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Too Few Older Adults Get Recommended Screenings
November 19, 2009
Report looks to improve health of this group with better preventive care. Screening for cancer and other preventive health measures can prolong lives, but only 25 percent of adults aged 50 to 64 in the United States are getting these recommended screenings, a new report shows.
Prepared by the U.S.
Prepared by the U.S.
Task Force Member Defends Mammography Guidelines
November 19, 2009
Meanwhile, three doctors weigh in on what women should do about the new recommendations. Responding to the uproar over revised mammogram recommendations unveiled earlier this week, a member of the independent task force that crafted the recommendations defended them Thursday, saying they were based on the most current, accurate information available.
Dr. Timothy Wilt, a member of the U.
Dr. Timothy Wilt, a member of the U.
Great American Smokeout '09
Time to Quit
November 19, 2009
American Cancer Society sets Nov. 19 as annual day to 'butt out' for good. The less you smoke, the more birthdays you'll have, says the American Cancer Society as it encourages smokers to quit on Thursday, the day of the 34th Great American Smokeout.
Research shows that smokers who quit at age 35 gain an average of eight years of life expectancy, and those who quit at 55 gain about five years. Even long-time smokers who quit at age 65 gain three years.
Research shows that smokers who quit at age 35 gain an average of eight years of life expectancy, and those who quit at 55 gain about five years. Even long-time smokers who quit at age 65 gain three years.
Morphine May Help Tumors Spread in Cancer Patients
November 18, 2009
Lab study finds that common surgical painkillers help cancer cells thrive. Two new studies add to growing evidence that morphine and other opiate-based painkillers may promote the growth and spread of cancer cells.
The papers, scheduled to be presented Wednesday at an international cancer conference in Boston, also demonstrate how preventing opiates from reaching lung cancer cells reduces cancer cell proliferation, invasion and migration.
The findings from tests with cell cultures and mice suggest that the mu opiate receptor .
The papers, scheduled to be presented Wednesday at an international cancer conference in Boston, also demonstrate how preventing opiates from reaching lung cancer cells reduces cancer cell proliferation, invasion and migration.
The findings from tests with cell cultures and mice suggest that the mu opiate receptor .
Mammography
What to Do Now?
November 18, 2009
Three doctors weigh in on what women should do about the new guidelines. When a U.S. government task force recommended that women wait until they're 50 to get their first mammogram to check for breast cancer, reaction was swift.
Folic Acid Fortification Might Boost Cancer Risk
November 17, 2009
Norwegian study found supplementation raised chances of disease by 21%. Although folic acid fortification of foods can prevent many birth defects, it may also increase the risk for developing cancer, Norwegian researchers report.
Since 1998, many countries have mandated folic acid (vitamin B9) fortification of foods to decrease the incidence of neural-tube defects in newborns. By October 2009, the flour produced in these countries, plus the flour that is fortified voluntarily, represented 30 percent of the world's wheat flour produced in large mills.
Since 1998, many countries have mandated folic acid (vitamin B9) fortification of foods to decrease the incidence of neural-tube defects in newborns. By October 2009, the flour produced in these countries, plus the flour that is fortified voluntarily, represented 30 percent of the world's wheat flour produced in large mills.
Guidelines Delay Start of Mammograms to Age 50, Then Every Other Year
November 16, 2009
Cancer Society, others voice strong disapproval of federal recommendations. Women don't need to start having mammograms to screen for breast cancer until they're 50, and they only need to have those exams every other year, new government guidelines suggest.
Also, breast self-exams, which women have been urged to do routinely, have not helped lower the death rate from breast cancer, the guidelines add.
Not all agree with the revised recommendations, however.
Also, breast self-exams, which women have been urged to do routinely, have not helped lower the death rate from breast cancer, the guidelines add.
Not all agree with the revised recommendations, however.
Chinese Scientists Develop Database on the Liver
November 13, 2009
Information on proteins could help guide treatments for hepatitis and more. Chinese scientists report that they have created an extensive database about proteins produced by genes in the human liver, an endeavor they say could become the foundation for new treatments for liver disease.
To develop the database, reportedly the largest of its kind for any organ, the researchers examined 10 liver-tissue samples from volunteers and identified 6,788 proteins, half of which had never before been encountered. One unexplained discovery, they said, was that many seem to be connected to diseases of the nervous system.
To develop the database, reportedly the largest of its kind for any organ, the researchers examined 10 liver-tissue samples from volunteers and identified 6,788 proteins, half of which had never before been encountered. One unexplained discovery, they said, was that many seem to be connected to diseases of the nervous system.
Lab Study Slows Breast Cancer Spread to Bone in Mice
November 12, 2009
Experimental drug may lead to therapy that inhibits metastasis, research suggests. An experimental drug reduced the spread of breast cancer into bone in mice, researchers say.
The drug .
The drug .
Leukemia Drug May Help Some Ovarian Cancer Patients
November 12, 2009
Sprycel limited the growth of cancer cells in lab study. A drug for people with a form of leukemia holds promise as a possible treatment for ovarian cancer, new research suggests.
The drug dasatinib (Sprycel) is used to treat chronic myeloid leukemia. Researchers at the University of California at Los Angeles report that the drug limited the growth and invasive powers of ovarian cancer cells.
The drug dasatinib (Sprycel) is used to treat chronic myeloid leukemia. Researchers at the University of California at Los Angeles report that the drug limited the growth and invasive powers of ovarian cancer cells.
Cancer Can Strain Marriages to Breaking Point
November 11, 2009
But men much more likely to leave than women if spouse is sick, study finds. Cancer can put an enormous strain on a marriage, and couples are much more likely to fall apart if the woman is the patient.
In fact, the odds of separation or divorce are six times higher compared to when the man is the one with the illness, a new study shows.
The researchers did find that couples that have been married longer are more likely to survive the difficulties of dealing with cancer.
In fact, the odds of separation or divorce are six times higher compared to when the man is the one with the illness, a new study shows.
The researchers did find that couples that have been married longer are more likely to survive the difficulties of dealing with cancer.
New Polyp Detection Method Could Be Cost-Saver
November 11, 2009
Optical technology is as accurate as colorectal tissue examination, study finds. Optical technology could help physicians detect small colorectal polyps during colonoscopies and save money, too, new research suggests.
In the report, published online Nov. 10 in The Lancet Oncology, the study authors explained that the technique could replace histopathology, which requires more testing and can be costly.
In the report, published online Nov. 10 in The Lancet Oncology, the study authors explained that the technique could replace histopathology, which requires more testing and can be costly.
Anemia Drugs May Cause Deadly Blood Clots
November 10, 2009
Study raises more concerns about common treatment for chemo patients. New research on cancer patients adds to the controversy surrounding anemia drugs such as Procrit and Aranesp, concluding that they increase the risk of venous thromboembolism, potentially fatal blood clots.
These drugs, called erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs), are commonly prescribed to fight anemia associated with chemotherapy and chronic kidney disease. Recent studies have linked them with increased risk of death, stroke and new cancers.
These drugs, called erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs), are commonly prescribed to fight anemia associated with chemotherapy and chronic kidney disease. Recent studies have linked them with increased risk of death, stroke and new cancers.
Breast Cancer Drugs May Fight Cervical Cancer, Too
November 09, 2009
Study in mice reports success with drugs that inhibit estrogen. Two drugs used to treat breast cancer and osteoporosis eliminated cervical cancer in mice, according to a new study.
The drugs also cleared precancerous growths in the cervix and vagina, and prevented the onset of cancer in mice with precancerous lesions.
The breast cancer drug fulvestrant and the breast cancer/osteoporosis drug raloxifene were given to mice genetically engineered to carry human papillomavirus (HPV) 16, which is strongly associated with cervical cancer.
The drugs also cleared precancerous growths in the cervix and vagina, and prevented the onset of cancer in mice with precancerous lesions.
The breast cancer drug fulvestrant and the breast cancer/osteoporosis drug raloxifene were given to mice genetically engineered to carry human papillomavirus (HPV) 16, which is strongly associated with cervical cancer.
Thyroid Cancer Higher in Volcanic Areas
November 06, 2009
Study finds exposure to toxic compounds may explain the increased cases. New research suggests that living near a volcano puts people at higher risk of getting a type of thyroid cancer.
It's not clear how volcanoes might be related to cancer, but researchers suspect that the toxic compounds they produce could play a role.
Researchers are also unsure of why thyroid cancer rates are rising around the world.
It's not clear how volcanoes might be related to cancer, but researchers suspect that the toxic compounds they produce could play a role.
Researchers are also unsure of why thyroid cancer rates are rising around the world.
Early Morning Colonoscopies May Find More Polyps
November 06, 2009
Study suggests differences in patient preparation and doctor fatigue play a role. Early morning colonoscopies detect more polyps than colon cancer screenings done later in the day, and the number of polyps found decreases by the hour as the day progresses, a new study has found.
Removing polyps is believed to reduce the risk of colon cancer by 60 to 90 percent.
Researchers from the University of California, Los Angeles, analyzed data on 477 people who had colonoscopies in a one-year span at a Veterans Affairs hospital.
Removing polyps is believed to reduce the risk of colon cancer by 60 to 90 percent.
Researchers from the University of California, Los Angeles, analyzed data on 477 people who had colonoscopies in a one-year span at a Veterans Affairs hospital.
Green Tea May Help Prevent Oral Cancer
November 05, 2009
Small study reports evidence of cancer-fighting properties. A new study appears to add to growing evidence that green tea might help protect against cancer.
U.S.
U.S.
Will New Anemia Drug Top Current Treatments?
November 04, 2009
Designed for a rare condition, it might have a wider application, experts say. A new drug designed to treat patients with a rare form of anemia could possibly have wider applications, perhaps replacing other anemia treatments that have been linked to an increased risk of death, cancer and stroke, experts say.
The drug, Hematide, was successful in treating patients who have pure red-cell aplasia, a condition caused by antibodies to a hormone needed to produce red blood cells. It's a "devastating condition that many patients have died from and ties patients to blood transfusions every two weeks for the rest of their life," said lead researcher Dr.
The drug, Hematide, was successful in treating patients who have pure red-cell aplasia, a condition caused by antibodies to a hormone needed to produce red blood cells. It's a "devastating condition that many patients have died from and ties patients to blood transfusions every two weeks for the rest of their life," said lead researcher Dr.
PSA Reading Could Predict Post-Radiation Survival
November 04, 2009
Rising level in prostate cancer patients may call for more treatment, study finds. Prostate cancer patients whose prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels rise within 18 months after radiotherapy have an increased risk of death, say U.S. researchers.
Shorter, More Intense Radiation OK for Some Breast Cancers
November 04, 2009
Three-week course comparable to six-week treatment, researchers find. A shorter, more intense course of whole-breast radiation works as well as the traditional six-week course, at least for some early-stage breast cancers, a new study shows.
"This concept of a shorter length of treatment is gaining acceptance," said Dr. Manjeet Chadha, associate chair of radiation oncology at Beth Israel Medical Center and associate professor of radiation oncology at Albert Einstein College of Medicine, both in New York City.
"This concept of a shorter length of treatment is gaining acceptance," said Dr. Manjeet Chadha, associate chair of radiation oncology at Beth Israel Medical Center and associate professor of radiation oncology at Albert Einstein College of Medicine, both in New York City.
Focused Radiation May Help Some With Lung Cancer
November 04, 2009
Study reports successes, especially for those with good lung function. Three-year survival was 100 percent for people with early-stage lung cancer and good lung function who were treated with radical stereotactic radiosurgery using CyberKnife, according to a new study funded by the product's maker.
Standard care for people with small lung tumors calls for surgical removal of the affected lobe, but some people cannot have surgery because of other medical conditions, such as heart disease or emphysema.
"Our goal has been to find a reasonable option for patients who don't want or can't tolerate surgery," the study's lead author, Dr.
Standard care for people with small lung tumors calls for surgical removal of the affected lobe, but some people cannot have surgery because of other medical conditions, such as heart disease or emphysema.
"Our goal has been to find a reasonable option for patients who don't want or can't tolerate surgery," the study's lead author, Dr.
Low Cholesterol May Help Prevent Cancer
November 03, 2009
Two studies dispel longstanding fears about possible connection. Low blood cholesterol levels reduce the risk not only of heart disease but also of cancer, two new studies show.
The findings should help ease longstanding fears that low cholesterol is associated with an increased risk of cancer, said Dr. Demetrius Albanes, a senior investigator at the U.
The findings should help ease longstanding fears that low cholesterol is associated with an increased risk of cancer, said Dr. Demetrius Albanes, a senior investigator at the U.
Drug Could Help Treat Small HER2-Positive Breast Tumors
November 03, 2009
Researcher urges studies to determine benefits of anti-HER2 therapies. Women with a relatively uncommon type of breast cancer are significantly more likely to face its recurrence and spread, but researchers now say these women may benefit from treatment with the breast cancer drug Herceptin.
Two studies, from the United States and Italy, examined cases of women with small (1 centimeter or less in diameter) HER2-positive breast cancers that hadn't spread to the lymph nodes. The researchers found that the cancer is more than two times more likely to recur in HER2-positive women than in women with HER2-negative breast cancers.
Two studies, from the United States and Italy, examined cases of women with small (1 centimeter or less in diameter) HER2-positive breast cancers that hadn't spread to the lymph nodes. The researchers found that the cancer is more than two times more likely to recur in HER2-positive women than in women with HER2-negative breast cancers.
Delays in Lung Cancer Care More Common in Public Hospitals
November 02, 2009
Age, race, insurance also influence timing between diagnosis and therapy, study finds. The length of time a patient has to wait between lung cancer diagnosis and treatment is influenced by a number of health-care system factors, a new U.S. study finds.
