Articles tagged with Cancer Patients
A new epidemiological study found that over 80% of white patients received radiation treatment combined with chemotherapy to preserve the voice box, while only 74.5% of African American patients received the same treatment. The disparity may be narrowing, but further research is needed to identify root causes.
A study found racial disparities in larynx preservation therapy for cancer, with black patients having lower rates of treatment compared to white patients. The use of radiation with chemotherapy as initial treatment has become more widespread, but disparities persist among black patients with stage IV disease.
A new study found that screening intervals between one and three years have similar outcomes for gastric cancer stages, but longer intervals lead to more advanced cancer at diagnosis. The researchers recommend a screening interval of every three years in high-risk regions.
A recent study found that patients who received chemotherapy following removal of periampullary cancer experienced improved overall survival compared to those who did not receive chemotherapy. The study also suggested that gemcitabine therapy provided the most significant survival benefit, with a median survival time of 43.1 months.
Researchers at Ohio State University have identified a new mechanism that promotes cancer growth and spread by releasing tiny vesicles containing microRNA, which alter immune cell behavior. The study suggests a new strategy for treating cancer and diseases of the immune system.
Patients who use interactive personal health records are nearly twice as likely to be up-to-date with recommended preventive services. The study found significant increases in delivery of colorectal, breast, and cervical cancer screenings among IPHR users.
Researchers at Brown University have discovered a way to determine unique leukocyte mixes from blood samples using DNA methylation. The technique can distinguish between various types of cancer and non-cancer conditions, offering a powerful tool for medical research and clinical diagnosis.
A study found that avoiding hospitalizations, worrying less, and having a therapeutic alliance with physicians can improve quality of life for cancer patients at the end of life. The study identified nine factors that explained the most variance in patients' quality of life, including intensive care stays and pastoral care.
Researchers at Ohio State University found that the loss of microRNA-125b (miR-125b) shuts down normal cell metabolism and enables cancer cells to proliferate. The study reveals a new mechanism by which chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) develops, providing potential targets for new drugs.
The Center for Cancer Support and Education in Arlington, Mass., will receive a $10,000 grant from ASTRO's Survivor Circle program to fund breast cancer, advanced cancer, and brain cancer support groups. The Center offers emotional support during treatment and recovery for patients and their family members.
The American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) has partnered with the Surviving And Moving Forward: The SAMFund for Young Adult Survivors of Cancer to promote cancer survivorship. Through the Survivor Circle exhibit, ASTRO is providing financial assistance and resources to young adult survivors.
A multicenter trial showed that nearly half of young patients with early-stage Hodgkin lymphoma can be cured without radiation or intensive chemotherapy, maintaining excellent long-term survival. The study's findings suggest that patients with favorable-risk disease may benefit from minimal treatment approaches.
A study by the University of Kentucky Markey Cancer Center found that cancer patients experienced significant improvements in pain, stress, and nausea after one Jin Shin Jyutsu session. The study included 159 patients who reported a mean decrease of three points for stress and two points for both pain and nausea.
A recent study published in the Journal of Biological Chemistry reveals that mutant p53 protein aggregates may lead to prion-like behavior, impairing its ability to suppress tumor growth. The findings suggest that this misfolding mechanism could serve as a potential target for cancer therapy.
A new experimental medication called enobosarm safely increases muscle strength and physical functioning among cancer patients with low testosterone levels. In a multi-center trial, enobosarm significantly improved physical function by 19% in men with low testosterone and by 13% in those with normal hormone levels.
Researchers found significant improvements in memory and thinking among cancer patients treated with GMCSF plus GCSF compared to those receiving GCSF alone. The study suggests that GMCSF may prevent or reverse cognitive decline in cancer patients, in addition to Alzheimer's patients.
A new study published in Brain found that multiple sclerosis patients have a lower overall cancer risk, with significant reductions in colorectal cancer risk. While brain and bladder cancer risks were slightly elevated, MS patients with relapsing-onset disease had higher non-melanoma skin cancer risk.
Researchers found that cancers with disorganized traffic systems result in lower survival rates and are more difficult to treat. A mathematical equation could help doctors determine the best course of treatment by identifying the complexity of each cancer type.
A novel family of experimental agents targeting the transport protein CRM1 may offer a new treatment for acute leukemia. The agents, called KPT-SINEs, have been shown to inhibit leukemia-cell proliferation, arrest cell division, and induce cell death and differentiation in animal models.
