Cancer Patients
Articles tagged with Cancer Patients
American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) to host Annual Meeting in Boston, September 26-30
Screening modestly reduces prostate cancer deaths
Ivermectin-benzimidazole prescribing following celebrity endorsement
A recent study found that ivermectin-benzimidazole prescribing increased rapidly following a celebrity endorsement in January 2025. This trend was particularly concerning among patients with cancer who may delay conventional treatments for unproven therapies, potentially worsening their disease progression.
Rethinking bladder cancer surveillance: Can fewer procedures be just as effective?
ERASur colorectal cancer trial reaches one-third patient accrual milestone
The ERASur clinical trial is investigating whether total ablative therapy can improve overall survival in patients with newly diagnosed, limited metastatic colorectal cancer. The study has reached one-third patient accrual milestone, signaling strong momentum.
Trial now enrolling seeks to answer key question: Does adding chemotherapy to hormone therapy improve survival for metastatic prostate cancer?
The ASPIRE trial aims to enroll 1,200 participants with advanced prostate cancer and assess the impact of chemotherapy on overall survival and disease progression. Genetic profiling is included to identify patients who benefit most from intensified treatment.
Retrieval-augmented AI may improve accuracy and trust in oncology applications
The review highlights how retrieval-augmented generation can improve the accuracy, transparency, and clinical reliability of AI tools in cancer care. RAG-enhanced systems produced more accurate results than standard AI models across multiple studies.
The benefits of prostate cancer screening outweigh the harms, according to new patient guidelines from NCCN
The new NCCN Guidelines for Patients: Prostate Cancer Screening provide a comprehensive guide to evidence-based recommendations for age-specific screening. The guidelines aim to balance the benefits of early detection with the risks of unnecessary procedures, emphasizing the importance of personalized care and monitoring.
Lifestyle, diet, and clinical factors shape the gut microbiome in cancer patients
A new review found that lifestyle behaviors like physical activity and diet can positively modulate the gut microbiome of cancer patients, but these effects are often influenced by non-modifiable variables. The study also highlighted the role of intrinsic patient characteristics in shaping microbial composition.
Targeted therapy drug shows early promise against KRAS-driven lung and pancreatic cancers
A first-in-human clinical trial found that setidegrasib, a targeted therapy drug, demonstrated early antitumor activity in advanced lung and pancreatic cancers. The therapy shrank tumors and delayed disease progression in some patients, providing a potential new treatment approach for KRAS G12D-driven cancers.
Mail-in test for colorectal cancer could help community health centers increase screening
Researchers found that a newer stool-based screening test, FIT-DNA, increased completion rates among participants from community health centers. However, follow-up colonoscopy tests remained low, highlighting the need for continued support and access to diagnostic services.
Alliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology supports April Head and Neck Awareness Month
The Alliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology has several active trials specifically designed to help people with head and neck cancers. Trials include testing high-dose prophylactic gabapentin to prevent opioid use during treatment, as well as immunotherapy with nivolumab and cabozantinib for mucosal melanoma and nasopharyngeal carcino...
Clinical trial aims to address vaginal complaints after breast cancer diagnosis
A clinical trial aims to evaluate whether laser therapy reduces vaginal dryness caused by breast cancer treatment. The study, REVITALIZE, plans to enroll approximately 250 women with a history of breast cancer who experience moderate to severe vaginal dryness.
AACR: Targeted drug delivery for colorectal cancer, COVID-19’s impact on breast cancer outcomes, AI in cancer diagnosis and more
UCLA investigators present new research on targeted drug delivery for colorectal cancer, COVID-19's impact on breast cancer outcomes, and AI in cancer diagnosis. These studies offer insights into overcoming drug resistance, enhancing immune responses, and improving outcomes for patients with difficult-to-treat cancers.
NCCN announces first fellows for new advocacy academy to help drive effective cancer policy
The NCCN Advocacy Academy connects oncology professionals with policymakers to drive evidence-based cancer policy. The program aims to cultivate policy leadership skills among emerging scientists and care providers.
JMIR Publications showcases precision oncology success: individualized multi-drug therapy outperforms standard care
A new article in JMIR Publications showcases precision oncology's success, where individualized multi-drug regimens improve treatment responses and survival rates for patients with advanced cancers. The study found that closely matching drug therapies to tumor mutations leads to better outcomes, while also offering a safer profile.
