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BRCA2 mutations may be associated with some hereditary pancreatic cancers

Researchers identified BRCA2 germline mutations in 19% of families with familial pancreatic cancer. The presence of specific frameshift mutations was found in 12% of the families studied. These findings suggest an important role for BRCA2 mutations in a subpopulation of families with familial pancreatic cancer.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateFeb 4, 2003

Aspirin may help prevent pancreatic cancer

A study of over 7 years found that women taking aspirin two to five times per week had a lower risk of pancreatic cancer compared to those not taking it. The researchers estimate that aspirin use might prevent up to 43% of pancreatic cancer cases in women who do not normally take aspirin.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateAug 6, 2002

Other highlights in the Feb. 20 issue of JNCI

African-American patients with non-small-cell lung cancer have a significantly lower one-year survival rate compared to non-African-American patients. Despite similar disease stages and health care disparities, researchers found no difference in outcomes after adjusting for factors such as performance status and socioeconomic status.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateFeb 19, 2002

Other highlights in the Jan. 16 issue of JNCI

Researchers investigate DNA repair capacity and its association with melanoma risk, while also exploring the predictive value of HPV testing in managing equivocal Pap tests. Additionally, a study on breast cancer biomarkers finds that measuring uPA and PAI-1 levels may help predict disease course and inform treatment strategies.

SourceJournal of the National Cancer Institute·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateJan 15, 2002

Two genes are better than one: Combination approach selectively kills pancreatic cancer cells

Researchers at Columbia University Irving Medical Center have discovered a combination of two genes that selectively kill pancreatic cancer cells in test tube experiments. The mda-7 protein and K-ras antisense DNA combination prevents tumor growth in animals, offering a potential new treatment option for this aggressive disease.

SourceColumbia University Irving Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 28, 2001