Childhood Brain Cancer Causes Other Long-Term Problems
November 02, 2009
Treatment leaves survivors with significant cognitive decline, researchers find. Childhood brain cancer survivors have ongoing cognitive problems and achieve lower levels of education, employment and income than their siblings and survivors of other types of cancer, a U.S. study has found.
Five-Minute Survey Can Help Predict Lung Cancer
November 02, 2009
Office visit questionnaire led to screening in high-risk study patients. A simple questionnaire can identify patients at high risk for lung cancer, researchers say.
In a study that began in 2001 with 1,000 people in Colorado who were seeing their primary care physician for general health issues, patients were asked to complete a five-minute questionnaire that collected information about lung cancer risk factors, including smoking, family history, exposure to chemicals and work environments.
Based on their responses, 430 patients were considered to be at high risk for lung cancer.
In a study that began in 2001 with 1,000 people in Colorado who were seeing their primary care physician for general health issues, patients were asked to complete a five-minute questionnaire that collected information about lung cancer risk factors, including smoking, family history, exposure to chemicals and work environments.
Based on their responses, 430 patients were considered to be at high risk for lung cancer.
Anemia Drug May Raise Stroke Risk in Kidney Patients
November 02, 2009
Use of Aranesp should be reserved for the most seriously ill, experts say. A drug designed to fight anemia appears to double the risk of stroke in patients with diabetes and kidney disease without substantially improving their quality of life, a new study finds.
Darbepoetin alfa, marketed as Aranesp and known as an erythropoiesis-stimulating agent (ESA), is often prescribed for diabetic patients with chronic kidney disease and mild anemia.
"The benefits we assumed we would have by treating anemia were less striking and the risks were more striking," said lead researcher Dr.
Darbepoetin alfa, marketed as Aranesp and known as an erythropoiesis-stimulating agent (ESA), is often prescribed for diabetic patients with chronic kidney disease and mild anemia.
"The benefits we assumed we would have by treating anemia were less striking and the risks were more striking," said lead researcher Dr.
Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment Doesn't Promote Cancer
October 29, 2009
No added risk among patients taking immunosuppressants, research shows. Treatment with tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blockers doesn't increase rheumatoid arthritis patients' risk of cancer, new research has found.
TNF is a substance secreted by immune cells that regulates the immune system and plays a role in inflammation. TNF blockers are immunosuppressants that reduce inflammation in people with rheumatoid arthritis, but concerns have been raised that long-term use of the drugs may increase the risk of infections and cancer.
TNF is a substance secreted by immune cells that regulates the immune system and plays a role in inflammation. TNF blockers are immunosuppressants that reduce inflammation in people with rheumatoid arthritis, but concerns have been raised that long-term use of the drugs may increase the risk of infections and cancer.
Health Tip
Screening for Cancer
October 29, 2009
A list of available tests
The best way to get a good prognosis when it comes to cancer is to get diagnosed as early as possible .
The best way to get a good prognosis when it comes to cancer is to get diagnosed as early as possible .
Testicular Cancer Survivors Face Other Ills
October 28, 2009
Treatment can cause long-term neurological, circulatory problems, study finds. For men with testicular cancer, survival comes at a price: New research suggests that those who recover from the disease face higher risks of long-term illness unrelated to tumors.
"Current patients with testicular cancer should be informed about the risk of short-term and particularly long-term side effects of their highly effective treatment," said Sophie D. Fossa, a professor at the University of Oslo in Norway and lead author of a study in the November issue of the journal BJUI.
"Current patients with testicular cancer should be informed about the risk of short-term and particularly long-term side effects of their highly effective treatment," said Sophie D. Fossa, a professor at the University of Oslo in Norway and lead author of a study in the November issue of the journal BJUI.
Meditation May Reduce Stress in Breast Cancer Patients
October 28, 2009
Women report improved emotional and mental health in study. Transcendental meditation reduces stress and improves the emotional and mental well-being of breast cancer patients, new study findings suggest.
The two-year trial included 130 patients at Saint Joseph Hospital in Chicago, aged 55 and older, randomly assigned to either a transcendental meditation group or to a usual care control group. Quality of life was assessed every six months.
The two-year trial included 130 patients at Saint Joseph Hospital in Chicago, aged 55 and older, randomly assigned to either a transcendental meditation group or to a usual care control group. Quality of life was assessed every six months.
Mapping the Link Between Alcohol, Cancer
October 27, 2009
How it affects tumor cells is becoming less of a mystery, study finds. New research suggests that alcohol may boost the progression of cancer by stimulating a pathway inside cells.
The findings could have meaning for the prevention and treatment of cancer, which has been linked to alcohol use in some cases. In particular, scientists suspect that alcohol is connected to colon and breast cancer, although it's not known exactly how.
The findings could have meaning for the prevention and treatment of cancer, which has been linked to alcohol use in some cases. In particular, scientists suspect that alcohol is connected to colon and breast cancer, although it's not known exactly how.
Radiation From Medical Scans Soaring
October 27, 2009
Americans now get 6-fold more exposure than in 1980, researchers say. Americans' exposure to radiation from medical procedures has exploded over the past few decades, to six times the level of 1980, a new report shows.
In 2006, almost 380 million diagnostic and interventional radiological procedures were performed in the United States, on top of 18 million nuclear medicine examinations.
"Back in about 1980, 15 percent of radiation that the U.
In 2006, almost 380 million diagnostic and interventional radiological procedures were performed in the United States, on top of 18 million nuclear medicine examinations.
"Back in about 1980, 15 percent of radiation that the U.
Exposure to Holocaust May Have Raised Cancer Risks
October 26, 2009
Survivors offer clues to the impact of severe physical, psychosocial suffering, researchers say. Among Jewish survivors of World War II, those who were potentially exposed to the Holocaust have an increased risk of cancer, likely due to physical and mental stress, an Israeli study has found.
University of Haifa researchers compared cancer rates in more than 300,000 Israeli Jews who were born in Europe and immigrated to Israel either before World War II (non-exposed) or after the war (potentially exposed).
Compared to the non-exposed group, those in the potentially exposed group had a statistically significantly increased risk for cancer, especially breast and colorectal cancer, the researchers found.
University of Haifa researchers compared cancer rates in more than 300,000 Israeli Jews who were born in Europe and immigrated to Israel either before World War II (non-exposed) or after the war (potentially exposed).
Compared to the non-exposed group, those in the potentially exposed group had a statistically significantly increased risk for cancer, especially breast and colorectal cancer, the researchers found.
Bowel Disease Treatment May Raise Skin Cancer Risk
October 26, 2009
Rates of non-melanoma cancer higher in patients with Crohn's, ulcerative colitis, study finds. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients who are being treated with immunosuppressive medications may be at increased risk for non-melanoma skin cancer, a new U.S. study says.
Breast Abnormality Follow-Up Often Later in Black Women
October 26, 2009
Reasons for delay are unclear, researchers say. Black women experience a significant delay in follow-up after discovery of a breast abnormality, a U.S. study has found.
Blacks at Greater Risk for Colorectal Cancer
October 26, 2009
Race seems to play pivotal role, researchers say.
New research finds that blacks are at much higher risk of developing colorectal cancer than other groups of people, and they are more likely to be diagnosed at a later stage of the disease.
Researchers from the California Pacific Medical Center examined medical records regarding more than a half million cases of colorectal cancer that were diagnosed from 1973 to 2004.
They were scheduled to present their findings Monday at the American College of Gastroenterology annual meeting in San Diego.
New research finds that blacks are at much higher risk of developing colorectal cancer than other groups of people, and they are more likely to be diagnosed at a later stage of the disease.
Researchers from the California Pacific Medical Center examined medical records regarding more than a half million cases of colorectal cancer that were diagnosed from 1973 to 2004.
They were scheduled to present their findings Monday at the American College of Gastroenterology annual meeting in San Diego.
Is Smoking Tougher on Women?
October 25, 2009
Research suggests they're more susceptible to dangers of tobacco. Women may be more vulnerable than men to the carcinogens and other noxious substances in cigarette smoke, a growing body of research suggests.
In one study of nearly 700 people with lung cancer, Swiss experts found that women tended to be younger when they received the diagnosis, even though they smoked less than the men who developed lung cancer.
In another study, researchers from Harvard University and the University of Bergen in Norway evaluated more than 950 men and women with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), known to be linked to smoking.
In one study of nearly 700 people with lung cancer, Swiss experts found that women tended to be younger when they received the diagnosis, even though they smoked less than the men who developed lung cancer.
In another study, researchers from Harvard University and the University of Bergen in Norway evaluated more than 950 men and women with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), known to be linked to smoking.
HPV Vaccine No More Painful Than Other Shots
October 23, 2009
Reports that injection sting is excessive disputed in U.S. study. There have been reports that injections of the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine are especially painful, but a new study finds that they don't hurt more than any other shots.
Public health officials worried that reports of excess pain might prevent young women from getting the vaccine, which protects against a virus that can cause cervical cancer, some other kinds of cancer and genital warts. There was also concern that some women might not get all three required doses.
Public health officials worried that reports of excess pain might prevent young women from getting the vaccine, which protects against a virus that can cause cervical cancer, some other kinds of cancer and genital warts. There was also concern that some women might not get all three required doses.
Dying Wishes Followed More Often for Whites
October 22, 2009
Better communication needed for black patients, researchers say. Dying white cancer patients are more likely than black patients to have their end-of-life wishes respected, a new U.S. study shows.
Study Finds Less Toxic Treatment for Myeloma
October 22, 2009
Lower dose of standard medication leads to better outcome, researchers say. Cancer researchers say they have a better treatment for patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma than the current standard therapy.
Their study finds that treatment with lenalidomide plus low-dose dexamethasone is associated with better short-term survival and with lower toxicity than lenalidomide plus high-dose dexamethasone, which is the mainstay of therapy for the bone marrow cancer.
The study included more than 400 patients with untreated, symptomatic myeloma who received lenalidomide (25 milligrams for 21 days) plus a high dose of dexamethasone (40 milligrams on days one to four, nine to 12, and 17 to 20 of a 28-day cycle), or who received lenalidomide on the same schedule with a low dose of dexamethasone (40 milligrams on days one, eight, 15 and 22 of a 28-day cycle).
Their study finds that treatment with lenalidomide plus low-dose dexamethasone is associated with better short-term survival and with lower toxicity than lenalidomide plus high-dose dexamethasone, which is the mainstay of therapy for the bone marrow cancer.
The study included more than 400 patients with untreated, symptomatic myeloma who received lenalidomide (25 milligrams for 21 days) plus a high dose of dexamethasone (40 milligrams on days one to four, nine to 12, and 17 to 20 of a 28-day cycle), or who received lenalidomide on the same schedule with a low dose of dexamethasone (40 milligrams on days one, eight, 15 and 22 of a 28-day cycle).
American Cancer Society Stands By Cancer Screening Guidelines
October 21, 2009
Group has no plans to rethink testing for breast, prostate tumors, contrary to published report. The American Cancer Society says it is not currently rethinking its stance on cancer screening, as was widely reported Wednesday.
"We are not redoing or rethinking our guidelines at this time, nor are we going to restate our guidelines to emphasize the inadequacies of screening," said Dr. Len Lichtenfeld, deputy chief medical officer of the American Cancer Society.
"We are not redoing or rethinking our guidelines at this time, nor are we going to restate our guidelines to emphasize the inadequacies of screening," said Dr. Len Lichtenfeld, deputy chief medical officer of the American Cancer Society.
Radiation Treatments Made Safer for Cancer Patients
October 21, 2009
In mice, scientists say they can protect healthy tissue while radiating tumors. U.S. researchers say they may have found a way to protect healthy tissue and also increase tumor death when cancer patients undergo radiation therapy.
Votrient Approved for Advanced Kidney Cancer
October 20, 2009
Designed to thwart blood vessel growth in tumors Votrient (pazopanib) has been approved to treat advanced renal cell carcinoma, a form of kidney cancer in which cancerous cells invade the lining of small tubes in the kidney called tubules, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration said in a news release.
U.S. Relaxes Opposition to Medical Marijuana
October 19, 2009
Prosecutors will no longer go after users or suppliers in states that permit use of the drug. The Obama administration has decided it will no longer prosecute medical marijuana users or suppliers, provided they obey the laws of states that allow use of the drug for medicinal purposes.
The new guidelines, which were to be sent in a Justice Department memo to federal prosecutors on Monday, are designed to give priorities to U.S.
The new guidelines, which were to be sent in a Justice Department memo to federal prosecutors on Monday, are designed to give priorities to U.S.
More Doctors Need to Learn to Spot Skin Cancers
October 19, 2009
Resident physicians should be taught to screen for suspicious lesions, researchers say. Too few resident physicians have been trained in skin cancer examinations or watched or practiced the procedure, U.S. researchers report.
Drinking Your Way to Health? Perhaps Not
October 18, 2009
Despite potential heart benefits, other risks await, experts warn. Just about every month .
Strides Made in Tonsil Cancer Repair
October 16, 2009
New technique in palate reconstruction may make speaking, eating easier, study finds. Surgery on tonsil cancer patients can spell trouble for the palate, but now researchers say they've developed a technique that helps preserve the ability to speak clearly and eat most foods.
Traditionally, surgeons use big pieces of tissue to reconstruct the area after tonsil tumors are removed. But the patients who undergo this treatment can suffer "quality of life issues," study author Dr.
Traditionally, surgeons use big pieces of tissue to reconstruct the area after tonsil tumors are removed. But the patients who undergo this treatment can suffer "quality of life issues," study author Dr.
Breast Cancer Gene Tied to Diagnosis at Younger Age
October 16, 2009
Researchers concerned that disease may be developing earlier. Women with a high genetic risk of developing breast cancer are being diagnosed sooner than similar women in the past, which may suggest that tumors are developing earlier in the younger generation, researchers say.
The finding, presented at the 2009 Breast Cancer Symposium, held last week in San Francisco, could potentially affect how women are screened for breast cancer.
