.
The incidence of colorectal cancer in people under 50 has increased, while those over 50 have seen a decline. The study found that the CRC incidence rate declined overall between 1975 and 2010, but rose among young adults, with the biggest increase seen in patients 20-34 years old.
NSAIDs protect against colorectal cancer by inducing cell suicide pathways in intestinal stem cells carrying a mutated gene. The research team found that NSAIDs activate the so-called death receptor pathway, selectively triggering a suicide program in dysfunctional cells. This mechanism could help design new drugs to prevent colon cancer.
A new study suggests fecal immunochemical tests (FIT) can detect all colorectal cancers and 61% of advanced adenomas, similar to colonoscopy screening. FIT may offer a less invasive option for high-risk individuals with familial colorectal cancer.
Two studies found pediatric breast cancer patients experienced longer time between diagnosis and treatments, often diagnosed at later stages. Pediatric colon cancer patients had lower five-year survival rates than adults due to more aggressive tumors and treatments.
Researchers identified RNF43 mutations in 20% of colorectal and endometrial cancers, suggesting a potential biomarker for targeted treatments. The mutation affects the Wnt signaling pathway, making tumors sensitive to new inhibitors currently in clinical trials.
A study examined hospital readmission rates after colorectal cancer surgery and found that when adjusting for patient characteristics, coexisting illnesses, and operation types, there was no significant variation in readmission rates. The overall 30-day readmission rate was 12.3 percent.
A new study using LSU Health New Orleans data found Acadian parishes in Louisiana have the highest colorectal cancer rates among nation's founder populations. The Cajun population, with limited genetic variation, may be linked to the high risk of disease.
Researchers found that combining five key healthy lifestyle behaviors - a healthy weight, low abdominal fat, regular physical activity, not smoking, and a balanced diet high in fruits and fiber - reduces the risk of bowel cancer. The study analyzed data from 347,237 men and women over 12 years and found a significant decrease in risk f...
Fruit fly research reveals that a transcription factor called Mirror regulates tumour-like growth in the intestines. A similar system may be at work in humans, suggesting a potential role for Irx transcription factors in cancer progression. This study could lead to new treatments using the fruit fly model.
A recent study published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine found that healthy Americans who undergo colonoscopies do so too frequently, with many receiving repeat screenings long before they should. The study suggests that endoscopists should adhere to national guidelines more closely.
A study found that endoscopists recommended shorter follow-up intervals than guidelines support, resulting in frequent colonoscopy overuse. This leads to potential excess healthcare spending of $1 million or more per year.
Biennial colorectal cancer screening in France's Cote-D'Or region increased the rate of diagnosis of high-risk pre-cancerous adenomas by 89%. The study also found that fecal occult blood testing may be more efficient than colonoscopy for high-risk patients.
The US Multi-Society Task Force on Colorectal Cancer released new consensus guidelines highlighting the importance of good bowel cleansing for high-quality colonoscopy. The guidelines aim to reduce missed precancerous lesions and increase patient safety, with an 85% target for adequate cleansing rate.
Researchers have identified 5 genes differentially expressed in normal accompanying cells of colorectal tumors. These genes can be used to classify tumors and predict patient outcomes, enabling clinicians to make informed decisions about chemotherapy treatment.
The pilot program aims to increase colorectal cancer screening rates and follow-up care for patients served by community health centers. Nine national medical professional societies will join forces with the National Association of Community Health Centers and other organizations to support the effort.
A study by researchers at the University of Kansas reveals a new function for APC in protecting against chronic colitis-induced inflammation and tumor development. The team found that functional nuclear APC is necessary to suppress Wnt signaling pathway, controlling goblet cell differentiation.
A recent study found that flexible sigmoidoscopy screening significantly reduced the incidence of colorectal cancer by 20% and mortality rate by 27%, compared to no screening. The screening method was effective in reducing the risk of colorectal cancer, regardless of age group.
Researchers found that gut microbiome analysis successfully distinguished healthy individuals from those with precancerous adenomatous polyps and invasive colorectal cancer. The composition of the gut microbiome was different for each group, leading to improved prediction of colorectal cancer presence.
