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Progression-free survival triples in select metastatic lung cancer patients with surgery or radiation after standard chemotherapy

A new study led by MD Anderson Cancer Center found an eight-month progression-free survival benefit in patients treated with local consolidative therapy, a significant shift in clinical care for thousands of lung cancer patients. The treatment improved outcomes for those with oligometastases, defined as three or fewer sites of metastasis.

How does robotic video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery compare to VATS for treating lung cancer?

A new study published in Journal of Laparoendoscopic & Advanced Surgical Techniques shows that robotic video-assisted lung resection achieves comparable outcomes to conventional VATS and preserves more healthy lung tissue. The robotic approach allows for fewer conversions to open thoracotomy and more lymph nodes retrieved for testing.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalJournal of Laparoendoscopic & Advanced Surgical Techniques·DateMay 10, 2016

Cancer may drive health problems as people age

A new study found that cancer increases the risk for certain health issues beyond normal aging, including declines in activities of daily living and physical function. However, having a cancer diagnosis did not increase the likelihood of developing arthritis or vision/hearing problems, and did not exacerbate existing conditions.

SourceWiley·JournalCancer·DateMay 9, 2016

Study finds racial differences in smoking patterns, screening

New research reveals that African Americans are less likely to start smoking in late teens but continue smoking into later years, leading to lower average pack-years and reduced eligibility for lung cancer screening. This disparity results in higher risk of death from tobacco-related diseases among African Americans.

SourceYale University·JournalNicotine & Tobacco Research·DateMar 15, 2016

Lung cancer screening: New Canadian guideline

Adults aged 55-74 with a history of current or former smoking and 30+ pack-years are advised to undergo annual low-dose CT scans up to three times. This guideline aims to detect lung cancer at an early stage, reducing serious illness and death. Screening should be conducted in healthcare settings with expertise in diagnosing lung cancer.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateMar 7, 2016

Clinician communication reduced distress related to the detection of incidental nodules

A cross-sectional survey found that detailed clinician communication can alleviate patient distress associated with incidental pulmonary nodules. Patients who received accurate information about their nodule size and diagnosis had a more reassuring experience, reducing anxiety and improving overall well-being.

SourceInternational Association for the Study of Lung Cancer·JournalJournal of Thoracic Oncology·DateMar 7, 2016

Are lung cancer survivors getting too many costly scans for no reason? Study suggests so

A national look at PET scan use for lung and esophageal cancer survivors found widespread variation between hospitals, with some using scans eight times more often than others. The study suggests that this approach doesn't improve survival rates and is being inappropriately used at many hospitals.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateFeb 22, 2016