About 5 percent to 10 percent of breast cancer cases are thought to be connected to a genetic mutation that's also linked to ovarian cancer.
The finding, presented at the 2009 Breast Cancer Symposium, held last week in San Francisco, could potentially affect how women are screened for breast cancer.
About 5 percent to 10 percent of breast cancer cases are thought to be connected to a genetic mutation that's also linked to ovarian cancer.
Race Not a Factor if Breast Cancer Chemo Succeeds
October 14, 2009
All women have similar outcomes when there's no sign of disease following treatment, study finds. Among women with locally advanced breast cancer who undergo the same class of chemotherapy, race doesn't affect the odds of having no sign of disease at surgery, a new study finds.
Having no sign of the disease is considered a good sign that bodes well for a woman's prognosis, although it's not a guarantee that the cancer has vanished for good, the study authors noted.
"Our findings confirm [that having no sign of the disease] is a strong prognostic indicator and a surrogate for good survival, despite a patient's race, and that it's vital we continue to strive towards achieving this milestone for all women with breast cancer," said study co-author Dr.
Having no sign of the disease is considered a good sign that bodes well for a woman's prognosis, although it's not a guarantee that the cancer has vanished for good, the study authors noted.
"Our findings confirm [that having no sign of the disease] is a strong prognostic indicator and a surrogate for good survival, despite a patient's race, and that it's vital we continue to strive towards achieving this milestone for all women with breast cancer," said study co-author Dr.
Supervised Exercise May Relieve Fatigue During Chemotherapy
October 14, 2009
Mixed-intensity program improved vitality and well-being in study patients. Supervised exercise programs for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy can reduce fatigue and boost muscle strength, aerobic capacity and emotional well-being, a new study suggests.
Fatigue is one of the most frequent and troublesome side effects of chemotherapy, the study authors noted.
The new study included 269 cancer patients, aged 20 to 65, at two hospitals in Copenhagen, Denmark.
Fatigue is one of the most frequent and troublesome side effects of chemotherapy, the study authors noted.
The new study included 269 cancer patients, aged 20 to 65, at two hospitals in Copenhagen, Denmark.
Stem Cells Being Tested to Fight Pancreatic Cancer
October 14, 2009
It may be possible to stop tumor growth without harmful therapies, study suggests. New research is moving scientists closer to their goal of treating pancreatic cancer by killing tumors without hurting healthy tissue.
The researchers, who were scheduled to report their findings at the American College of Surgeons Clinical Congress, Oct. 11-15 in Chicago, have created a bioengineered "construct" that uses stem cells derived from bone marrow and a genetic product that stops tumor growth.
The researchers, who were scheduled to report their findings at the American College of Surgeons Clinical Congress, Oct. 11-15 in Chicago, have created a bioengineered "construct" that uses stem cells derived from bone marrow and a genetic product that stops tumor growth.
Study Suggests Link Between Cell Phones and Brain Tumors
October 13, 2009
Higher-quality data see danger from long-term use, new review finds. The latest study focusing on a possible cell phone-brain tumor connection finds a weak potential link between the two.
A review of existing research on the topic, published online Oct. 13 in the Journal of Clinical Oncology, discerned no overall link.
A review of existing research on the topic, published online Oct. 13 in the Journal of Clinical Oncology, discerned no overall link.
Mastectomy Not First Choice for Most Breast Cancer Patients
October 13, 2009
Three-fourths opt for breast-conserving treatments instead, study finds. Contrary to common belief, most women diagnosed with breast cancer are not turning to mastectomy as their first choice for treatment but are first trying more conservative approaches, such as lumpectomy, a new survey has found.
The survey, reported in the Oct. 14 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association, also found that U.
The survey, reported in the Oct. 14 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association, also found that U.
Dogs Helping to Advance Cancer Research
October 13, 2009
Treatment for canine tumors may yield insight into therapies for people, researchers say. Ordinary dogs with cancer could provide crucial insight into the human forms of the disease, potentially leading to better treatments and screening for tumors, researchers from the U.S. National Cancer Institute report.
With Hormone Therapy, Tender Breasts May Signal Cancer Risk
October 12, 2009
Symptom might warrant a reassessment of treatment, experts suggest. Breast tenderness in women taking estrogen/progestin hormone replacement therapy could signal increased chances of developing breast cancer, a new study says.
Women taking estrogen plus progestin who reported developing breast tenderness after starting the hormone therapy were 48 percent more likely to develop invasive breast cancer than women on hormone therapy who did not experience breast tenderness.
Researchers said more study is needed before they would recommend that women who experience this symptom discontinue taking the hormones.
Women taking estrogen plus progestin who reported developing breast tenderness after starting the hormone therapy were 48 percent more likely to develop invasive breast cancer than women on hormone therapy who did not experience breast tenderness.
Researchers said more study is needed before they would recommend that women who experience this symptom discontinue taking the hormones.
HPV Tied to Rare Head-and-Neck Cancer
October 09, 2009
Origins of nasopharyngeal infection may mirror tonsil cancer epidemic, researchers say. Human papillomavirus (HPV) appears to be linked to an increase in cases of a rare type of head and neck cancer, a new study has found.
Nasopharyngeal cancer .
Nasopharyngeal cancer .
Vitamin D Good for Breast Cancer Patients
October 09, 2009
Supplements help fight treatment-related bone loss, researchers say. Many breast cancer patients have low levels of vitamin D, which could lead to weaker bones and increased risk of fractures, say U.S. researchers who recommend high doses of vitamin D for them.
Many Childhood Cancer Survivors Never Marry
October 08, 2009
Certain forms of disease, treatment linked to greater likelihood of remaining single, study finds. Childhood cancer survivors are 20 percent to 25 percent more likely to remain unmarried than their siblings or people in the general population, a U.S. study has found.
HIV Patients More Prone to 7 Kinds of Cancer
October 08, 2009
Study found early treatment of infection could slow start of malignancies. The weakened immune systems of people with HIV puts them at increased risk for at least seven types of cancer, but early diagnosis and treatment of HIV infection could help delay the onset of some of these cancers, a new study suggests.
French researchers examined the incidence of three AIDS-defining cancers (Kaposi's sarcoma, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and cervical cancer) and four non-AIDS-defining cancers (Hodgkin's lymphoma, lung cancer, liver cancer and anal cancer) in 52,278 HIV-infected people.
The study authors also analyzed the association between immunodeficiency, viral load, antiretroviral treatment and the onset of the seven cancers.
French researchers examined the incidence of three AIDS-defining cancers (Kaposi's sarcoma, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and cervical cancer) and four non-AIDS-defining cancers (Hodgkin's lymphoma, lung cancer, liver cancer and anal cancer) in 52,278 HIV-infected people.
The study authors also analyzed the association between immunodeficiency, viral load, antiretroviral treatment and the onset of the seven cancers.
Stem Cell Research Offers Hope for Colon Cancer Vaccine
October 08, 2009
Mouse study suggests it may be possible to generate an immune response to cancer. Human stem cells may provide a means of creating a vaccine against colon cancer and other types of cancers, say American and Chinese scientists.
"Cancer and stem cells share many molecular and biological features. By immunizing the host with stem cells, we are able to 'fool' the immune system to believe that cancer cells are present and thus to initiate a tumor-combating immune program," Dr.
"Cancer and stem cells share many molecular and biological features. By immunizing the host with stem cells, we are able to 'fool' the immune system to believe that cancer cells are present and thus to initiate a tumor-combating immune program," Dr.
Liver Cancer Patients May Get Hope
October 07, 2009
Finding could help identify patients who will benefit from interferon therapy, researchers say. A short strand of RNA (microRNA) may help doctors identify liver cancer patients who would benefit from treatment with interferon, say U.S. and Chinese researchers.
'Lab on a Chip' Might Speed Breast Cancer Monitoring
October 07, 2009
Device makes measuring estrogen faster and simpler, researchers say. A pocket-size device under development could soon help monitor how well breast cancer treatments are working and help assess breast cancer risk by measuring levels of the hormone estrogen.
''We've developed a 'lab on a chip,' which is useful for making quantitative measurements of estrogen in samples of blood or tissue," said Aaron Wheeler, the Canada research chair of bioanalytical chemistry at the University of Toronto and a co-author of a report on the device in the Oct. 7 issue of Science Translational Medicine.
''We've developed a 'lab on a chip,' which is useful for making quantitative measurements of estrogen in samples of blood or tissue," said Aaron Wheeler, the Canada research chair of bioanalytical chemistry at the University of Toronto and a co-author of a report on the device in the Oct. 7 issue of Science Translational Medicine.
Most Childhood Cancer Survivors Have Healthy Babies
October 06, 2009
But pregnancies should be closely monitored, researchers say. Most female and male childhood cancer survivors have normal pregnancies and healthy children, according to two U.S. studies.
Gene Discovery May Advance Head and Neck Cancer Therapy
October 05, 2009
Expanded list of genetic links might improve diagnosis, treatment, researchers say. In a finding that could have a major impact on the diagnosis and treatment of one of the most deadly types of cancer, U.S. researchers have identified 231 potential new genes associated with head and neck cancer.
Focused Radiation Protects Tumor Patients' Brain Function
October 05, 2009
Researchers recommend standard treatment with monitoring over whole-brain radiotherapy. Brain tumor patients experience more learning and memory problems when whole-brain radiation therapy (WBRT) is added to standard stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS), researchers have found.
SRS delivers narrowly focused beams of radiation to the tumor site.
The study included 58 patients with one to three newly diagnosed brain metastases who were randomly selected to receive SRS alone (30 patients) or SRS plus WBRT (28 patients).
SRS delivers narrowly focused beams of radiation to the tumor site.
The study included 58 patients with one to three newly diagnosed brain metastases who were randomly selected to receive SRS alone (30 patients) or SRS plus WBRT (28 patients).
New Classification Proposed for Stomach Cancers
October 02, 2009
Categorizing by pathway, not cell type, may lead to better treatments, researchers say. A new way to classify stomach cancers could lead to more effective treatments and improved long-term survival for people with the disease, researchers say.
For a study published online Oct. 1 in PLoS Genetics, the researchers analyzed 301 stomach tumors from people in Australia, Singapore and Great Britain, classifying the cancers according to the signaling pathways the tumors use to grow and spread.
For a study published online Oct. 1 in PLoS Genetics, the researchers analyzed 301 stomach tumors from people in Australia, Singapore and Great Britain, classifying the cancers according to the signaling pathways the tumors use to grow and spread.
Health Tip
Getting Cancer Support
October 02, 2009
It may help you feel more in control People struggling with a cancer diagnosis and treatment may need a lot of extra help and support.
The American Cancer Society offers these support suggestions for people with cancer, and their loved ones:
Find a support group that meets a local hospital, by telephone or online.
Enlist a nursing service that offers support, and if needed, home health care.
The American Cancer Society offers these support suggestions for people with cancer, and their loved ones:
Find a support group that meets a local hospital, by telephone or online.
Enlist a nursing service that offers support, and if needed, home health care.
Non-AIDS-Related Cancers Growing Among HIV Patients
September 30, 2009
Possible reasons for increased rates explored by researchers. Non-AIDS-related cancers such as anal and lung cancer have become more common among HIV patients than among people without HIV since antiretroviral therapies were introduced in the mid-1990s to treat people with the virus, U.S. researchers say.
Breast Cancer Death Rates Continue to Drop 2% Annually
September 30, 2009
But mortality still higher among black women than white women, U.S. report says. Fewer women in the United States are dying from breast cancer, but disparities in death rates still exist between whites and blacks, a new report shows.
Deaths from breast cancer have dropped more than 2 percent each year since 1990. And in the past decade that decline in deaths has been shared by black, Hispanic and white women.
Deaths from breast cancer have dropped more than 2 percent each year since 1990. And in the past decade that decline in deaths has been shared by black, Hispanic and white women.
Social Isolation Adversely Affects Breast Cancer
September 29, 2009
In mouse study, those living alone had larger tumors than those in groups. A socially isolated, stressful environment can speed up the growth of breast cancer, researchers studying the effects of stress in animal models reported Tuesday.
Social isolation can actually change the expression of genes important in the growth of mammary gland tumors, according to Dr. Suzanne D.
Social isolation can actually change the expression of genes important in the growth of mammary gland tumors, according to Dr. Suzanne D.
Eating in America Still Unhealthy
CDC
September 29, 2009
State-by-state report finds too few people meet fruit and veggie guidelines. Most Americans don't eat the recommended amounts of fruits and vegetables, says a U.S. government study released Tuesday.
Younger Women With Colon Cancer Outlive Men
September 29, 2009
Estrogen could explain discrepancy in survival rates, researchers say. A new study suggests that estrogen or other hormones could help younger women with colorectal cancer live longer than men with the disease.
"We've known for a while that estrogen prevents colorectal cancer, but this is the first study to suggest it may improve outcomes once you have colorectal cancer," said study co-author Dr. Heinz-Josef Lenz, co-director of gastrointestinal oncology and colorectal cancer at the University of Southern California/Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, in a statement.
"We've known for a while that estrogen prevents colorectal cancer, but this is the first study to suggest it may improve outcomes once you have colorectal cancer," said study co-author Dr. Heinz-Josef Lenz, co-director of gastrointestinal oncology and colorectal cancer at the University of Southern California/Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, in a statement.
More Women Having Other Breast Removed
September 28, 2009
But experts say there's no proof that procedure extends survival of cancer patients. Many more women are deciding to have a healthy breast removed after being diagnosed with breast cancer in the other.
But there's little evidence to suggest that this practice is actually beneficial in terms of improving survival, say the authors of a study published Sept. 28 in Cancer.
But there's little evidence to suggest that this practice is actually beneficial in terms of improving survival, say the authors of a study published Sept. 28 in Cancer.
