Articles tagged with Cancer Patients
A new study found that chemotherapy and radiotherapy together reduce surgery and removal of the voice box due to cancer recurrence. The combination treatment was associated with a significantly lower rate of surgeries compared to standard therapy or radiotherapy alone.
A new study found that the California law SB 37 has eliminated a major barrier to cancer clinical trial participation, with no patients citing insurance limitations as a reason. Participation rates have increased from 51% to 69%, but further awareness campaigns are needed to raise rates more dramatically.
The GELA study reveals that MabThera plus CHOP improves three-year event-free survival by 18% and overall survival by 11%, with no increased toxicity. This breakthrough treatment offers a potential cure for aggressive NHL, which affects 55% of the 1.5 million people worldwide suffering from non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.
An early clinical trial at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center shows 2C4 effectively shrank tumors in several types of cancer, targeting a common growth signaling pathway. Eighteen out of twenty-one patients responded to treatment, with some achieving partial remission and stabilizing disease for over a year.
A study by the University of Rochester Medical Center found that childhood cancer survivors are at risk of cardiovascular problems, including cardiomyopathy and premature atherosclerosis. The research also showed that these survivors were less active and had different body compositions compared to their siblings.
A study by Chandra P. Belani and colleagues found that elderly patients with advanced NSCLC can tolerate combination therapy safely and effectively, with median survival rates comparable to those of younger patients. The treatment regimens used in the study were weekly paclitaxel in combination with full doses of carboplatin.
A study by Dr. Barbara Andersen and Kristen Carpenter found that women with gynecological cancers face significant sexual adjustment issues due to complex recovery processes. The researchers identified key factors influencing sexual adjustment, including relationship satisfaction and emotional state.
A study of 7,257 patients with rectal cancer found that those treated at high-volume hospitals had lower mortality rates and higher survival rates compared to those treated at low-volume hospitals. Patients at high-volume hospitals also experienced a lower risk of permanent colostomy.
Researchers found that low blood levels of selenium are a risk factor for progression of Barrett's esophagus and that higher levels of selenium may inhibit the progression of this condition. The study suggests that adequate selenium consumption may lower cancer risk in people with Barrett's esophagus.
A high-calorie diet may increase chances of surviving bowel cancer for longer, with patients on low and moderate energy intakes around three times as likely to die within five years compared to those on a high intake. Female sex, being under 65, and location of the tumour were found to be factors increasing survival rates.
Multidetector CT (MDCT) accurately identified 66 out of 71 total cancers found after additional tests and surgery, including small cancers under 5mm in diameter. MDCT offers a more comfortable and time-efficient alternative to excretory urography for detecting urinary tract abnormalities.
A new study found that spiritual well-being can significantly impact the mental health of terminally ill cancer patients. Patients with high spiritual well-being were less likely to experience strong feelings of hopelessness and suicidal thoughts. The research highlights the importance of addressing spiritual needs in palliative care.
A study found that MR imaging identified 86% of residual disease, outperforming mammography in detecting disease near the lumpectomy site. The imaging modality was also most accurate in identifying disease in different quadrants than the original tumor site.
A recent study shows that whole body PET scans are twice as sensitive as CT scans in detecting breast cancer spread, with a higher accuracy rate of 93% compared to 46%. This breakthrough technology also offers less radiation exposure to patients, making it a more efficient and safer option.
A study published by the American College of Radiology found that PET scans had a sensitivity rate of 93% compared to 46% for CT scans. Additionally, PET scans offered advantages over CT scans in terms of cost savings due to lower radiation exposure. The researchers recommend using PET scans for staging patients with suspected cancer s...
A new contrast agent has been shown to be 92% accurate in identifying malignant disease using MR imaging, outperforming CT scans in diagnosing testicular cancer metastases. The agent enhances lymph node signal intensity, allowing for earlier detection of disease.
The Stanford study found that FDG-PET is highly effective for lung nodule diagnosis but most cost-effective when used selectively with CT scans. The researchers recommend relying on CT as the initial test for almost all patients and using FDG-PET in cases where the risk of cancer conflicts with CT results.
A study by Michael DeBaun and colleagues found that children with neuropathic pain require significantly higher doses of morphine and benzodiazepine than those without. Using methadone as an alternative, the team discovered a more effective treatment approach for pain relief in these patients.
A study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that only 40% of patients with superficial bladder cancer had regular follow-up examinations, despite recommended guidelines. Patient characteristics such as age, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status were independently associated with low-intensity surveillance.