Researchers have discovered JAK3 gene mutations in NK/T-cell lymphoma cells from 23 patients, suggesting the enzyme as a potential drug target. A Janus Kinase inhibitor already in phase III clinical trials for rheumatoid arthritis may also be effective against this cancer
A new method of virtual colonoscopy, administered without laxatives, has been shown to be as accurate as conventional colonoscopy in detecting potentially cancerous polyps. The procedure uses a CT scanner and a tagging agent to identify polyps, and was found to detect clinically significant polyps with 91% accuracy.
Researchers sequenced the bonobo genome to identify key differences with humans and chimpanzees, finding over 2.5 million transposon insertions unique to the bonobo genome. These findings may help understand the genetic basis for traits shared among humans, chimpanzees, and bonobos.
The number of Americans with a history of cancer is expected to reach 18 million by 2022, with 45% of survivors aged 70 or older. Improved cancer survival rates have led to the growth in survivor prevalence despite decreasing cancer incidence rates.
Researchers at H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute found a multimedia psychoeducational intervention more effective in changing patients' perceptions and negative attitudes toward clinical trials than standard educational literature.
Researchers at University of Leeds and The Institute of Cancer Research have made breakthrough with a viral therapy that attacks cancer on two fronts. This 'hitch-hiking' virus can be injected into the bloodstream like standard chemotherapy agents, targeting cancer cells while leaving normal tissue alone.
A new immune approach to fighting some cancers has shown promise, with 20-25% of heavily pre-treated patients responding to BMS-936558. The treatment specifically blocks programmed cell death 1 (PD-1), a key immune checkpoint receptor.
A recent UCSF study found that radiation exposure from medical imaging doubled in integrated health care systems (HMOs) between 1996 and 2010, with significant variations between systems. The study, which analyzed millions of patient records, showed a dramatic increase in imaging rates and high radiation doses.
Researchers identified a molecular marker that quickly distinguishes between fast- and slow-progressing forms of chronic leukemia. The finding enables patients with aggressive disease to start treatment sooner.
A joint research project between Aarhus University and the Danish Cancer Society shows that mindfulness-based psychological therapy helps reduce anxiety and depression in cancer patients. Mindfulness teaches patients to be more conscious of life as it happens, reducing negative thoughts and worries.
A study using PET/CT imaging with F-18 FDG reveals that molecular imaging biomarkers can predict the effectiveness of radiochemotherapy for locally advanced rectal cancer. This improvement in treatment planning could lead to more effective and cost-efficient care.
A new molecular imaging method using PET/CT with Gallium-68 DOTATATE identifies hormonally active tissues, allowing clinicians to re-evaluate patient management. This technique changes treatment plans in over 35% of patients, saving them from unnecessary surgeries.
The Cleveland Clinic will participate in a six-institution MDS Clinical Research Consortium, supported by the Aplastic Anemia & MDS International Foundation. The five-year initiative aims to improve outcomes for patients with myelodysplastic syndrome through clinical trials and research.
A new antibody treatment has shown promising activity in patients with advanced kidney cancer, melanoma and lung cancer. Patients who received the treatment experienced a positive response without severe side effects.
Research shows that PET/CT imaging can change management plans for 34% of esophageal cancer patients, leading to improved survival rates. The technique provides powerful prognostic stratification and should be incorporated into routine clinical practice.
A computer-based algorithm can accurately predict seven-day heart failure mortality rates in emergency room patients. Researchers also found that childhood cancer survivors are at increased risk for gastrointestinal cancers starting as early as 5.5 years after diagnosis.
Patients with incomes under $50,000 were 27% less likely to participate than those earning more, with lower-income individuals expressing greater concerns about costs. The study highlights the need for better education and support for these patients.
Fox Chase researchers found that patients' socioeconomic status influences their treatment choices, with those having higher incomes opting for more effective but expensive treatments. This study highlights the need for policymakers to consider cost sensitivity in cancer care.
LDK378 shows encouraging activity in patients with ALK+ non-small cell lung cancer, including those who no longer respond to crizotinib. The compound is well-tolerated and its optimal dose is being further tested.
Researchers identified patterns in protein expression and found nearly 700 protein pairs implicated in networks of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients. The goal is to tailor therapy by targeting specific protein signaling pathways, which may lead to improved treatment outcomes.
A Penn study found that many patients with head and neck cancers experience significant late effects, but rarely report these issues to their doctors due to concerns about doctor's response. The researchers emphasize the need for improved survivorship care to encourage patients to seek help.