Five childhood cancer research priorities receive no funding despite being chosen by children and families
A recent report found that only two out of 23 identified priorities for childhood cancer research received dedicated UK funding. Five key areas, including improving hospital experiences and addressing emotional wellbeing, were overlooked entirely. The study highlights a significant gap between patient needs and research funding.
European project brings AI-powered cancer genome interpretation closer to the clinic
The European project CGI-Clinics brings AI-powered Cancer Genome Interpreter (CGI) closer to clinical applications, enabling reliable and scalable tumour genome interpretation in precision oncology. The platform leverages machine learning to transform complex genomic data into actionable insights.
Bleeding events largely outnumber thromboembolic events in patients with cancer during the last phase of life, most patients continue antithrombotic therapy
A study found that cancer patients during the last phase of life experienced more bleeding events than thromboembolic events. Most patients continued their antithrombotic therapy despite increased bleeding risk, with over 28% experiencing at least one bleeding episode.
New alliance clinical trial aims to improve outcomes in brain tumors
A new clinical trial will investigate whether adding the oral medication vorasidenib to standard chemotherapy improves progression-free survival for people with newly-diagnosed, grade 3 IDH-mutant astrocytoma. The study aims to recruit 400 individuals with this type of brain cancer and evaluate the safety and side-effect profile of the...
The cost of survival: Women more likely to survive cancer but suffer more severe side effects
A recent study found that women have a 21% lower risk of death compared to men, but a 12% higher risk of severe side effects from cancer treatment. The research, conducted in partnership with international collaborators, analyzed data from over 20,000 cancer patients and identified sex-based differences in survival and treatment toxicity.
Bilingual forms improve cancer treatment understanding among people with limited English
A new study found that bilingual consent forms significantly improve cancer treatment understanding among people with limited English, with understanding rising from 35% to 60%. The study, published in Supportive Care in Cancer, examined the impact of different translation approaches on cancer treatment understanding among Bengali- and...
Structured exercise programs may help combat “chemo brain” according to new study in JNCCN
Researchers found that patients who followed an exercise prescription while receiving chemotherapy reported fewer problems with thinking and memory and felt less mentally tired. The study suggests that exercise may help people with cancer stay mentally sharp and better able to handle daily tasks.
Scan that makes prostate cancer cells glow could cut need for biopsies
A new imaging test, PSMA PET/CT scan, has been shown to safely reduce the number of biopsies needed for suspected prostate cancer, with no harm to patients. The PRIMARY2 trial found that the scan could identify low-risk patients who did not need a biopsy, while targeting suspicious areas for those who did.
Severe COVID-19, flu facilitate lung cancer months or years later, new research shows
Severe COVID-19 and influenza infections can prime the lungs for cancer development, according to new research. Vaccination, however, largely prevents these changes, suggesting a reduced risk of lung cancer.
Alliance trial aims to improve outcomes for chronic lymphocytic leukemia
The Alliance trial explores the combination of zanubrutinib and sonrotoclax for CLL treatment, aiming to send cancer into remission and allow patients to stop treatment earlier. The study has the potential to be life-changing for patients and their families, reducing the burden of ongoing therapy and improving quality of life.
Discovery about aging and cancer opens the door to better targeted treatments
Researchers at the University of Gothenburg have identified a protein, ATF4, linked to increased metastasis and recurrence in lung cancer. The study reveals that older individuals' tumors are smaller and grow more slowly, yet more likely to have spread when detected.
New survey highlights the role of Clinical Practice Guidelines to improve care for patients with rare cancers
A recent survey highlights the importance of Clinical Practice Guidelines in managing rare cancers, with strong overall uptake but inconsistent use for diagnosis and research purposes. High guideline adherence is linked to tangible survival benefits, such as reduced mortality and improved outcomes in various rare tumour types.
New trial seeks to improve sharing of genetic colorectal cancer risks
A new clinical study aims to improve communication between patients and families about genetic risks of colorectal cancer. The trial will compare two methods of sharing genetic test results with close relatives, with the goal of learning which approach helps more family members get necessary genetic testing.
$10 million gift establishes the King Center for Lynch Syndrome at Penn Medicine
The King Center for Lynch Syndrome will advance research, outreach, education, and patient care for Lynch syndrome, a hereditary condition affecting 1 in 279 individuals. The center will provide cutting-edge research, life-long comprehensive care, and increased awareness for patients and families affected by Lynch syndrome.
