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Economic burden of cancer extends into survivorship

A new study found cancer survivors in the US experience significant annual economic burdens, with nonelderly colorectal and breast cancer survivors facing substantial excess medical expenditures and employment disability. Elderly survivors have lower but still notable economic burdens, highlighting varying impact by age group and cance...

Keep moving, studies advise cancer survivors

Studies published in Journal of Cancer Survivorship found that walking three hours a week can improve hormone functioning and vitality in prostate cancer survivors. Regular physical activity also reduces symptoms of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy in colorectal cancer survivors, improving quality of life.

SourceSpringer·JournalJournal of Cancer Survivorship·DateApr 16, 2015

Cancer prevention efforts in the US a mixed bag

The American Cancer Society's new report highlights disparities in cancer prevention and early detection efforts, including underutilized screening for colorectal and cervical cancers. Meanwhile, tobacco use remains a major cause of preventable disease and premature death, with wide variation by education and race/ethnicity.

New insights into survival outcomes of Asian-Americans diagnosed with cancer

A new study from Brigham and Women's Hospital found that Asian-Americans diagnosed with cancer have significantly lower cancer-specific mortality rates compared to non-Hispanic white patients. The study analyzed data from over 2.5 million patients and broke down the population into eight subgroups, revealing variations in survival rate...

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateMar 23, 2015

How our DNA may prevent bowel cancer

Researchers from the University of Melbourne found that genetic variation affects the protective effect of aspirin on bowel cancer risk. The study analyzed data from 8,624 participants and found that about 1 in 25 people do not benefit from taking aspirin, potentially increasing their risk.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalJAMA·DateMar 23, 2015

Global studies in Health Affairs' March issue

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.

SourceHealth Affairs·JournalHealth Affairs·DateMar 3, 2015

Cancer screening concerns

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.

SourceQueen's University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 26, 2015

Tumor location in colorectal cancer may influence survival

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.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateFeb 24, 2015

Can inhaled oxygen cause cancer?

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.

SourcePeerJ·JournalPeerJ·DateJan 13, 2015

Researchers identify new gene mutations linked to colorectal cancer in African-Americans

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.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 12, 2015

Bacterial 'bunches' linked to some colorectal cancers

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.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 16, 2014

Study recommends GPs should be more open when referring patients for cancer investigations

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.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalBritish Journal of General Practice·DateDec 16, 2014

NSAIDs prevent colon cancer by inducing death of intestinal stem cells that have mutation

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.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 3, 2014