Vitamin D May Improve Melanoma Survival
September 27, 2009
But levels are too low in many Americans, researchers say. Higher levels of vitamin D are linked to less severe, less deadly melanoma lesions in people with skin cancer, new research suggests.
The findings provide more support for the idea that vitamin D is crucial to skin health. Many Americans, however, don't get enough of it, perhaps because they limit sun exposure and drink less milk than in the past.
The findings provide more support for the idea that vitamin D is crucial to skin health. Many Americans, however, don't get enough of it, perhaps because they limit sun exposure and drink less milk than in the past.
Exercise May Prevent Prostate Cancer
Study
September 25, 2009
Report adds to debate over the value of exercise as a protector for men. Regular exercise may help protect men from prostate cancer, says a new study.
U.S.
U.S.
Angst May Protect Against Some Skin Cancer
September 25, 2009
Study finds less squamous cell carcinoma in mice under short-term stress. Periods of short-term stress boost the immune system and protect against a certain type of skin cancer in mice, U.S. researchers say.
New Hope for Treatment of Pancreatic Cancer
September 25, 2009
By inhibiting key enzyme, researchers shrank tumors, prolonged survival in mice. Inhibiting the action of an enzyme called TAK-1 reverses pancreatic cancer resistance to chemotherapy, a finding that could lead to the development of a new way to treat the disease, researchers say.
Pancreatic cancer is resistant to every currently available anti-cancer treatment.
"During the past few years we have been studying the role played by a cytokine or regulatory protein called transforming growth factor-beta [TGFbeta] in the development of pancreatic cancer.
Pancreatic cancer is resistant to every currently available anti-cancer treatment.
"During the past few years we have been studying the role played by a cytokine or regulatory protein called transforming growth factor-beta [TGFbeta] in the development of pancreatic cancer.
New Treatment May Beat Melanoma
September 24, 2009
In trials, advanced cancers shrunk rapidly, researchers say. An experimental treatment for advanced melanoma promotes rapid shrinking of tumors, according to a new study.
The phase I extension trial includes patients with the cancer-causing mutation of the BRAF gene, which is associated with about 50 percent of melanomas and 5 percent of colorectal cancers.
The patients were given 960 milligrams of PLX4032 twice a day.
The phase I extension trial includes patients with the cancer-causing mutation of the BRAF gene, which is associated with about 50 percent of melanomas and 5 percent of colorectal cancers.
The patients were given 960 milligrams of PLX4032 twice a day.
Leukemia Drug in High Dose Helps Survival
September 23, 2009
Two trials find daunorubicin benefits certain subsets of patients. Patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML), take note: A new standard of care is emerging .
After-Effects of Chemotherapy May Include Memory Problems
September 23, 2009
Lack of concentration, thinking difficulties reported by breast cancer survivors, researchers say. Chemotherapy can save the lives of people with cancer, but new research suggests it may have devastating effects on the brain.
Many cancer patients who receive chemotherapy report "chemobrain" .
Many cancer patients who receive chemotherapy report "chemobrain" .
Hormone Therapy for Prostate Cancer Raises Heart Risks
September 22, 2009
Treatment methods should take into account side effects, researchers say. Hormone therapy to treat advanced prostate cancer can increase the risk of heart disease, but some types of hormone therapy appear to be safer than others, new research has found.
The study included 30,642 Swedish men with either locally advanced prostate cancer or prostate cancer that had spread (metastatic cancer), who had received hormone therapy as primary treatment for their cancer.
The study findings were scheduled to be presented Tuesday at the European Cancer Organization meeting in Berlin.
The study included 30,642 Swedish men with either locally advanced prostate cancer or prostate cancer that had spread (metastatic cancer), who had received hormone therapy as primary treatment for their cancer.
The study findings were scheduled to be presented Tuesday at the European Cancer Organization meeting in Berlin.
Blood Tests May Spot Colon Cancer
September 23, 2009
Easier detection method might encourage more people to get screened, experts say. Simple blood tests may someday become a noninvasive and cost-effective way to detect colon cancer, two new studies suggest.
Researchers were to present studies in Berlin, Germany, on Monday that could offer an alternative to colonoscopy or fecal occult blood tests for diagnosing colorectal cancer, the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States and Europe.
"We have found biomarkers that can be used to screen for colorectal cancer," said Dr.
Researchers were to present studies in Berlin, Germany, on Monday that could offer an alternative to colonoscopy or fecal occult blood tests for diagnosing colorectal cancer, the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States and Europe.
"We have found biomarkers that can be used to screen for colorectal cancer," said Dr.
Leukemia Cells May Hide in Fat Tissue
September 22, 2009
Finding explains why obese children have higher relapse rates, researchers say. Leukemia cells can hide in fat tissue to evade chemotherapy, which may explain why obese children with leukemia are more likely to develop chemotherapy resistance and have higher relapse rates, researchers say.
A previous study found that obese children with leukemia are 50 percent more likely to relapse than lean children.
In this new study, researchers observed that obese mice with leukemia had higher relapse rates than lean mice after they were treated with the first-line chemotherapy drug vincristine.
A previous study found that obese children with leukemia are 50 percent more likely to relapse than lean children.
In this new study, researchers observed that obese mice with leukemia had higher relapse rates than lean mice after they were treated with the first-line chemotherapy drug vincristine.
Immune Cells Offer Hope for Injured Lungs
September 21, 2009
Discovery in mice shows promise for treating potentially fatal wounds, researchers say. New research in mice is shedding light on how a special group of immune cells heal badly injured lungs. The next step is to find a way to boost the cells in patients or get them to work harder when needed, researchers say.
"Our study results are the critical first leads in finding treatments for a clinical condition that until now has had none, despite its high mortality," study senior investigator Dr.
"Our study results are the critical first leads in finding treatments for a clinical condition that until now has had none, despite its high mortality," study senior investigator Dr.
Many Teens Circumvent Tanning Bed Laws
September 21, 2009
Though operators largely follow the rules, the laws are too lax, study shows. Tanning bed operators appear to be largely abiding by parental consent laws, but the laws don't go far enough in limiting teens' exposure to harmful ultraviolet rays, a new study shows.
Tanning bed operators told data collectors posing as 15-year-old girls that as long as they had parental consent, they could tan as often as they wished, the researchers said.
That runs counter to a U.
Tanning bed operators told data collectors posing as 15-year-old girls that as long as they had parental consent, they could tan as often as they wished, the researchers said.
That runs counter to a U.
Head, Neck Cancer Treatment Often Not Completed
September 21, 2009
Surgical patients more likely to finish radiation course, study finds. Incomplete and interrupted radiation treatment is a common problem among Medicare patients with head and neck cancer, a new study has found.
Researchers analyzed data from 5,086 Medicare patients diagnosed with head and neck cancer between 1997 and 2003 and found that nearly 40 percent of them experienced interruptions in radiation therapy or failed to complete the course of therapy.
People who had surgery before radiation treatment were more likely to complete the treatment without interruption than were those who did not have surgery (70 percent versus 52 percent).
Researchers analyzed data from 5,086 Medicare patients diagnosed with head and neck cancer between 1997 and 2003 and found that nearly 40 percent of them experienced interruptions in radiation therapy or failed to complete the course of therapy.
People who had surgery before radiation treatment were more likely to complete the treatment without interruption than were those who did not have surgery (70 percent versus 52 percent).
Researchers Propose Improved Cervical Cancer Screening
September 21, 2009
New method uses risk estimation to guide management, experts say. A new tool to determine a woman's risk of developing cervical cancer is being developed by researchers at the U.S. National Cancer Institute.
New Chemo Regimen May Benefit Ovarian Cancer Patients
September 20, 2009
Dose-dense treatment improved survival, but too toxic for some: study. Dose-dense chemotherapy improves survival in women with advanced ovarian cancer, Japanese researchers say.
Currently, paclitaxel and carboplatin given every three weeks is considered standard first-line chemotherapy for advanced epithelial ovarian cancer. However, dose-dense weekly treatment with paclitaxel is seen as a way to increase progression-free and overall
survival in these patients, according to the new study findings.
Currently, paclitaxel and carboplatin given every three weeks is considered standard first-line chemotherapy for advanced epithelial ovarian cancer. However, dose-dense weekly treatment with paclitaxel is seen as a way to increase progression-free and overall
survival in these patients, according to the new study findings.
Hormone Therapy May Make Lung Cancer More Likely
September 20, 2009
Expert says finding supports doubts about value of treatment. Taking a combination form of hormone replacement therapy, which includes both estrogen and progestin, increases a woman's risk for dying from lung cancer, a new study has found.
The finding stems from an analysis of data from the Women's Health Initiative trial on 16,608 postmenopausal women, aged 50 to 79, in the United States who had been randomly assigned to take either a once-daily tablet of 0.625 milligrams conjugated equine estrogen plus 2.
The finding stems from an analysis of data from the Women's Health Initiative trial on 16,608 postmenopausal women, aged 50 to 79, in the United States who had been randomly assigned to take either a once-daily tablet of 0.625 milligrams conjugated equine estrogen plus 2.
New Drug May Offer Hope to Some With Lung Cancer
September 20, 2009
Pemetrexed improves survival with advanced non-small-cell tumors, study finds. Maintenance therapy with the drug pemetrexed improves the survival of people with non-small-cell lung cancer whose disease has not progressed after chemotherapy, a new study has found..
Scientists May Know How Lung Cancer Spreads
September 17, 2009
Preventing metastasis 'could have a huge impact on survival,' researcher says. New insight into how primary lung cancer turns into invasive, or metastatic, cancer could lead to treatments that improve patient survival, U.S. scientists say.
Hepatitis B Vaccination Protects Against Liver Cancer
September 16, 2009
Immunization program for newborns has lasting effects beyond childhood, researchers say. Vaccination at birth against hepatitis B virus greatly reduces the risk of liver cancer in young adulthood, new research suggests.
In a 20-year study that followed infants who were vaccinated against the liver disease in Taiwan beginning in 1984, when a universal vaccination program went into effect, Dr. Mei-Hwei Chang, of the Department of Pediatrics at the National Taiwan University Hospital in Taipei, and colleagues looked at young people who had developed liver cancer.
In a 20-year study that followed infants who were vaccinated against the liver disease in Taiwan beginning in 1984, when a universal vaccination program went into effect, Dr. Mei-Hwei Chang, of the Department of Pediatrics at the National Taiwan University Hospital in Taipei, and colleagues looked at young people who had developed liver cancer.
Celiac Disease May Raise Risk of Dying
September 15, 2009
People with with mild form of the digestive disorder have slightly higher death rate, study shows People with milder symptoms of celiac disease face a slightly higher risk of dying than other people, a new study finds.
Cancer and heart disease were the main causes of death in the patients studied, and the risk was higher in people who had had small-intestinal biopsies in childhood, the researchers found.
Celiac disease affects about 1 percent of people in the Western world, the researchers said, and it is triggered by exposure to gluten, a protein found in barley, wheat and rye.
Cancer and heart disease were the main causes of death in the patients studied, and the risk was higher in people who had had small-intestinal biopsies in childhood, the researchers found.
Celiac disease affects about 1 percent of people in the Western world, the researchers said, and it is triggered by exposure to gluten, a protein found in barley, wheat and rye.
For Hispanics, a Unique Cancer Profile Emerges
September 15, 2009
Report finds they're less likely to die of cancer but more apt to have certain malignancies. Hispanics in the United States are less likely to die from cancer than non-Hispanic whites, but they have higher rates of cancers linked to infections, including stomach, liver and cervix malignancies, a new report says.
At first glance, Hispanics' lower death rate from cancer seems to be good news, but one explanation is that the Hispanic population skews younger than the general U.S.
At first glance, Hispanics' lower death rate from cancer seems to be good news, but one explanation is that the Hispanic population skews younger than the general U.S.
Medications That Lower Breast Cancer Risk Carry Other Dangers
September 14, 2009
Analysis notes tamoxifen, raloxifene can up chances of other cancers, clots. Medications given to women at high risk for developing breast cancer do reduce their cancer risk, but the drugs carry other health risks, a new analysis suggests.
That was the conclusion of researchers who looked at numerous published studies, including randomized clinical trials and a head-to-head assessment of the medications used for risk reduction. Those include tamoxifen, raloxifene and tibolone.
That was the conclusion of researchers who looked at numerous published studies, including randomized clinical trials and a head-to-head assessment of the medications used for risk reduction. Those include tamoxifen, raloxifene and tibolone.
Too Few Latinos Get Colorectal Cancer Tests
September 14, 2009
Language barrier could explain lower screening rates, researchers say. Language barriers may contribute to lower screening rates for colorectal cancer among Mexican-Americans, a San Diego State University study suggests.
A 2005 telephone survey of close to 17,000 older Californian residents found that two thirds of those of Mexican descent needed another person to help them talk with doctors .
A 2005 telephone survey of close to 17,000 older Californian residents found that two thirds of those of Mexican descent needed another person to help them talk with doctors .
Common Diabetes Drug May Fight Cancer
September 14, 2009
Metformin-chemo combination shrinks tumors, delays recurrence in mice: study Adding the widely used diabetes drug metformin to conventional chemotherapy shows promise for treating and delaying recurrence of breast cancer, new research suggests.
In lab tests using mice with breast cancer, researchers found that the drug combination suppressed the cancer stem cells thought to drive tumor progression.
"We discovered that metformin selectively kills cancer stem cells.
In lab tests using mice with breast cancer, researchers found that the drug combination suppressed the cancer stem cells thought to drive tumor progression.
"We discovered that metformin selectively kills cancer stem cells.
Routine Testing Would Improve Herceptin Use in Breast Cancer
September 14, 2009
Targeted drug therapy often doesn't reach the right patients, study finds. New research suggests that the anti-breast cancer drug trastuzumab, also known as Herceptin, isn't reaching its full potential. Many patients aren't receiving tests that determine whether it's appropriate or are taking it when they don't need to.