A decision aid called Decision Board improved patients' understanding of their disease, risk of recurrence, and treatment options. Women who used the board were more satisfied with decision making and preferred a more active role in their care.
A study of 1,383 cancer patients found that uninsured patients paid more for healthcare services but received significantly fewer treatments and services compared to insured patients. The disparity was attributed to various factors, including age at diagnosis and insurance coverage by race and ethnicity.
Uninsured cancer patients receive far less health care, with higher out-of-pocket spending compared to privately insured patients. The study highlights disparities in healthcare coverage between Hispanic and non-Hispanic populations, with uninsured Hispanic patients facing significant barriers to care.
A new generation of medical treatment is being driven by proteomics, enabling early detection of cancer and personalized therapy. The technology uses multiple high-resolution serum proteomic patterns to detect disease, with 85% accuracy in diagnosis.
The National Cancer Research Institute (NCRI) has launched the National Cancer Tissue Resource to address the fragmented approach to collecting and using tumour samples for research. Key areas of study requiring large-scale sample collection include predicting outcomes, identifying inherited markers, genetic susceptibility to cancer.
A recent study found that genes determining breast density are associated with an increased risk of breast cancer. Additionally, researchers discovered a compound called YC-1 that slows tumor growth in mice by blocking angiogenesis, potentially leading to new cancer treatments.
Researchers at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute discover that a rare blood disorder HES is caused by a fusion of genes creating a cancer-causing gene, which can be inhibited by the imatinib drug. The study shows that patients with HES respond well to the treatment, offering new hope for this aggressive disease.
A new study finds Keppra alleviates severe nerve pain in cancer patients by reducing VAS scores to 0-3 within 3-14 days, with a significant decrease in opioid use. The medication was well-tolerated and showed potential therapeutic benefits for further investigation.
The study found that 50% of patients started taking dietary supplements, 40% made dietary changes, and 20% began new physical activities. Lifestyle changes were common among cancer patients up to two years after diagnosis and were often associated with improved health and well-being.
A study found that higher plasma folate levels were associated with lower risk of breast cancer, while higher plasma vitamin B6 levels increased breast cancer risk. Plasma vitamin B12 levels inversely associated with breast cancer risk among premenopausal women. Cystic fibrosis patients may have an increased risk of digestive tract can...
A Mayo Clinic phase II study of 42 patients with advanced androgen-independent prostate cancer found that green tea did not provide therapeutic benefit. The study showed no sustained decline in PSA levels, and high doses of green tea were associated with significant side effects.
A recent study found that over 90% of internet sites promoting floressence and amalaki raised red flags due to lack of scientific evidence, while only 23% of selenium sites with some research backing did. The researchers recommend using specific questions to identify questionable sites.
Researchers have identified a gene responsible for the spread of cancer in the body, which could lead to more targeted and less toxic treatment options. The study found that silencing this gene can halt the migration of cancer cells, reducing the risk of metastasis.
Researchers found that patients with xeroderma pigmentosum had lower DNA repair capacity than control subjects, increasing their risk for melanoma. A natural compound called deguelin may have potential as both a chemopreventive agent and a therapeutic agent against lung cancer.
A new phthalocyanine compound, Pc 4, targets cancerous cells preferentially, leaving healthy tissue alone. The treatment uses laser light to activate the drug, producing forms of oxygen that kill cancer cells and break down tumors.
In Nova Scotia, a 52% increase in out-of-hospital cancer deaths between 1992 and 1997 was observed. This trend poses challenges for the healthcare system, particularly palliative care.
A novel treatment approach combining surgery and intraperitoneal hyperthermic chemotherapy (IPHC) has shown significant promise in improving survival rates for patients with peritoneal carcinomatosis. The study found that selected patients may benefit from improved quality of life and extended survival.
Scientists at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill have discovered a new role for the BLM gene in repairing DNA breaks, which can lead to cancer. The study found that the BLM gene is essential for maintaining genome stability and preventing chromosome rearrangements similar to those seen in follicular lymphoma.
Researchers at Purdue University have discovered a single protein that sets the length of periods of activity and inactivity within cells, known as the biological clock. The discovery has significant implications for medicine, including minimizing jet lag and determining optimal cancer treatment timing.
Researchers have found a promising combination therapy that may significantly improve treatment outcomes for patients with advanced prostate cancer. In a phase II clinical trial, the combination of calcitriol and docetaxel showed a higher PSA response rate compared to docetaxel alone.
A study of 213 terminally-ill cancer patients found that only 7% expressed concern over losing dignity. The majority reported psychological distress and symptom distress instead. This highlights the need for dignity-conserving care in palliative care.
