Research on colorectal and bowel cancer. Covers AI-audited colonoscopy, gut-bacteria links, family risk, and early-onset differences.
During the US economic recession, continuously insured Americans underwent fewer screening colonoscopies due to increased direct out-of-pocket costs. This reduction in screenings was observed across all age groups, with a notable impact on those aged 50-64.
Repeated flexible sigmoidoscopy screenings increased the detection of colorectal cancer or advanced adenoma in participants by 26% and 34%, respectively. This improvement comes with a higher cost and increased need for diagnostic interventions.
A new study found that many cancer patients continue to smoke after diagnosis, with 39% of lung cancer and 14% of colorectal cancer patients smoking at diagnosis. Factors such as insurance, emotional support, and education level can predict continued smoking in these patients.
Researchers found that prostaglandin E2 accelerates colorectal cancer development by silencing tumor-suppressing genes and increasing DNA methylation. Combining anti-inflammatory and demethylating agents reduced tumors by up to 93% in mice with colorectal cancer.
A new, investigational colorectal cancer screening test developed by Mayo Clinic and Exact Sciences Inc. has shown highly accurate results in detecting precancerous tumors and early-stage cancer, improving the chances of better outcomes for patients. The test is noninvasive, patient-friendly, and requires no bowel preparation or diet c...
Researchers found that regorafenib slowed tumor progression and lengthened patient lives by 29% compared to placebo. The median survival time increased from 5 months to 6.5 months, with a 23% reduced risk of cancer-related death.
A new study found that while colorectal cancer mortality rates decreased in both African Americans and whites over the past two decades, the rate of decrease was smaller among African Americans. For distant stage disease, the decline was 32.6% for African Americans versus 4.6% for whites.
A Phase 2 trial found that combining bevacizumab with chemoradiation therapy can reduce the spread of nasopharyngeal carcinoma and improve survival rates. The study showed over 90% of patients survived two years without distant metastases.
A recent study found that elevated blood sugar levels are associated with an increased risk of colorectal cancer in postmenopausal women. Researchers observed nearly 5,000 women over 12 years and discovered that those with higher glucose levels were more likely to develop the disease.
A study published in The Lancet Oncology found that CT colonography significantly increased participation in colorectal cancer screening, with a more than 50% increase compared to traditional colonoscopy. This non-invasive technique has the potential to positively impact overall patient outcomes and reduce complications and costs.
A study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that fecal immunochemical testing (FIT) is more effective than guaiac fecal occult blood testing (gFOBT) in colonoscopy screenings, increasing attendance and diagnostic yield while reducing false positives. FIT is also cost-effective and clinically beneficial for d...
A study used the Sleeping Beauty transposon system to profile genes driving colorectal cancer, identifying over 200 genes that can be disrupted. These findings provide strong evidence for driver mutations in human tumours and lay the foundation for more effective targeted treatments.
A new study found that structured endoscopist training can significantly improve detection of pre-cancerous growths in the colon. Researchers identified several high-risk sub-groups, including Non-Hispanic Blacks, females, and patients over age 60, who are more likely to develop aggressive proximal colorectal cancers.
Current and former smokers face impaired pancreatic duct cell function and increased risk of colorectal cancer, even after quitting. Women are more susceptible to these risks than men, highlighting the need for early smoking cessation as part of treatment plans.
A new study has found that listening to Mozart while performing colonoscopy can increase adenoma detection rates in physicians. The study, which used a randomized controlled trial, compared music with no music and found significant improvements in adenoma detection rates for two endoscopists.
Researchers at Mayo Clinic found that a two-hour focused training significantly increased the ability of physicians to detect precancerous polyps in the colon. The study suggests new educational methods could increase colorectal cancer detection rates and reduce cancer deaths.
A randomized controlled trial has shown that long-term use of aspirin can reduce colorectal cancer incidence by over 60% in patients at genetically increased risk. The study involved nearly 1,000 patients with Lynch Syndrome and found a significant reduction in cancer incidence after five years of aspirin treatment.
A study found that a specific dietary pattern, characterized by high red meat and fish intake, sugar-sweetened beverages, and low coffee and whole grain consumption, may increase a woman's risk for colorectal cancer. This pattern was associated with higher levels of C-peptide in the blood, which can promote cell growth and multiplication.