Under current guidelines, women with breast cancer in its early stages should receive tests to see if Herceptin might be appropriate for them.
Under current guidelines, women with breast cancer in its early stages should receive tests to see if Herceptin might be appropriate for them.
Depression May Hasten Cancer Death
September 14, 2009
Psychological screenings and treatment are warranted: study. An analysis of research suggests that depression can rob people with cancer of years of life, raising questions about the need to screen patients for psychological problems.
"We found an increased risk of death in patients who report more depressive symptoms than others and also in patients who have been diagnosed with a depressive disorder compared to patients who have not," said University of British Columbia graduate student Jillian Satin, co-author of a study published online Sept. 14 in the journal Cancer.
"We found an increased risk of death in patients who report more depressive symptoms than others and also in patients who have been diagnosed with a depressive disorder compared to patients who have not," said University of British Columbia graduate student Jillian Satin, co-author of a study published online Sept. 14 in the journal Cancer.
Scientists Spot Key to Breast Cancer Spread
September 11, 2009
Combination of proteins sparks disease growth, research shows. Too much of two proteins can send noninvasive breast cancer into a deadly spread through the body, researchers say.
In a study at the University of Texas M.D.
In a study at the University of Texas M.D.
Scientists Spot Clue to Cancer's Aggressiveness
September 08, 2009
They hope molecular signature shows when disease will respond to cancer drug. Researchers say they have gained insight into whether certain aggressive cancers .
Gum Disease May Increase Head and Neck Cancer Risk
September 08, 2009
The threat seems the same for smokers, nonsmokers, study finds Taking good care of your teeth may help cut your risk of developing head or neck cancer, suggests a new study that links a gum disease to such tumors.
Having chronic periodontitis, a gum disease involving the progressive loss of the bone and soft tissue attached to the teeth, appeared to increase one's odds of developing head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, especially in the mouth and throat.
The findings was published online Sept.
Having chronic periodontitis, a gum disease involving the progressive loss of the bone and soft tissue attached to the teeth, appeared to increase one's odds of developing head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, especially in the mouth and throat.
The findings was published online Sept.
Colon Cancer Screenings Still Too Low
Study
September 08, 2009
Even when Americans have health care 'safety net' in place, rates barely budge, report finds. Despite highly publicized education campaigns and widespread agreement about the importance of colorectal cancer screening, only 61 percent of Americans who should be screened do so, new research finds.
Rates for minorities, the uninsured and other vulnerable groups are lower still, with only 22 percent of lower-income people served by a "safety net" health system in Texas being screened.
Using data from a health system in Tarrant County, Tex.
Rates for minorities, the uninsured and other vulnerable groups are lower still, with only 22 percent of lower-income people served by a "safety net" health system in Texas being screened.
Using data from a health system in Tarrant County, Tex.
Family, Friends Influence Breast Cancer Decisions
September 03, 2009
Patients' supporters often play role in treatment discussions, study finds. Family and friends don't just serve as emotional support for breast cancer patients, they also help patients decide which kind of surgery to have, a new study has found.
About three-quarters of patients surveyed brought a family member or friend to their first appointment with a surgeon, and the accompanying person exerted influence on the patient, the University of Michigan researchers noted.
In particular, women who had a friend or family member accompany them to the first appointment were more likely to receive a mastectomy, compared with women who went alone.
About three-quarters of patients surveyed brought a family member or friend to their first appointment with a surgeon, and the accompanying person exerted influence on the patient, the University of Michigan researchers noted.
In particular, women who had a friend or family member accompany them to the first appointment were more likely to receive a mastectomy, compared with women who went alone.
Pancreatic Cancer Deaths Higher for Blacks
September 02, 2009
Accounting for risk factors made no difference in disparity, researchers find. Blacks have a significantly higher risk of dying from pancreatic cancer than whites, a new U.S. study has found.
Blood Test May Spot Pancreatic Cancer Early
September 01, 2009
Researchers hope to detect the disease while it is still treatable. Texas scientists say they have found small molecules in the blood that can spot pancreatic cancer, a finding that could have diagnostic implications in the future.
Levels of these molecules, called microRNAs, are elevated in patients suffering from pancreatic cancer, the fourth-leading cancer killer in the United States. The disease usually isn't diagnosed until it is in an advanced stage, when treatment is all but ineffective, the researchers say.
Levels of these molecules, called microRNAs, are elevated in patients suffering from pancreatic cancer, the fourth-leading cancer killer in the United States. The disease usually isn't diagnosed until it is in an advanced stage, when treatment is all but ineffective, the researchers say.
New Therapy Spares Organ in Early Esophageal Cancer
September 01, 2009
Less invasive procedure shaves off lesions, preserves esophagus, researchers say. Early-stage cancers of the esophagus can be treated effectively by less invasive, organ-sparing endoscopic therapy, a new study has found.
This is good news, as esophageal cancer arising from Barrett's esophagus is increasing in frequency faster than any other cancer in the United States, and 90 percent of patients die within five years of being diagnosed, according to a news release from the Mayo Clinic.
Esophageal cancer is diagnosed in its early stages about 20 percent of the time, Dr.
This is good news, as esophageal cancer arising from Barrett's esophagus is increasing in frequency faster than any other cancer in the United States, and 90 percent of patients die within five years of being diagnosed, according to a news release from the Mayo Clinic.
Esophageal cancer is diagnosed in its early stages about 20 percent of the time, Dr.
Blood Thinner May Prevent Chemo-Related Clots
September 01, 2009
Daily injection cut risk in half for Italian study patients. Cancer patients who receive chemotherapy are more likely to develop blood clots than other people, but now a new study says a blood-thinning drug could cut the risk in half.
Besides posing a significant risk of problems in the heart, brain and lungs, blood clots are especially difficult to treat in cancer patients and can lead to interruptions in chemotherapy. They can also greatly increase costs in patients who already face high expenses, the researchers noted in their study published online Aug.
Besides posing a significant risk of problems in the heart, brain and lungs, blood clots are especially difficult to treat in cancer patients and can lead to interruptions in chemotherapy. They can also greatly increase costs in patients who already face high expenses, the researchers noted in their study published online Aug.
Chemotherapy Linked to Sleep-Wake Cycle Disruptions
September 01, 2009
Biological clock out of sync in patients being treated for breast cancer, study finds. New research suggests that chemotherapy in breast cancer patients disrupts cycles of sleep and wakefulness, and continued treatment leads to worse and more lasting problems.
In the study, researchers recruited 95 women with breast cancer who were scheduled to receive chemotherapy. Their average age was 51.
In the study, researchers recruited 95 women with breast cancer who were scheduled to receive chemotherapy. Their average age was 51.
Prostate Cancer Over-Diagnosed
Study
September 01, 2009
The result is over-treatment for many men, researchers say. Mass screening for prostate cancer with a test for prostate-specific antigen (PSA) has led to mass over-diagnosis and over-treatment, a new study contends.
Since the PSA screening test came into use in 1986, federal government data show that the number of prostate cancer cases in the United States has risen substantially, said the report in the Aug. 31 online issue of the Journal of the National Cancer Institute.
Since the PSA screening test came into use in 1986, federal government data show that the number of prostate cancer cases in the United States has risen substantially, said the report in the Aug. 31 online issue of the Journal of the National Cancer Institute.
Harm Begins With a Few Cigarettes, a Little Smog
August 31, 2009
Levels of toxins in air don't have to be high to be hazardous, studies find. Even a little bit of poison in the air .
New Robotic Arm Has Softer Surgical Touch
August 31, 2009
Device helps find tumors during minimally invasive surgery, researchers say. A robotic surgical arm that can gently "feel" for cancerous tumors during minimally invasive surgery has been developed by Canadian scientists.
The device, invented at the University of Western Ontario and at Canadian Surgical Technologies and Advanced Robotics, will help surgeons better isolate tumors from softer surrounding tissue and, it is hoped, improve cancer survival rates, according to the study published in the September issue of the International Journal of Robotics Research.
During an operation, surgeons often use their hands to palpate (or gently feel) for tumors, which tend to have a different texture from healthy tissue and can shift in the body after a CT scan and other pre-surgical imaging tests.
The device, invented at the University of Western Ontario and at Canadian Surgical Technologies and Advanced Robotics, will help surgeons better isolate tumors from softer surrounding tissue and, it is hoped, improve cancer survival rates, according to the study published in the September issue of the International Journal of Robotics Research.
During an operation, surgeons often use their hands to palpate (or gently feel) for tumors, which tend to have a different texture from healthy tissue and can shift in the body after a CT scan and other pre-surgical imaging tests.
Genetic Clues May Lead to New Skin Cancer Therapies
August 31, 2009
Mutant genes linked to melanoma could be targets for treatment, researchers say. Scientists have isolated a group of genetic mutations involved in the growth of melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. Their work may lead to therapies with existing drugs that target the same mutations.
Led by Yardena Samuels of the National Human Genome Research Institute, the research team from the U.
Led by Yardena Samuels of the National Human Genome Research Institute, the research team from the U.
Colon Cancer Stopped in Its Tracks in Swiss Study
August 28, 2009
Gene-based treatment could block tumors, prevent recurrence, researchers say. Swiss scientists report that they may have found a way to stop colon cancer in its tracks by tinkering with a genetic pathway that allows cells to communicate with one another.
The treatment potentially could help prevent colon cancer from reaching advanced stages and moving to other organs.
The research, published Aug.
The treatment potentially could help prevent colon cancer from reaching advanced stages and moving to other organs.
The research, published Aug.
Steady Improvements Seen for Young Blood Cancer Patients
August 27, 2009
Survival has significantly increased, research shows. American teens and young adults newly diagnosed with blood-related cancers now live longer than they did in the 1980s, new research has found.
Researchers analyzed data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) database, a population-based cancer registry in the United States. They compared data from 1981-1985 with data from 2001-2005 and found significant improvements in survival for patients with five blood-related cancers.
Researchers analyzed data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) database, a population-based cancer registry in the United States. They compared data from 1981-1985 with data from 2001-2005 and found significant improvements in survival for patients with five blood-related cancers.
Get Ready for Gruesome Cigarette Warnings
August 27, 2009
Graphic images of diseased body parts could become the norm on packaging. Would a gruesome picture of a cancer-ravaged mouth with rotting teeth make you think twice about buying a pack of cigarettes?
That's the goal of new federal regulations expected to go into effect within three years. The rules will require tobacco companies to cover at least half of the front and back of packages with graphic .
That's the goal of new federal regulations expected to go into effect within three years. The rules will require tobacco companies to cover at least half of the front and back of packages with graphic .
Advice Helps Prevent Pain After Breast Cancer Surgery
August 26, 2009
Patients benefit from information on how to reduce risk of lymphedema, experts say. Patients recovering from breast cancer surgery have a greater chance of avoiding a painful and debilitating post-surgery condition if they get a little extra information, a study has found.
Lymphedema is a condition that causes a debilitating swelling of the extremities following breast cancer surgery. Symptoms also include pain, fatigue, numbness and reduced limb mobility.
Lymphedema is a condition that causes a debilitating swelling of the extremities following breast cancer surgery. Symptoms also include pain, fatigue, numbness and reduced limb mobility.
Blood Flow Mismatch Seen in Pancreatic Cancers
August 26, 2009
Findings may help explain why many patients respond poorly to chemo and radiation. Finnish researchers say they have identified a blood-flow metabolism mismatch that predicts pancreatic cancer aggressiveness.
The investigators used a three-dimensional imaging technique called positron emission tomography (PET) to measure blood flow and glucose consumption .
The investigators used a three-dimensional imaging technique called positron emission tomography (PET) to measure blood flow and glucose consumption .
Sen. Edward M. Kennedy Dies at 77
August 26, 2009
Diagnosed with brain tumor last year, his relentless optimism, new therapies helped him exceed expectations, experts say. Sen. Edward M. Kennedy, the last surviving brother in a unique American political dynasty and one of the most influential senators in history, died late Tuesday night at his summer home on Cape Cod after a 15-month battle with brain cancer.
Tobacco Use Kills 6 Million People Annually
Report
August 25, 2009
And costs the global economy $500 billion each year. Tobacco use kills an estimated six million people worldwide each year and drains $500 billion annually from the global economy in lost productivity, misused resources, and premature deaths.
That assessment comes from The Tobacco Atlas, Third Edition, published by the American Cancer Society and the World Lung Foundation and released Tuesday at the LIVESTRONG Global Cancer Summit in Dublin, Ireland.
What's more, illnesses and deaths from tobacco use are totally preventable through such "well-established public policies" as tobacco taxes, advertising bans, smoke-free public places, and health warnings on packages, the report said.
That assessment comes from The Tobacco Atlas, Third Edition, published by the American Cancer Society and the World Lung Foundation and released Tuesday at the LIVESTRONG Global Cancer Summit in Dublin, Ireland.
What's more, illnesses and deaths from tobacco use are totally preventable through such "well-established public policies" as tobacco taxes, advertising bans, smoke-free public places, and health warnings on packages, the report said.
HPV Vaccine Could Prevent Many Penile Cancers
August 25, 2009
Nearly half of the tumors are caused by strains covered by the shot, study finds. The human papillomavirus (HPV) causes about half of penile cancer cases in the world, and giving vaccines to males could greatly reduce the incidence of the disease, a new study suggests.
Penile cancer remains rare, accounting for less than 1 percent of adult male cancers in North America and Europe, but that rate jumps to as high as 10 percent in Africa and Asia, according to Spanish researchers reporting online Aug. 25 in the Journal of Clinical Pathology.
Penile cancer remains rare, accounting for less than 1 percent of adult male cancers in North America and Europe, but that rate jumps to as high as 10 percent in Africa and Asia, according to Spanish researchers reporting online Aug. 25 in the Journal of Clinical Pathology.