African Americans in a VA health-care network have low participation in colorectal cancer screening, despite similar access to care. The study found that individuals with established primary care were nearly four times more likely to have had at least one CRC screening test.
The US Multi-Society Task Force on Colorectal Cancer recommends genetic testing of tumors for all newly diagnosed colorectal cancer patients with a familial risk of the disease. Genetic testing can confirm the diagnosis of Lynch syndrome and direct management for affected individuals, as well as family members.
A new study suggests that consuming resistant starch alongside red meat can lower the risk of colorectal cancer. The study found that butyrated resistant starch reduced levels of certain genetic molecules associated with cell proliferation and increased risk of cancer.
A team of geneticists decodes the role of non-coding DNA in colorectal cancer, identifying two types of mutations that contribute to disease progression. The study reveals the importance of non-coding regions in regulating gene expression and suggests a new approach for understanding the genetics behind various cancers.
A Vanderbilt University-led team has identified protein 'signatures' of genetic mutations that drive colorectal cancer. The study's findings may lead to new advances in diagnosing and treating the disease by identifying patients who would benefit most from chemotherapy after surgery.
A new study reveals that gut microbes metabolize carbohydrates, causing intestinal cell proliferation and tumor formation in mice genetically predisposed to colorectal cancer. Treatment with antibiotics or a low-carbohydrate diet significantly reduced tumors, suggesting these interventions could prevent this type of cancer in humans.
The phase III RECOURSE trial found that TAS-102 improves overall and progression-free survival in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer refractory to standard therapies. The study showed a median overall survival of 7.1 months for TAS-102, compared to 5.3 months for placebo.
A study of adoptees found that genetics play a significant role in the development of these three types of cancer. The risk was 80% higher when an adoptee had at least one biological parent with the same cancer.
A study published in JNCI: Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that a shorter time to first cigarette (TTFC) is associated with an increased risk of lung cancer in both heavy and light smokers. The researchers analyzed data from over 3,200 current and former smokers, revealing that TTFC was statistically significantly higher...
A growing number of colorectal cancer deaths in Europe necessitates an increase in nurse endoscopy training, with regular screening reducing the risk by 20-30%. UEG and ESGENA are working together to standardize training requirements and improve workforce availability.
Researchers propose mailing fecal immunochemical tests to improve colon cancer screening rates among low-income communities, where disparities are most prevalent. Follow-up diagnostic colonoscopies often face cost barriers, which exacerbate existing health inequities.
A new study by Northwestern University found that community-based outreach programs can significantly increase colorectal cancer screening rates among low-income and minority populations. By using a combination of automated reminders, mailed letters, phone calls, and personal outreach, the program was able to nearly double screening ra...
A multipart intervention increased adherence to annual fecal occult blood testing for colorectal cancer screening, particularly among vulnerable populations. The study found that 82.2% of patients who received the intervention completed screening compared to 37.3% of those in usual care.
A new class of tumor-targeting agents can seek out and find dozens of solid tumors, even illuminating brain cancer stem cells that resist current treatments. The agents deliver two types of payloads directly to cancer cells, resulting in direct imaging or treatment.
A study found that colorectal cancer rates declined significantly after increasing cancer screening tests. The incidence of late-stage and early-stage cancers decreased, resulting in a reduction of 550,000 cancers during the period.
The number of cancer survivors in the US is expected to grow from 14.5 million to almost 19 million by 2024 due to an aging population and improved treatment outcomes. The majority of cancer survivors were diagnosed five or more years prior, with nearly half aged 70 or older.
A combination therapy of vermurafenib, cetuximab and irinotecan has shown significant improvements in patients with advanced colorectal cancer, achieving a 50% response rate in an early Phase I trial. The treatment targets BRAF-mutated patients who have previously shown poor response rates to single-agent therapies.
Individuals with poor kidney function have a higher risk of developing kidney and urothelial cancers, according to a recent study. The study found that those with lower estimated glomerular filtration rates (eGFR) had a significant increase in cancer risk, particularly for renal cell carcinoma.
A recent study highlights the challenges faced by refugees from Iraq and Syria in accessing affordable cancer treatment, with host countries struggling to find the money and medicine. Innovative financing schemes are needed to improve access to quality care for these patients.