Postmenopausal women who used nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for at least 10 years had a significantly lower risk of death from colorectal cancer compared to those who did not use these medications. The study found that consistent NSAID use over time was associated with a 30% lower rate of colorectal cancer mortality.
Fecal immunochemical testing (FIT) is an accurate predictor of colorectal cancer, but it remains inferior to colonoscopy for prevention. Yearly FIT screenings may allow treatment to follow closely on the heels of discovery, but practices with repeat testing over time perform poorly.
Researchers have discovered strikingly high levels of Fusobacterium in colorectal tumors, suggesting a potential role in the disease. The findings offer an enticing lead for further research into diagnosing, preventing, and treating colon cancer.
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.
Studies reveal the role of Sirt1 in improving insulin sensitivity through caloric restriction. Researchers also identify a potential treatment approach for KRAS mutant colorectal cancers by combining receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors with MEK inhibitors. Additionally, new insights into the cellular defects of Huntington disease are p...
The UT Southwestern-Parkland PROSPR Center aims to optimize colon cancer screening among Dallas residents, particularly those lacking insurance or underinsured. The partnership seeks to develop a model for screening that can be used by public hospitals nationwide.
Researchers identified a potential combination therapy to effectively use receptor tyrosine kinases inhibitors for KRAS mutant colorectal cancers by combining with MEK/ERK signaling pathway inhibitors. This approach could offer new treatment options for individuals with KRAS mutant cancers.
A meta-analysis of 22 studies from around the world found a strong association between alcohol consumption and an increased risk of colorectal cancer. The study suggests that even moderate drinking can increase the risk, particularly at higher levels of consumption.
Researchers at Vanderbilt University School of Medicine found that BVES regulates EMT in human colon cancer cells and is silenced via promoter methylation in human colorectal carcinoma. Restoring BVES expression decreased cancer cell characteristics.
Researchers will focus on predictive molecular signatures and biomarkers to screen high-risk populations and provide effective treatment strategies. The collaboration aims to improve patient outcomes and reduce costs in the fight against colorectal cancer.
The UT Southwestern program identifies families with a high risk of colorectal cancer through tumor testing. Up to 50 family members can be tested for the Lynch syndrome, which carries an 80% risk of developing colon cancer.
A single flexible sigmoidoscopy screening between ages 55-64 is associated with lower colorectal cancer (CRC) incidence and mortality. The study found that CRC incidence was reduced by 31% among those screened, and CRC mortality was significantly reduced by 38%.
Researchers found that testing for Lynch Syndrome in all colorectal cancer patients is cost-effective and can help identify families at risk. Antiretroviral therapy also increased life expectancy for HIV patients in Africa to nearly normal levels, with men showing lower survival rates than women. In contrast, low health literacy was li...
Research found substantial changes in cancer family history between ages 30-50, leading to recommendations for earlier or more intense screening. Updates to family history should occur every 5-10 years to inform risk assessments and screening guidelines.
A new study found large state disparities in progress against colorectal cancer, with the Northeast making significant gains while Southern states lagged behind. The study suggests that improving screening rates through targeted initiatives could help reduce the burden of CRC in these states.
A USC team identified a genetic marker that predicts patient response to cetuximab-based therapy for locally advanced rectal cancer. The study found that 45% of patients with a specific EGF61 variant emerged disease-free after treatment.
A new study found that high folate intake is associated with lower risk of colorectal cancer. The strongest association was with total folate intake, which includes naturally occurring food folate and folic acid from fortified foods and dietary supplements.
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.
Researchers found a correlation between FAP and abnormal blood vessel density in the oral mucosa, suggesting a potential screening test. The study used a device to measure vascular density in patients with FAP and controls, showing higher values in FAP patients, which could indicate an alternative marker for colon cancer risk.
A new study found that colonoscopies done with suboptimal bowel preparation are associated with relatively high adenoma miss rates, indicating a decrease in colonoscopy effectiveness. The study suggests that early repeat colonoscopies may be necessary to ensure accurate detection and removal of precancerous polyps.
A study published in Cancer Research found a link between the ABCB5 marker and treatment resistance in colorectal cancers. The researchers discovered that eliminating cells expressing ABCB5 is crucial for successful treatment, supporting the cancer stem cell hypothesis. This finding has significant translational and therapeutic relevance.