Tamoxifen May Up Risk of Second, More Aggressive Breast Cancer
August 25, 2009
But survivors shouldn't stop taking the anti-cancer drug, experts say. The drug tamoxifen is a tried-and-true way to lower the chances of developing the most common type of recurrence among breast cancer survivors, but new research suggests it raises the risk of getting a more aggressive cancer in the healthy breast by more than four times.
However, the finding is no reason to ditch the anti-cancer drug, as even the lead researcher emphasized.
"All treatments have risks and benefits," said study author Dr.
However, the finding is no reason to ditch the anti-cancer drug, as even the lead researcher emphasized.
"All treatments have risks and benefits," said study author Dr.
Saliva May Help Spot Oral Cancer Early
August 25, 2009
Study suggests potential for a non-invasive diagnostic test. In a major step towards early diagnosis of oral cancer, researchers have found that saliva contains at least 50 microRNAs that could aid detection.
In the study, U.S.
In the study, U.S.
Protein May Identify Deadlier Breast Cancer
August 25, 2009
Findings might help doctors determine prognosis, researchers say. A protein linked to more aggressive and advanced breast cancer tumors has been identified by German researchers.
The investigators analyzed 229 breast tissue samples from patients with cancer and compared them with healthy breast tissue. The study found that patients whose tumors had elevated levels of GLI1 (glioma-associated oncogene homolog 1) protein tended to have a more advanced stage of cancer, had an increased number of cancerous lymph nodes and a greater chance of death.
The investigators analyzed 229 breast tissue samples from patients with cancer and compared them with healthy breast tissue. The study found that patients whose tumors had elevated levels of GLI1 (glioma-associated oncogene homolog 1) protein tended to have a more advanced stage of cancer, had an increased number of cancerous lymph nodes and a greater chance of death.
Smokers' Cars Loaded With Nicotine
August 25, 2009
Levels twice those found in restaurants and bars that permit smoking, study suggests. Passengers riding in the cars of smokers are exposed to nicotine levels nearly twice those found in restaurants and bars that permit smoking, a new study suggests.
The dangers of exposure to secondhand smoke are well known, including the risk for heart and respiratory disease, and have led to laws banning smoking in many public places. Many anti-smoking advocates believe the next frontier in the fight against secondhand smoke is in cars.
The dangers of exposure to secondhand smoke are well known, including the risk for heart and respiratory disease, and have led to laws banning smoking in many public places. Many anti-smoking advocates believe the next frontier in the fight against secondhand smoke is in cars.
Marital Separation May Hurt Cancer Survival
August 24, 2009
Married and never-married did the best a decade later, study shows. When it comes to surviving cancer, separation from your spouse appears to be worse for your health than divorce or even widowhood, a new study suggests.
In contrast, being married .
In contrast, being married .
Obesity Tied to Prostate Cancer Recurrence
August 21, 2009
Leads to poor prognosis in both blacks and whites after surgery, study finds. Obesity increases the risk of prostate cancer recurrence in both black and white men, says a U.S. study that challenges previous research suggesting obesity may be more significant for black men.
Better Pap Smear Follow-Up Needed Among Lower-Income Women
August 20, 2009
Disparities seen in screening rates, appropriate care in Canadian study. In the Canadian province of Ontario, fewer than half of women with abnormal Pap tests receive proper follow-up care and low-income women are less likely to be screened for cervical cancer than high-income women, a new study has found.
"Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable forms of cancer, yet in Ontario more than 1 million women have not been screened, and a disproportionate number of these women are living in lower-income communities," principal investigator Dr. Arlene Bierman, a physician at St.
"Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable forms of cancer, yet in Ontario more than 1 million women have not been screened, and a disproportionate number of these women are living in lower-income communities," principal investigator Dr. Arlene Bierman, a physician at St.
Scientists Spot How Sugar 'Feeds' Tumors
August 20, 2009
Finding could lead to new cancer treatments, researchers say. New information about how sugar "feeds" tumors has been uncovered by U.S. researchers, who said the finding may also have implications for other diseases such as diabetes.
Gene Mutation Improves Response to Lung Cancer Drug
August 19, 2009
Finding supports worthiness of genetic screening. People with lung cancer who are screened for a genetic mutation and then given a drug called Tarceva, which is believed to work well with that mutation, live longer than those without the mutation who take the drug, new research has found.
According to the Spanish authors of a study in the Aug. 20 issue of the New England Journal of Medicine, this type of widespread screening is actually doable and could lead to better decisions about treatment.
According to the Spanish authors of a study in the Aug. 20 issue of the New England Journal of Medicine, this type of widespread screening is actually doable and could lead to better decisions about treatment.
Are Candles Making You Sick?
August 19, 2009
Researchers warn of toxic buildup from paraffin, suggest beeswax instead. Paraffin wax candles, used mainly for romantic ambiance, fragrance and light, may also contribute to air pollution inside your home.
The candles, which are made from petroleum, are a source of known human carcinogens and indoor pollution, researchers said in a study to be presented Wednesday at the American Chemical Society's national meeting in Washington, D.C.
The candles, which are made from petroleum, are a source of known human carcinogens and indoor pollution, researchers said in a study to be presented Wednesday at the American Chemical Society's national meeting in Washington, D.C.
Cervical Cancer Vaccine Seems Safe
August 18, 2009
Fainting most common adverse event with Gardasil, study finds. The vaccine that protects against human papillomavirus (HPV), a cause of cervical cancer, appears safe, with relatively few serious side effects, according to a new U.S. government study.
Chemo Plus Palliative Care Reaps Benefits
August 18, 2009
For those with advanced cancer, teaching self-management and empowerment improves quality of life. Providing palliative care at the same time that advanced cancer patients are undergoing treatment improves their quality of life and mood, a new study shows.
It included 322 patients randomly selected to receive either usual cancer care or a palliative care program consisting of four weekly educational sessions followed by monthly sessions until they died or the study ended. The palliative program was designed to encourage patient self-management and empowerment.
It included 322 patients randomly selected to receive either usual cancer care or a palliative care program consisting of four weekly educational sessions followed by monthly sessions until they died or the study ended. The palliative program was designed to encourage patient self-management and empowerment.
New Target Eyed for Colon Cancer Drugs
August 18, 2009
In mouse study, researchers see possibility of 'potent therapy' Drugs that target a cell surface molecule called ERBB3 could offer a more effective way to treat colon cancer, a new study suggests.
Currently, drugs that target the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) are used to treat a number of cancers, but these drugs haven't proven very effective against colon cancer. ERBB3 is closely related to EGFR.
Currently, drugs that target the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) are used to treat a number of cancers, but these drugs haven't proven very effective against colon cancer. ERBB3 is closely related to EGFR.
Abnormal Protein May Signal Pancreatic Cancer
August 18, 2009
'Prion' could become diagnostic tool, researcher says Prion, an abnormal protein, is a biomarker of early pancreatic cancer, a new study suggests.
Prion accumulation causes mad cow disease, but very little is known about prions outside of the brain. This study identified the mechanism by which prions cause pancreatic tumors to grow more aggressively, said researchers at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine in Cleveland.
Prion accumulation causes mad cow disease, but very little is known about prions outside of the brain. This study identified the mechanism by which prions cause pancreatic tumors to grow more aggressively, said researchers at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine in Cleveland.
Antioxidants Pose No Melanoma Threat
August 17, 2009
Despite earlier study, new report finds no risk from common vitamin and mineral supplements. Vitamins C, E and other antioxidants do not increase the risk for melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer, a new study found.
A recent study had suggested that the risk for melanoma was increased four-fold among women who took supplemental vitamins C and E, beta carotene, selenium and zinc. Because 48 to 55 percent of U.
A recent study had suggested that the risk for melanoma was increased four-fold among women who took supplemental vitamins C and E, beta carotene, selenium and zinc. Because 48 to 55 percent of U.
Pain Level May Predict Survival in Certain Cancer Patients
August 17, 2009
Discomfort should be monitored in those with head and neck malignancies, researchers say. Higher levels of post-treatment pain in head and neck cancer patients appear to be associated with lower survival rates, U.S. researchers have found.
Chewing Tobacco No Safer Than Smoking
August 17, 2009
New study adds to list of carcinogens harming those with smokeless habit. Tobacco users who think it's safer to dip snuff or chew tobacco than smoke are dead wrong, researchers say.
A study has found that taking one pinch of smokeless tobacco delivers the same amount of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) as smoking five cigarettes.
PAHs are common environmental contaminants that are formed as a result of incomplete burning of wood, coal, fatty meat or organic matter, according to information in a news release from the American Chemical Society.
A study has found that taking one pinch of smokeless tobacco delivers the same amount of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) as smoking five cigarettes.
PAHs are common environmental contaminants that are formed as a result of incomplete burning of wood, coal, fatty meat or organic matter, according to information in a news release from the American Chemical Society.
Compound Targets, Destroys Cancer Stem Cells in Mice
August 13, 2009
Therapeutic possibilities are uncertain, researchers say. Researchers have identified a chemical able to seek out and destroy the stem cells that scientists believe give rise to cancer recurrence after treatment.
A growing body of research is showing that cancer stem cells play a role in cancer metastasis and in causing cancer to reappear even after treatment seems to have eradicated the initial tumor.
"Evidence is accumulating rapidly that cancer stem cells are responsible for the aggressive powers of many tumors," including breast, prostate, lung and others, said study author Robert Weinberg, a member of the Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research at Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
A growing body of research is showing that cancer stem cells play a role in cancer metastasis and in causing cancer to reappear even after treatment seems to have eradicated the initial tumor.
"Evidence is accumulating rapidly that cancer stem cells are responsible for the aggressive powers of many tumors," including breast, prostate, lung and others, said study author Robert Weinberg, a member of the Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research at Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
Cancer Deaths Declining, Especially Among Young
August 13, 2009
Advances in treatment, prevention and detection behind progress, study finds Cancer death rates are declining, especially among younger people, new research shows.
And while cancer is poised to become the number one killer in the United States, topping heart disease, that is because deaths from heart disease have decreased faster than for cancer.
"Older Americans have only experienced decreased [cancer] mortality very recently, but younger Americans have been seeing benefits for a long time so, as a result, everyone born in the last 60 years has been reaping the benefits of efforts in prevention research and treatment research and early detection research," said Dr.
And while cancer is poised to become the number one killer in the United States, topping heart disease, that is because deaths from heart disease have decreased faster than for cancer.
"Older Americans have only experienced decreased [cancer] mortality very recently, but younger Americans have been seeing benefits for a long time so, as a result, everyone born in the last 60 years has been reaping the benefits of efforts in prevention research and treatment research and early detection research," said Dr.
Stray Breast Cancer Cells Yield to Post-Op Chemo
August 12, 2009
Women with microscopic disease helped by additional treatment, research shows. Breast cancer patients with isolated tumor cells or tiny "micrometastases" in the lymph nodes benefit from adjuvant treatment, such as post-surgical chemotherapy or hormonal therapy, a new study finds.
Until now, many doctors doubted that the presence of micrometastases or isolated tumor cells affected long-term recovery, said Dr. Vivianne Tjan-Heijnen, head of the division of medical oncology at Maastricht University Medical Center in the Netherlands, the lead author of the study.
Until now, many doctors doubted that the presence of micrometastases or isolated tumor cells affected long-term recovery, said Dr. Vivianne Tjan-Heijnen, head of the division of medical oncology at Maastricht University Medical Center in the Netherlands, the lead author of the study.
New Antibiotics May Target Cancer-Causing Proteins
August 12, 2009
Anti-cancer use of thiazoles could be possible, research suggests. Scientists are closer to understanding how a recently approved class of antibiotics may work against cancer.
The drugs, called thiazole antibiotics, appear to block a cellular protein called FoxM1, one of the most over-produced proteins in cancer cells, according to researchers at the University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine. FoxM1 is believed to play an important role in causing cells to become cancerous and may present a promising target for future anti-cancer treatments.
The drugs, called thiazole antibiotics, appear to block a cellular protein called FoxM1, one of the most over-produced proteins in cancer cells, according to researchers at the University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine. FoxM1 is believed to play an important role in causing cells to become cancerous and may present a promising target for future anti-cancer treatments.
Aspirin May Stem Deaths From Colorectal Cancer
August 11, 2009
Study suggests a role for aspirin in prevention as well as treatment. Taking aspirin might not only reduce the risk of getting colorectal cancer, but it also might lower the odds of dying if you have it, new research suggests.
People with colorectal cancer who took aspirin regularly had a 29 percent lower risk for death from the cancer and a 21 percent lower risk for death from other causes, according to the research, reported in the Aug. 12 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association.
People with colorectal cancer who took aspirin regularly had a 29 percent lower risk for death from the cancer and a 21 percent lower risk for death from other causes, according to the research, reported in the Aug. 12 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association.
Limb-Sparing Surgery May Offer Little Benefit to Cancer Patients
August 11, 2009
It doesn't affect quality of life in most cases, review finds. Surgery that spares the limbs of some cancer patients may have little or no additional benefit over amputation in terms of health, cost or quality of life, researchers say.
Limb-sparing surgery can be just as effective as amputation in removing bone or soft-tissue sarcomas, but the analysis by Canadian researchers found few notable differences in psychological health and quality of life between people who had the two types of surgery. In fact, people who had their limbs saved tended to have more complications either shortly after the procedure or sometime later, the study found.
Limb-sparing surgery can be just as effective as amputation in removing bone or soft-tissue sarcomas, but the analysis by Canadian researchers found few notable differences in psychological health and quality of life between people who had the two types of surgery. In fact, people who had their limbs saved tended to have more complications either shortly after the procedure or sometime later, the study found.
Oral Drug Ups Survival in Advanced Prostate Cancer Cases
August 11, 2009
But no reduced death risk in patients with localized disease, research shows. Oral sodium clodronate improves overall survival in advanced prostate cancer patients but doesn't reduce the risk of death in those with localized disease, British researchers say.