Renowned cancer physician and researcher Dr. Daniela Matei to lead Houston Methodist Neal Cancer Center
Renowned cancer clinician Dr. Daniela Matei will lead the Houston Methodist Dr. Mary and Ron Neal Cancer Center, bringing expertise in ovarian cancer treatment and therapeutics. She aims to bridge laboratory science to the clinic, advancing new concepts from bench to bedside.
Does mental health affect mortality risk in adults with cancer?
A recent study published in CANCER found that adults with cancer who developed mental health conditions within the first year after diagnosis had a significantly higher likelihood of dying over the next few years. The analysis of data from University of California-affiliated hospitals revealed a 51% increased risk of death among those ...
Screening improves early detection of colorectal cancer
Researchers found that both screening methods lead to more cases of early-stage cancer being detected, especially in the first two years. The study suggests that screening may have a preventive effect by removing precursors to cancer.
New guidelines from NCCN detail fundamental differences in cancer in children compared to adults
The National Comprehensive Cancer Network has published new guidelines for Pediatric Soft Tissue Sarcomas, highlighting the unique characteristics of this childhood cancer. The guidelines focus on rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS), a subtype with varying genetic changes that influence treatment outcomes.
Leisure-time physical activity and cancer mortality among cancer survivors
A study of six pooled cohorts found that moderate to vigorous physical activity after a cancer diagnosis is associated with reduced risk of cancer mortality. Higher levels of physical activity were linked to longer survival rates and overall health benefits for cancer survivors.
Scientists now know why ovarian cancer spreads so rapidly in the abdomen
Ovarian cancer cells recruit protective mesothelial cells in abdominal fluid to form hybrid cell clusters that resist chemotherapy. These clusters use spike-like structures called invadopodia to invade surrounding tissue. The discovery opens new treatment possibilities and could help doctors monitor disease progression.
Personalized palliative care shows signs of improving quality of life for children with advanced cancer
A Mass General Brigham-led study found that integrating feedback and personalized palliative care can improve the quality of life for children with advanced cancer. The study showed significant improvements in symptoms and well-being for patients who received the intervention, highlighting the potential benefits of early palliative care.
Novel laser therapy device generates promising results in prostate cancer clinical trial
A clinical trial has shown that a novel cooled laser focal therapy device can effectively treat prostate cancer with minimal side effects. The treatment provided similar cancer-related outcomes to traditional methods but with an improved safety profile and low rates of incontinence.
New international study shows access to patient-reported outcome data improves the consistency of the evaluation of cancer treatment adverse events
A large multinational clinical trial found that giving healthcare providers access to patient-reported outcome (PRO) data significantly improves the consistency of how treatment-related side effects are assessed in patients with cancer. This study highlights the importance of integrating the patient's voice into routine clinical evalua...
Research to expand options for hard-to-treat cancers
Researchers are expanding options for patients with hard-to-treat cancers using a personalized approach that identifies effective therapies by testing large libraries of drugs on living tumor cells. The approach has shown stronger responses than initial findings, suggesting it can reveal opportunities missed by traditional methods.
Why are men more likely to develop multiple myeloma than women?
A new study published in CANCER found that men are more likely to have advanced disease and high myeloma load at diagnosis compared to women. Men were also less likely to have low bone mineral density and had different chromosomal abnormalities, which may contribute to the sex disparity in multiple myeloma risk.
Brain cancer digital twin predicts treatment outcomes
A machine-learning-based approach has been developed to map real-time tumor metabolism in brain cancer patients, helping doctors discover effective treatment strategies. The digital twin uses patient data to calculate metabolic flux, predicting which treatments are likely to work for individual cases of glioma.
The emotional toll of childhood cancer lasts long after treatment
A joint study by Bar-Ilan University and Sheba Medical Center found that symptoms of post-traumatic stress, anxiety, and depression remain common among childhood cancer survivors and their parents more than a year after treatment completion. The study highlights the need for long-term follow-up care that includes assessment of psycholo...
New prostate cancer trial seeks to reduce toxicity without sacrificing efficacy
A new clinical trial, RECIPROCAL, seeks to optimize targeted radiation therapy for men with advanced prostate cancer by adjusting treatment based on individual PSA levels. The trial aims to minimize side effects while preserving survival benefits.
Inflammation fuels one of the most aggressive forms of cancer
Researchers discovered a novel mechanism behind small cell lung cancer's aggressiveness, involving the lack of caspase-8, leading to necroptosis and inflammation that fosters tumor progression. This pre-tumoral inflammation suppresses anti-cancer immune responses, promoting metastasis and relapse.
