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ASTRO issues first clinical guideline on radiation therapy for cervical cancer

The American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) has released its first clinical guideline on radiation therapy for cervical cancer. The guidelines address indications and best practices for external beam radiation therapy and brachytherapy in postoperative and definitive settings, including the use of chemotherapy and IMRT.

SourceAmerican Society for Radiation Oncology·JournalPractical Radiation Oncology·DateJun 10, 2020

Much shorter radiation treatment found to be safe, effective for people with soft tissue sarcoma

Researchers at UCLA Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center found a condensed five-day radiation regimen to be as effective as traditional five-week treatment in treating soft tissue sarcoma. The new approach showed lower wound complication rates and improved cancer control without increasing side effects.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalClinical Cancer Research·DateFeb 13, 2020

ASTRO issues new guideline on radiation therapy for basal, squamous cell skin cancers

The American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) has released a new clinical guideline for the use of radiation therapy in treating basal and cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas. The guideline provides recommendations on when to use radiation as stand-alone therapy or following surgery, as well as dosing and fractionation schedules.

SourceAmerican Society for Radiation Oncology·JournalPractical Radiation Oncology·DateDec 10, 2019

Survey finds 1 in 3 patients needed more information on cancer treatment side effects

A nationwide survey of over 400 US adults with cancer found that nearly all patients felt confident in their treatment decisions but had gaps in knowledge about potential side effects. The study highlights the need for more informed patient counseling and coordination between oncology disciplines to manage treatment-related side effects.

SourceAmerican Society for Radiation Oncology·JournalJournal of Oncology Practice·DateNov 20, 2019

Standardized medical residency exam may reduce pool of diverse and qualified candidates

A recent study found that a standardized medical school exam can bias the entry of diverse and qualified candidates into radiation oncology residency programs. The researchers suggest that using a holistic approach to evaluate applicants could help address these biases, incorporating emotional intelligence and other core competencies.

SourceThomas Jefferson University·JournalPractical Radiation Oncology·DateSep 11, 2019

New guideline clarifies role of radiation therapy in pancreatic cancer treatment

The American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) has released a new clinical guideline recommending the use of radiation therapy in pre-surgical, post-surgical, definitive and palliative settings. The guideline emphasizes a patient-centered approach integrating patients' values and preferences into treatment decisions.

SourceAmerican Society for Radiation Oncology·JournalPractical Radiation Oncology·DateSep 4, 2019

Spaceflight consistently affects the gut

A new Northwestern University study discovered that spaceflight consistently changes the abundance and diversity of gut bacteria in mice. Using a novel analytical tool called STARMAPS, researchers found that spaceflight causes a specific change on the microbiome, but ruled out radiation as the cause.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalMicrobiome·DateAug 21, 2019