They reported on the long-term survival outcomes of more than 800 men enrolled in two trials launched in 1994. The trials examined the effects of sodium clodronate in patients with advanced (311 men) or localized prostate cancer (508 men).
They reported on the long-term survival outcomes of more than 800 men enrolled in two trials launched in 1994. The trials examined the effects of sodium clodronate in patients with advanced (311 men) or localized prostate cancer (508 men).
More Evidence Healthy Living Brings Long Life
August 10, 2009
Good diet, no smoking, regular exercise lower chronic disease risk by 80%, CDC study finds. People who adopt four healthy behaviors .
9/11 Responders May Be At Raised Myeloma Risk
August 10, 2009
Cases are appearing at a younger age than is normal, researchers note. Preliminary findings suggest that responders to the attacks on the Twin Towers on 9/11 may be at higher risk for multiple myeloma, a cancer of the blood.
Notably, half of the cases identified among law enforcement officers were under the age of 45. Multiple myeloma is usually a disease of the elderly.
Notably, half of the cases identified among law enforcement officers were under the age of 45. Multiple myeloma is usually a disease of the elderly.
In U.S., No Comeback Seen for Hormone Therapy
August 09, 2009
Experts say risks of long-term use still outweigh possible benefits. Hormone replacement therapy once seemed like a wonderful means to help women age gracefully. By dosing menopausal women with estrogen and progesterone as their bodies began to produce decreased amounts of those hormones, doctors believed they could help fend off heart disease, osteoporosis and cancer.
But those beliefs collapsed in 2002, when researchers pulled the plug three years early on the Women's Health Initiative, a large-scale, federally funded study of hormone replacement therapy (HRT).
But those beliefs collapsed in 2002, when researchers pulled the plug three years early on the Women's Health Initiative, a large-scale, federally funded study of hormone replacement therapy (HRT).
Drinking Moderately or More Ups Men's Cancer Risk
August 07, 2009
Canadian study links regular alcohol consumption to six cancers. A man who drinks moderate or high amounts of alcohol over the course of his life appears to raise his risk for developing certain .
Many Opt for Surgery to Lower Breast, Ovarian Cancer Risk
August 07, 2009
Women with BRCA gene mutations often choose preventive measures, study finds. Many women with a high risk of breast or ovarian cancer have surgery to remove their breasts or ovaries in order to reduce the likelihood of developing cancer, English researchers report.
Their study included 211 women, aged 35 to 45, with BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations, which are known to increase the risk of breast and ovarian cancer. The women found out about their increased risk after undergoing genetic testing.
Their study included 211 women, aged 35 to 45, with BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations, which are known to increase the risk of breast and ovarian cancer. The women found out about their increased risk after undergoing genetic testing.
Many Texas Docs Not Pushing HPV Vaccine for Girls
August 06, 2009
Study finds fewer than half always recommend the shots, despite federal guidelines. More than half of Texas doctors don't always recommend human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination for girls, despite U.S. guidelines urging their inoculation, a new survey finds.
Living in U.S. May Raise Hispanics' Cancer Risk
August 06, 2009
Lifestyle changes up the odds for Cubans, Puerto Ricans, Mexicans, study finds. For Hispanics who move to the United States, the good life comes at a price: A new study finds they increase their risk for cancer by 40 percent.
Living the American lifestyle is probably to blame, say researchers from the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine.
Of three Hispanic subgroups they studied .
Living the American lifestyle is probably to blame, say researchers from the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine.
Of three Hispanic subgroups they studied .
Genome of Leukemia Patient Reveals Common Mutations
August 05, 2009
Findings could help scientists understand genetic basis of cancer. Decoding the genome of a man with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) revealed genetic mutations that may be common among other cancer patients.
Scientists at the Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis detected one mutation that's common in brain tumors called gliomas and another that was found in a second patient with AML.
Scientists at the Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis detected one mutation that's common in brain tumors called gliomas and another that was found in a second patient with AML.
Scientists Learn How Cancer Drugs Cause Hypertension
August 05, 2009
Finding points to ways to control blood pressure in the long-term, researchers say. A new study reveals why high blood pressure develops in up to one-third of cancer patients who take drugs to block the formation of blood vessels that feed tumors.
"Anti-angiogenesis drugs like Avastin, Sutent or Nexavar inhibit an important substance called vascular endothelial growth factor [VEGF] that stimulates the creation of new vessels that support malignant growth," senior study author Dr. Thomas Coffman, a professor of medicine, cell biology and immunology at Duke University Medical Center in Durham, N.
"Anti-angiogenesis drugs like Avastin, Sutent or Nexavar inhibit an important substance called vascular endothelial growth factor [VEGF] that stimulates the creation of new vessels that support malignant growth," senior study author Dr. Thomas Coffman, a professor of medicine, cell biology and immunology at Duke University Medical Center in Durham, N.
Certain Arthritis, Crohn's Drugs May Raise Kids' Cancer Risk
FDA
August 05, 2009
Agency strengthens 'black box' warning on medicines such as Enbrel, Remicade. Drugs widely used to fight rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease and other inflammatory disorders must now carry an updated "black box" warning label cautioning patients and doctors that the medicines may boost cancer risk in children and adolescents, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced Tuesday.
FDA Approves Avastin for Most Common Kidney Cancer
August 04, 2009
In combination with a second drug The drug Avastin has been approved in the United States for treating people with metastatic renal cell carcinoma, the most common form of kidney cancer.
The U.S.
The U.S.
Blood Type May Boost Pancreatic Cancer Risk
August 03, 2009
New findings are consistent with previous research. Common variants of a gene that determines blood type are associated with an increased risk of pancreatic cancer, according to U.S. researchers.
Immune Systems of AIDS Patients More Prone to HPV Cancers
July 31, 2009
Link was known, but new study helps explain why. As their immune system weakens, people with AIDS are at increased risk for human papillomavirus (HPV)-related cancers, a new study has found.
It was known that people with AIDS had a greater risk for HPV-associated cancers of the anus, cervix, penis, vagina, vulva and oropharynx. However, the extent to which AIDS-related weakening of the immune system played a role wasn't clear, the researchers pointed out.
It was known that people with AIDS had a greater risk for HPV-associated cancers of the anus, cervix, penis, vagina, vulva and oropharynx. However, the extent to which AIDS-related weakening of the immune system played a role wasn't clear, the researchers pointed out.
After Neuroblastoma, Chronic Problems Often Await
July 31, 2009
Survivors are found to have more health and social issues years later. Adult survivors of the childhood cancer neuroblastoma face long-term health and social problems, according to a new study.
Canadian researchers examined data on 954 people who had been diagnosed with neuroblastoma .
Canadian researchers examined data on 954 people who had been diagnosed with neuroblastoma .
Blood Transfusions Not Linked to Long-Term Problems
July 31, 2009
No evidence that cancer cells or other health conditions are spread, study finds. Receiving a blood transfusion for low-risk cardiac surgery doesn't appear to increase one's chances of having long-term health problems, an Australian study has found.
In the study of 1,062 people who required a transfusion before, during or after the minor heart surgery, more than 80 percent of the patients were still alive a decade after the procedure, according to the results published in the August issue of Anesthesiology.
Previous studies had hinted that immune system problems, cancer and other major health issues could arise from blood transfusions.
In the study of 1,062 people who required a transfusion before, during or after the minor heart surgery, more than 80 percent of the patients were still alive a decade after the procedure, according to the results published in the August issue of Anesthesiology.
Previous studies had hinted that immune system problems, cancer and other major health issues could arise from blood transfusions.
Euthanasia, Palliative Care Work in Unison in Belgium
July 30, 2009
While assisted dying is legal there, it's rarely implemented, expert says. Legalizing euthanasia for terminally ill people doesn't lead to reduced use of palliative care, Belgian researchers say.
The team from the End-of-Life Care Research Group in Brussels also found that dying patients who received spiritual care in their final three months of life were more likely to choose euthanasia or physician-assisted suicide than those who received little or no spiritual care. The findings suggest that, instead of opposing each other, euthanasia and palliative care complement one another and often work in unison, said study author Lieve Van den Block and colleagues.
The team from the End-of-Life Care Research Group in Brussels also found that dying patients who received spiritual care in their final three months of life were more likely to choose euthanasia or physician-assisted suicide than those who received little or no spiritual care. The findings suggest that, instead of opposing each other, euthanasia and palliative care complement one another and often work in unison, said study author Lieve Van den Block and colleagues.
Virus May Affect Survival in Head and Neck Cancer
July 30, 2009
Human papillomavirus infection linked to better prognosis, research suggests. Infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV) may improve survival in patients with head and neck cancer, U.S. researchers report.
Cancer Survivors Face Tough Road Long After Treatment Ends
July 30, 2009
Study shows they're at increased risk of psychological distress years later. Cancer survivors are more likely than their healthy peers to suffer serious psychological distress such as anxiety and depression, even a decade after treatment ends, new research shows.
Those who were relatively young at the time of diagnosis, unmarried, had less than a high school education, were uninsured, had other illnesses or had difficulty doing the activities of daily living were at the highest risk of psychological problems.
The study appears in the July 27 issue of the Archives of Internal Medicine.
Those who were relatively young at the time of diagnosis, unmarried, had less than a high school education, were uninsured, had other illnesses or had difficulty doing the activities of daily living were at the highest risk of psychological problems.
The study appears in the July 27 issue of the Archives of Internal Medicine.
Brain Scan May Help Predict Cancer Drug Response
July 30, 2009
Identifying tumors treatable with Avastin has multiple benefits, researchers say. A new way to predict which brain cancer patients will respond to the drug Avastin has been developed by U.S. researchers.
'Suicide' Genes Help Slow Ovarian Tumor Growth in Mice
July 30, 2009
Treatment could be tested in women within 18 to 24 months, expert suggests. Treatment with "suicide" genes slowed ovarian tumor growth in mice and may one day offer a way to treat late-stage ovarian cancer in women, U.S. scientists say.
Multiple Myeloma Genome Unlocked
July 29, 2009
Discovery paves way for better therapies for some blood cancer patients, experts say. The sequencing of the first three multiple myeloma whole genomes has been completed by U.S. scientists, who said this success will lead to a better understanding of this form of blood cancer and advance efforts to develop new therapies.
Scientists Test New Way to Get Drugs to Cancer Cells
July 29, 2009
Method might someday provide less toxic alternative to chemo, expert says. Nanoparticles that can carry cancer-killing radioisotopes directly to tumors show promise, U.S. researchers report.
Intense Daily Workout May Keep Cancer at Bay
July 29, 2009
Thirty minutes a day cut risk in half in study of Finnish men. Increased oxygen consumption associated with moderate- to high-intensity exercise appears to reduce the risk of cancer, a new study has found.
The Finnish study included 2,560 men, aged 42 to 61, whose leisure-time physical activity was assessed over one year. None of the men had a history of cancer, according to the report published online July 28 in the British Journal of Sports Medicine.
The Finnish study included 2,560 men, aged 42 to 61, whose leisure-time physical activity was assessed over one year. None of the men had a history of cancer, according to the report published online July 28 in the British Journal of Sports Medicine.
Teens May Not Benefit from Pap Tests
July 29, 2009
British study supports raising age for screening, which U.S. is pondering. A British study adds evidence to support a growing movement to raise the age at which American women should start Pap screening to detect cervical cancer.
In England, the recommended age at which a woman should first have a Pap test was recently raised to 25. In the United States, however, women are told to get regular Pap smears within three years of their first sexual intercourse or at age 21, whichever comes first.
In England, the recommended age at which a woman should first have a Pap test was recently raised to 25. In the United States, however, women are told to get regular Pap smears within three years of their first sexual intercourse or at age 21, whichever comes first.
Radiation Plus Chemo a Good Option in Lung Cancer
July 27, 2009
Surgery alone not linked to improved survival in non-small-cell lung cancer study. Radiotherapy plus chemotherapy, with or without surgery, works well for people with stage 3A non-small-cell lung cancer, a new study has found.
Stage 3A is declared when surgery cannot cure the disease because it has spread to the lymph nodes in the center of the chest.
Non-small-cell lung cancer accounts for about 80 percent of lung cancers, and smoking tobacco is the most common cause of lung cancer.
Stage 3A is declared when surgery cannot cure the disease because it has spread to the lymph nodes in the center of the chest.
Non-small-cell lung cancer accounts for about 80 percent of lung cancers, and smoking tobacco is the most common cause of lung cancer.
Culture May Help Raise Breast Cancer Death Rate for American Indians
July 24, 2009
Fatalism, stigma barriers to prevention and treatment for this hard-hit group, study finds. A new study finds that the high death rates from breast cancer in American Indian and Alaskan native women are linked to cultural beliefs, not barriers such as poor access to health care.
The findings are significant, because breast cancer ranks second on the list of cancer-related deaths in American Indian and Alaskan native women, and these women also have the lowest five-year survival rate when compared with other ethnic groups.
University of California-Davis and community researchers found cultural and tribal issues have an impact on the fight against cancer.
The findings are significant, because breast cancer ranks second on the list of cancer-related deaths in American Indian and Alaskan native women, and these women also have the lowest five-year survival rate when compared with other ethnic groups.
University of California-Davis and community researchers found cultural and tribal issues have an impact on the fight against cancer.
Ovary Removal May Play a Role in Lung Cancer
July 24, 2009
Increased risk could stem from sudden drop in estrogen, experts say. Medically induced menopause, particularly when it involves removal of both ovaries, nearly doubles a younger woman's risk for developing lung cancer, a new Canadian study has found.
"It's possible that vulnerability to lung cancer is caused by early and sudden decrease in estrogen levels or potentially long-term use of hormone replacement therapy, and further research is needed to explore these hypotheses," study co-author Jack Siemiatycki, a professor at the University of Montreal's Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, said in a university news release.
The finding, published online in the International Journal of Cancer, is based on a study of 999 patients from hospitals across Montreal, including 422 women with lung cancer.