A survey of 1,120 cancer physicians reveals substantial differences in views about the purpose of clinical trials. Pediatric oncologists are more likely to enroll patients in trials for state-of-the-art treatment, while other specialties prioritize scientific advancement and future patient care.
A study by researchers at the H.Lee Moffitt Cancer Center has identified the ERCC1 gene as a potentially clinically useful independent marker for lung cancer. Patients with high levels of ERCC1 are more likely to survive after surgery and may benefit from platinum-based chemotherapy, while those with low levels have a poorer prognosis.
Researchers at UVA have identified a gene called RhoGDI2 that plays a crucial role in preventing the spread of cancer. The study found that replacing this gene in human metastatic cancer cells can suppress their ability to metastasize, suggesting new therapeutic options for treating metastatic disease.
A clinical trial led by Dr. Joseph Friedberg at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital is exploring the effectiveness of photodynamic therapy (PDT) on non-small cell lung cancer, with patients showing survival times between three and four times the usual six to nine months after surgery.
Researchers found that PC-SPES reduced the effectiveness of paclitaxel treatment in both androgen-sensitive and androgen-independent models of prostate carcinoma. Consumption of garlic, chives, and other allium vegetables may be associated with a reduced risk of prostate cancer.
The Mayo Clinic study shows RF ablation can effectively kill cancer cells causing bone pain, with 95% of patients experiencing significant pain relief. The procedure takes 30-60 minutes and alleviates pain by killing nerve endings and cancer tissue.
A new programme, GOALS, has been developed to help cancer patients discuss their condition with family, friends, and colleagues. The five-step protocol focuses on identifying the right place and moment for conversation, acknowledging emotions, and developing a strategy to open discussion.
A new information structure called Point of Information and Support (PIS) has been shown to reduce patients' anxiety and depression by providing personalized health information. The PIS comprises a library with booklets, videos, and essential information about cancer types and drugs.
Research by Dr Anne Chantal Braud and her team has shown that older women with breast cancer can tolerate powerful medication, contradicting initial expectations. The study examined the effects of surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and hormone therapy on 179 women over 70 years old.
A ESMO survey found that almost all oncologists (92%) believe dying patients should receive anti-tumor therapy alongside end-of-life care. However, less than half routinely coordinate patient care or collaborate with support teams.
A patient's view on clinical trials highlights the importance of thorough explanations, confidentiality, and compassionate communication. Sylvia Achin emphasizes that patients risk losing their priorities, relationships, and even support when faced with a life-threatening disease like cancer. Effective communication can help alleviate ...
Key findings from the ESMO Congress emphasize the need for better care and communication in cancer treatment. Patients must be informed and involved in their treatment decisions, while healthcare professionals should prioritize empathy and understanding. A European cancer patient coalition is proposed to amplify patients' voices.
A recent study suggests that cancer patients who have smoking-related cancers such as lung, head and neck or bladder cancer are more likely to quit smoking. These patients were also more likely to have made attempts to quit in the previous 12 months and had not received radiotherapy or surgery.
Professor Edzard Ernst urges oncologists to be open to alternative medicines, as desperation drives patients to try anything. He warns that some therapies can be dangerous and advises patients to consult with healthcare professionals before trying new treatments.
A study by Professor Lesley Fallowfield found that psychosocial discussions are often overlooked in cancer treatment consultations. Training can help doctors and nurses discuss personal and sexual issues comfortably and sensitively, improving patient outcomes.
The American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) is calling on the FDA to accelerate the development and approval of chemopreventive agents for precancerous cells. Emerging technologies have improved detection capabilities, but drug approvals remain limited due to concerns about treatment efficacy in high-risk populations.
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center have developed a gene therapy that significantly reduces bone cancer pain in mice. The therapy uses an inactivated herpes simplex virus to deliver the human gene for proenkaphalin, a naturally occurring painkilling peptide.
Recent cancer patient data reveals higher-than-expected five-year to twenty-year relative survival rates across various types of cancer. Period analysis shows more optimistic estimates compared to traditional cohort-based methods.
Researchers at Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center have been awarded a $9.5 million grant to study the innate immune system and develop new cancer therapies. The project will explore how targeted therapies can be more potent in the presence of certain agents, and will involve multiple clinical trials and laboratory projects.
Researchers highlight the importance of selecting an antiemetic with low potential for drug interactions in elderly cancer patients. Granisetron, a 5HT3 receptor antagonist, is considered a safe choice due to its low risk of cardiovascular toxicity and adverse interactions.