Studies found that regular exercise improved physical function in cancer survivors, but specific prescriptions remain unclear. Researchers also discovered that older cancer survivors engage less in physical activity due to functional declines, potentially affecting independence and survival.
The John Theurer Cancer Center will present research on multiple myeloma and leukemia, including combination therapies and salvage therapy for acute myeloid leukemia. The center's focus on bolstering its research program is part of its continued effort to provide comprehensive cancer care.
A study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology found that childhood cancer survivors experience increased anxiety, depression, and depressive symptoms due to persistent hair loss and disfigurement. The study's findings highlight the long-term impact of childhood cancer treatment on quality of life.
A study by Duke University Medical Center found that breast cancer patients have significantly impaired cardio-pulmonary function that can persist for years after treatment. Higher cardio fitness levels were linked to longer median survival among women with advanced breast cancer, suggesting exercise may be a useful intervention.
The University of Kentucky Markey Cancer Center will conduct research on myelodysplastic syndrome, a deadly blood disorder often caused by chemotherapy or radiation treatments. The goal is to determine biomarkers for the disease and tailor cancer treatments to reduce the risk of developing MDS.
A study by the University of Wisconsin found an association between sleep disordered breathing and increased cancer mortality. The researchers analyzed data from 1,522 subjects and found that those with mild, moderate, or severe SDB had a higher risk of cancer mortality compared to those without SDB.
A study presented at Heart Failure Congress 2012 found that statin therapy prevents cancer and reduces death from all causes in heart transplant recipients. Cancer is the leading cause of death late after heart transplantation, with skin cancer being particularly common.
A new study published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine found a significant association between sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) and increased risk of cancer mortality. Patients with severe SDB had a nearly five times higher incidence of cancer deaths compared to those without the disorder.
A systematic review found that low-dose computerized tomography (LDCT) screening can reduce lung cancer mortality rates among high-risk individuals. The study analyzed 8 randomized controlled trials and 13 cohort studies, with the National Lung Screening Trial demonstrating a significant benefit. However, potential harms of LDCT screen...
A nurse practitioner-driven consultation improved cancer patients' emotional health and quality of life, with a significant improvement in those who received the intervention. The study suggests that incorporating palliative care discussions into oncology practices can lead to better patient outcomes.
A modified version of Google's PageRank algorithm is used to rank proteins by their genetic relevance to pancreatic cancer progression. Seven proteins were found that can help assess tumor aggressiveness and guide treatment decisions.
Researchers from the University of Southampton have developed a groundbreaking study to investigate the experiences and needs of people after primary treatment of colorectal cancer. The CREW study aims to inform healthcare providers about what helps or hinders rapid and effective recovery, with over 1,000 patients recruited.
Dabrafenib, a BRAF inhibitor, demonstrates substantial tumor shrinkage in patients with brain metastases from melanoma. The study also reveals potential for the treatment to prolong survival beyond 12 months.
A phase I clinical trial combining temsirolimus and capecitabine demonstrates promising evidence of disease control in advanced malignancies. The study shows that the combination can be given safely to patients, with a positive survival trend observed.
Researchers from Mount Sinai presented several landmark studies on late-stage cancer treatment trends, a promising multiple myeloma vaccine, and predictive models of soft tissue sarcomas, prostate, and bladder cancer. The studies aimed to identify factors associated with lack of treatment and explore new treatments for various cancers.
Robert F. Ozols, a leading expert in ovarian cancer research, will be honored with the American Society of Clinical Oncology's 2012 Distinguished Achievement Award. He made significant contributions to advancing chemotherapy research and overcoming drug resistance.
Researchers at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center have identified three genetic targets in approximately 50% of patients with squamous cell carcinomas. This breakthrough enables personalized treatment for a previously untreatable type of lung cancer.
A new treatment regimen, accelerated MVAC, has been shown to provide comparable benefits to standard chemotherapy without the same toxicity. This accelerated schedule of six weeks has improved response rates and tolerability for patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer.
The American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) has released five new studies at its upcoming annual meeting, including those on precision medicine and cancer's genetic weak spots. These studies demonstrate improvements in treatment for aggressive cancers and provide valuable tools to lessen the side effects of cancer treatment.
A recent study found that 54% of patients with stage two and three rectal cancer did not receive treatment consistent with guidelines. The study, published in Clinical Oncology, also showed significant regional variation in treatment patterns across Alberta.