Blood test may help identify which colon cancer patients benefit from NSAIDs
A blood test may help doctors identify which patients with colon cancer can benefit from anti-inflammatory medication and chemotherapy after surgery. The test measures circulating tumor DNA levels, and high-risk patients who test positive see improved survival rates when taking celecoxib with chemotherapy.
Adding antibody treatment to chemo boosts outcomes for children with rare cancer
A phase two trial found that adding dinutuximab beta to chemotherapy improves the best objective response rate and overall survival time for children with relapsed or refractory neuroblastoma. The treatment resulted in a significant increase in patients' tumors shrinking after six cycles of treatment.
Cell-free DNA Could Detect Adverse Events from Immunotherapy
Researchers developed a non-invasive blood test to detect genetic material shed by tumors, which can identify adverse events related to immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy. The test found evidence of multi-organ injury in patients with immune-related adverse events, suggesting that the clinical syndromes may represent only a small frac...
Renuka Iyer, MD, named new Chief Medical Officer for National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN)
Renuka Iyer, a leading oncologist with extensive experience in cancer care and research, has been appointed as the new Chief Medical Officer of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network. She will oversee the development of evidence-based guidelines for cancer prevention and treatment.
“Lung cancer should no longer be defined by fear and stigma,” experts say
A special issue of the Journal of the American College of Radiology highlights the transformation of lung cancer from a feared and stigmatized disease to one that is increasingly understood as chronic and treatable. Advances in screening, therapeutics, and survivorship have improved outcomes for patients.
Much-needed new drug approved for deadliest blood cancer
Researchers at the University of Virginia Health System have developed a new treatment for acute myeloid leukemia, a deadly form of blood cancer. The FDA-approved medication works by disrupting cellular protein interactions that drive leukemia cell growth and survival, offering patients a potential cure.
Queens Cancer Center Oncology nurse receives Alliance CRP RISE Award for Advancing Cancer Research
Linda Bulone, a Queens Cancer Center Oncology nurse, received the 2025 Alliance Clinical Research Professionals Research Integrity Service Excellence (CRP RISE) Award. She has significantly increased clinical trial participation, expanded early screening efforts, and supported reductions in late-stage diagnoses.
ASTRO publishes first clinical guideline on radiation therapy for gastric cancer
The American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) has published its first clinical guideline on radiation therapy for gastric cancer. The guidelines provide evidence-based recommendations for the role of radiation therapy in multidisciplinary care, including patient selection, integration with systemic therapy and treatment delivery.
Fertility preservation for patients with cancer
A case study in CMAJ describes successful ovarian tissue preservation in a young woman with Hodgkin lymphoma, highlighting the need for improved access to fertility preservation services. The 'hub-and-spoke' model presented offers a potential solution to overcome geographical barriers and improve patient outcomes.
Scientists move closer to better pancreatic cancer treatments
Researchers at UC Riverside and City of Hope have developed a novel Pin1 degrading compound that suppresses pancreatic cancer peritoneal metastases. The treatment targets not only cancer cells but also tumor-supporting cells, potentially overcoming treatment resistance.
Could a liquid biopsy test lead to earlier diagnoses for numerous cancer types?
A liquid biopsy test may enable early detection of various cancers, increasing stage I–III diagnoses by 10-30% and stage IV diagnoses by 45%. This could improve patient outcomes and reduce the economic impact of cancer. The study's findings suggest a game-changing approach to cancer control.
Human approach is hypothesized to be superior to technology for supportive cancer care according to new data in JNCCN
A recent study found that team-based clinic participants perceived significant improvements in patient care, whereas technology-based clinic participants saw limited benefits. The study highlights the importance of human interaction and values-centered care in supportive cancer care.
Chinese Neurosurgical Journal study explores AI tool to predict medulloblastoma subtypes and genetic risks with high accuracy
A new study published in the Chinese Neurosurgical Journal explores an AI tool that identifies medulloblastoma subgroups based on magnetic resonance imaging scans. The model achieved impressive accuracy in predicting molecular subtypes and genetic risk factors, with 91% accuracy for TP53 mutations and 87% accuracy for chromosome 11 loss.
Study finds gaps exist in quality of cancer care for incarcerated people
Research reveals that individuals diagnosed with cancer during incarceration or shortly after release are less likely to receive prompt and recommended cancer care. The study highlights the importance of addressing barriers to high-quality care in correctional health settings, particularly for patients who have a constitutional right t...