A large study found that carrying the FVL gene variant substantially increases the risk of colorectal cancer, with a six-fold increase in risk compared to those without the variant. Another gene variant of clotting factor XIII was also associated with a 15% lower risk of bowel cancer.
Researchers develop a new therapy to prime tumors before radiotherapy, reducing damage to healthy tissue. The treatment shows effective targeting of tumors with minimal side effects.
A study published in JAMA found that delays in starting adjuvant chemotherapy after colorectal cancer surgery are associated with poorer survival outcomes. The research suggests that clinicians should prioritize timely access to chemotherapy to improve patient outcomes.
Long-term risks of subsequent primary neoplasms were investigated in childhood cancer survivors, with digestive and genitourinary neoplasms showing the highest absolute excess risks. The study found a 3- to 6-fold increased risk for survivors compared to expected rates.
A randomized, controlled trial found that patient navigators can significantly improve CRC screening rates among low-income, black, and non-English-speaking patients. The study suggests that focusing on these populations with patient navigation may be an effective approach to reducing screening disparities.
Researchers found that targeting patient navigation to black and non-English speaking patients increased CRC screenings by 33.6% compared to usual care. These patients were also more likely to undergo colonoscopy and have adenomas detected.
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.
Mayo Clinic researchers developed a protocol that increased testing for Lynch syndrome by nearly 90%, helping doctors make informed decisions on care timing and delivery. The testing caught 11% of MSI-H tumors that would have been missed, improving early cancer detection.
Researchers found that even those with low faecal haemoglobin concentrations are at increased risk of developing colorectal cancer. Higher initial faecal haemoglobin concentration is linked to a greater likelihood of developing the disease.
Researchers found unhealthy substance use is a barrier to completing recommended preventive services, including mammograms and flu shots. The study suggests targeting individuals with substance use problems for tailored interventions to improve service adherence.
A study found that elderly patients can participate in clinical trials and benefit from chemotherapy if they are active, have less widespread cancer, and fewer symptoms. The 'FOCUS2' trial showed that reduced-dose chemotherapy is effective for frail and elderly patients with advanced colorectal cancer
Research at DDW 2011 reveals colonoscopy is effective in preventing and detecting colorectal cancer, but disparities persist among lower socioeconomic groups. Ambulatory surgical centers provide safe alternatives to hospitals for screening colonoscopies, while the administration method may impact patient outcomes.
Chronic diseases are a major concern in Brazil, driven by increasing prevalence of risk factors such as obesity, hypertension, and diabetes. The country has made significant progress in combating non-communicable diseases (NCDs), with age-standardised mortality rates declining by 1.8% per year since 1996.
A study found that colonoscopies were performed more frequently than recommended in some older Medicare beneficiaries, while others went without necessary follow-ups. The researchers suggest that closer attention to screening rates is needed to ensure the procedure is reserved for those who can benefit from it.
A study found that black Americans are more willing to spend all their personal finances on cancer treatment to extend life, compared to whites. This discovery highlights the importance of understanding patients' financial decisions in delivering high-quality care.
A new study found that Blacks are most willing to use up all personal financial resources to prolong life after lung or colorectal cancer diagnosis. Hispanic and Asian patients showed intermediate preferences. Factors influencing willingness include age, social support, and marital status.
Activation of CTNNB1 biomarker is associated with better survival rates among obese patients with colorectal cancer, while physical activity improves survival for those without CTNNB1 activation. The study suggests a possible interactive effect between tumor CTNNB1 signaling and energy balance status on tumor cell behavior.
A novel potential drug-target for colorectal cancer treatment has been identified in a brain-derived protein. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is present in greater amounts in colorectal tumors and may be involved in CRC progression and resistance to drugs.
Researchers at U-M Comprehensive Cancer Center found that PARP inhibitors, currently used for breast and ovarian cancers, can also work against colorectal tumors with MRE11 gene mutations. The study suggests targeting these patients specifically could be a new therapeutic approach.
Engineered gold nanoparticles have been shown to be non-toxic when administered by two alternative routes in mice, suggesting they may be safe for human use. The particles are designed to detect cancer-lesion sites with high sensitivity and could lead to early disease detection.
CTC utilization has tripled in recent years, increasing access to colorectal cancer screening, and potentially saving lives through early detection of disease. The study suggests an opportunity for more people to be screened due to CTC's alternative to conventional optical colonoscopy.