"It's possible that vulnerability to lung cancer is caused by early and sudden decrease in estrogen levels or potentially long-term use of hormone replacement therapy, and further research is needed to explore these hypotheses," study co-author Jack Siemiatycki, a professor at the University of Montreal's Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, said in a university news release.
The finding, published online in the International Journal of Cancer, is based on a study of 999 patients from hospitals across Montreal, including 422 women with lung cancer.
Molecule Helps Leukemia Cells Hide From Immune System
July 23, 2009
Discovery might lead to new strategies to fight the disease, researchers say. Leukemia stem cells cleverly cloak themselves to avoid detection by a person's immune system, according to a pair of studies by researchers at Stanford University Medical School.
The cells co-opt a protective molecular badge that is used by normal blood stem cells, and this badge helps them travel throughout the body undetected, the investigators found.
Patients who had cancer stem cells with higher levels of this molecule have a poorer prognosis than those whose cells express lower levels, the researchers report in the July 24 issue of the journal Cell.
The cells co-opt a protective molecular badge that is used by normal blood stem cells, and this badge helps them travel throughout the body undetected, the investigators found.
Patients who had cancer stem cells with higher levels of this molecule have a poorer prognosis than those whose cells express lower levels, the researchers report in the July 24 issue of the journal Cell.
Elevated Insulin Levels Linked to Breast Cancer
July 23, 2009
Study finds strong association in postmenopausal women. Postmenopausal women with elevated insulin levels may be at higher risk of developing breast cancer, a new study says.
Researchers at Albert Einstein College of Medicine of Yeshiva University in New York City found a strong association between elevated insulin levels in the blood and increased risk of breast cancer. Their findings were published online in the International Journal of Cancer.
Researchers at Albert Einstein College of Medicine of Yeshiva University in New York City found a strong association between elevated insulin levels in the blood and increased risk of breast cancer. Their findings were published online in the International Journal of Cancer.
No Firm Evidence Green Tea Helps Prevent Cancer
July 21, 2009
Researchers have not uncovered conclusive findings, review shows. Does drinking green tea really help prevent cancer? The answer is still unclear, according to a review of 51 previous studies done over two decades.
The review, published online in The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, found that green tea may offer some help against liver cancer, breast cancer and, in men, prostate cancer, but consumption may actually increase one's chances of developing urinary bladder cancer. Conflicting evidence was found in the case of gastrointestinal (esophagus, colon or pancreas) cancers, though the authors noted "limited moderate to strong evidence" of green tea protecting against lung, pancreatic and colorectal cancer.
The review, published online in The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, found that green tea may offer some help against liver cancer, breast cancer and, in men, prostate cancer, but consumption may actually increase one's chances of developing urinary bladder cancer. Conflicting evidence was found in the case of gastrointestinal (esophagus, colon or pancreas) cancers, though the authors noted "limited moderate to strong evidence" of green tea protecting against lung, pancreatic and colorectal cancer.
New Gene May Signal Aggressive Breast Cancer
July 20, 2009
Finding provides insight into tumor growth, metastasis, researchers say Scientists have identified a new gene that may contribute to aggressive breast cancer, new research shows.
Using a new method of analyzing "microarray expression profiles" of breast cancer tumors, researchers from the Genome Institute of Singapore determined that the gene RCP might be implicated in the development of breast cancer.
They then studied noncancerous, human breast epithelial cells and found that when RCP protein was overproduced, the otherwise healthy cells began to look more like tumor cells, according to the study in the July 20 issue of the Journal of Clinical Investigation.
Using a new method of analyzing "microarray expression profiles" of breast cancer tumors, researchers from the Genome Institute of Singapore determined that the gene RCP might be implicated in the development of breast cancer.
They then studied noncancerous, human breast epithelial cells and found that when RCP protein was overproduced, the otherwise healthy cells began to look more like tumor cells, according to the study in the July 20 issue of the Journal of Clinical Investigation.
Study Questions Lymph Node Harvesting in Colorectal Cancer
July 20, 2009
Removing more during surgery may not be needed, researchers say. More isn't necessarily better when it comes to surgically removing lymph nodes to diagnose late-stage colorectal cancer, new research shows.
In 1990, the World Congress of Gastroenterology recommended that surgeons remove at least 12 lymph nodes during surgery for colorectal cancer, the study authors noted in the July 20 issue of Archives of Surgery. The standard was widely adopted as a measure of quality in surgical practices.
In 1990, the World Congress of Gastroenterology recommended that surgeons remove at least 12 lymph nodes during surgery for colorectal cancer, the study authors noted in the July 20 issue of Archives of Surgery. The standard was widely adopted as a measure of quality in surgical practices.
Small Molecule Might Play Big Part in Lung Cancer
July 18, 2009
High levels of miR-21 were found in nonsmoking patients; could be target for treatment. Researchers have isolated a small molecule that might play a big part in a form of lung cancer that typically strikes people who have never smoked, opening up the possibilities for new treatments for this deadly malignancy.
The microRNA miR-21 was found particularly elevated in adenocarcinomas that affect never-smokers, especially in individuals who tested positive for mutations in their epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) gene. Annually, more than 10 percent of lung cancers strike people who never touched a cigarette.
The microRNA miR-21 was found particularly elevated in adenocarcinomas that affect never-smokers, especially in individuals who tested positive for mutations in their epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) gene. Annually, more than 10 percent of lung cancers strike people who never touched a cigarette.
Spiritual Outlook Can Affect Mental Health in Breast Cancer
July 17, 2009
Negative feelings about faith linked to patients' poor emotional status, study suggests. Among breast cancer patients, a positive religious attitude is not linked to measures of well-being, but a negative religious or spiritual outlook can lead to worse emotional and mental health, a recent study suggests.
The study included 198 women with early-stage breast cancer and 86 women with late-stage breast cancer, who were recruited from hospitals in western Pennsylvania. The women were interviewed at the start of the study and again eight to 12 months later.
The study included 198 women with early-stage breast cancer and 86 women with late-stage breast cancer, who were recruited from hospitals in western Pennsylvania. The women were interviewed at the start of the study and again eight to 12 months later.
Hopes Dashed for Thalidomide as Lung Cancer Treatment
July 16, 2009
The drug's success with other cancers wasn't repeated with small cell tumors: study. Using the drug thalidomide in combination with chemotherapy won't improve survival for patients with small cell lung cancer but does increase their risk of blood clots, an English study finds.
For the study, 724 patients were randomly assigned to take a placebo or thalidomide, which suppresses angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels that tumors need to survive and grow. The patients took 100 to 200 milligrams a day of thalidomide or the placebo for up to two years.
For the study, 724 patients were randomly assigned to take a placebo or thalidomide, which suppresses angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels that tumors need to survive and grow. The patients took 100 to 200 milligrams a day of thalidomide or the placebo for up to two years.
Onsolis Approved for Severe Cancer Pain
July 16, 2009
Due to abuse risks, patch will be available under restricted distribution The potent opioid medication Onsolis (fentanyl buccal soluble film) has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat breakthrough cancer pain, the agency said Thursday.
Sunitinib Benefit Explored in Poor-Prognosis Kidney Cancer
July 16, 2009
Treatment safe in advanced disease but more study is needed, experts say. The oral cancer drug sunitinib (Sutent) has shown promising results in advanced kidney cancer patients who have a poor prognosis, new research says.
Previous clinical trials showed that sunitinib was effective in patients with advanced kidney cancer, and the drug has been approved worldwide as a first- and second-line treatment for these patients, according to background information with the study. However, little is known about the drug's activity in advanced kidney cancer patients with poor prognosis, such as those whose cancer has spread to the brain, those with poor performance status, and the elderly.
Previous clinical trials showed that sunitinib was effective in patients with advanced kidney cancer, and the drug has been approved worldwide as a first- and second-line treatment for these patients, according to background information with the study. However, little is known about the drug's activity in advanced kidney cancer patients with poor prognosis, such as those whose cancer has spread to the brain, those with poor performance status, and the elderly.
Teaming Up to Tackle a Deadly Cancer
July 16, 2009
Family bonds, dedicated scientists set their sights on the bone malignancy chordoma. As a child, Daniel Alter had blazing headaches that doctors explained away as lazy eye or asthma.
He pushed himself through Boy Scout hikes until one day he fell three times in one hour. On the baseball field, he would see a fly ball coming right for his mitt and it would fall to the ground, 10 feet away.
He pushed himself through Boy Scout hikes until one day he fell three times in one hour. On the baseball field, he would see a fly ball coming right for his mitt and it would fall to the ground, 10 feet away.
Health Tip
Talking to Loved Ones With Cancer
July 16, 2009
Be supportive and honest When a dear friend or family member has been diagnosed with cancer, you'll want to offer your love, support and sympathy.
Though it may be very difficult, the American Cancer Society says you should be supportive, honest and a good listener.
The Society offers these suggestions:
Be honest.
Though it may be very difficult, the American Cancer Society says you should be supportive, honest and a good listener.
The Society offers these suggestions:
Be honest.
Rare Cells Linked to Pediatric Cancers
July 15, 2009
Discovery could pave the way for future targeted treatment. Certain types of circulating blood cells appear to be important predictors of the spread of cancer in children, say French researchers.
They measured levels of circulating endothelial cells and endothelial progenitor cells in 23 children with localized cancer, 22 children with metastatic cancer and 20 healthy children. Circulating endothelial cells are rare cells shed from the lining of blood vessels after vascular damage.
They measured levels of circulating endothelial cells and endothelial progenitor cells in 23 children with localized cancer, 22 children with metastatic cancer and 20 healthy children. Circulating endothelial cells are rare cells shed from the lining of blood vessels after vascular damage.
Gene Connections Key to Brain Tumor Growth
July 14, 2009
Discovery could help change disease from fatal to chronic, researcher says. Researchers have identified a network of mutated genes and gene processes that, together, contribute to the development of glioblastomas, the deadliest type of brain tumor.
"There is not a single gene that accounts for the development of brain tumors," explained Dr. Markus Bredel, co-author of two related papers in the July 15 issue of the Journal of the American Medication Association.
"There is not a single gene that accounts for the development of brain tumors," explained Dr. Markus Bredel, co-author of two related papers in the July 15 issue of the Journal of the American Medication Association.
Reminders Boost Mammography Appointments
July 14, 2009
Prompts for breast exams improve compliance, study finds. Breast cancer screenings increased more than 17 percent through the use of a reminder program for women who were due for a mammogram, a new U.S. study shows.
Increase in Thyroid Cancer Puzzles Experts
July 14, 2009
Uptick since 1980 cannot be explained solely by better screening: study. Intensified screening doesn't entirely explain the jump in thyroid cancers noted in the United States since 1980, and scientists now believe that other as-yet-unknown factors are to blame.
A new study finds that thyroid tumors of all sizes are being picked up, not just the smaller ones that more aggressive screening would be expected to detect.
"You cannot simply explain this by increased screening, there's a real increased incidence," said Dr.
A new study finds that thyroid tumors of all sizes are being picked up, not just the smaller ones that more aggressive screening would be expected to detect.
"You cannot simply explain this by increased screening, there's a real increased incidence," said Dr.
Combination Therapy Best for Aggressive Prostate Cancer
July 14, 2009
Adding radiation and hormone treatment to brachytherapy improves survival, study shows. Men with aggressive prostate cancer who have brachytherapy alone are more likely to die than those who receive a combination of treatments, new findings show.
In brachytherapy, radioactive "seeds" are implanted in the tumor.
"Despite the increasing numbers of men worldwide who choose to undergo brachytherapy alone for their high-risk prostate cancer, the evidence supporting this treatment method alone based on survival data from randomized trials is lacking," lead researcher Dr.
In brachytherapy, radioactive "seeds" are implanted in the tumor.
"Despite the increasing numbers of men worldwide who choose to undergo brachytherapy alone for their high-risk prostate cancer, the evidence supporting this treatment method alone based on survival data from randomized trials is lacking," lead researcher Dr.
Coronary Calcium Scans Can Raise Cancer Risks
July 13, 2009
But study finds wide range of doses, lack of protocols for this screening test. When weighing whether a coronary calcium scan is worth the risk, a new study suggests that arriving at an answer won't be clear-cut or easy.
A team of researchers from the U.S.
A team of researchers from the U.S.
Heavy Drinking Linked to Aggressive Prostate Cancer
July 13, 2009
Consumption also appears to undercut effect of cancer-prevention drug. Heavy drinking, especially when it's beer, increases the risk for highly aggressive prostate cancer, a new study finds.
The researchers did not set out to determine the effect of alcohol consumption on prostate cancer risk but rather to test the effectiveness of finasteride (Proscar, Propecia), a drug prescribed to prevent prostate cancer.
And they found that heavy drinking reduces the cancer-preventing effect of finasteride.
The researchers did not set out to determine the effect of alcohol consumption on prostate cancer risk but rather to test the effectiveness of finasteride (Proscar, Propecia), a drug prescribed to prevent prostate cancer.
And they found that heavy drinking reduces the cancer-preventing effect of finasteride.
Overall Health of U.S. Children a Mixed Bag
July 10, 2009
Government study finds gains and losses More of America's children get recommended vaccinations and have health insurance than in years past, but a new U.S. government report paints a mixed picture of the overall health of the nation's youngsters.
More Mammograms May Mean More 'Harmless' Cancers
July 10, 2009
Experts stress, though, that screenings remain vital. One of every three breast cancers detected by a screening mammogram is unlikely to ever cause a problem, a new study predicts.
The report of a so-called overdiagnosis rate of 35 percent came from an examination of breast cancer screening programs in five countries conducted by Danish researchers and published online Thursday in BMJ.
The finding echoes those of a study published late last year that concluded that some breast cancers may naturally disappear without treatment.
The report of a so-called overdiagnosis rate of 35 percent came from an examination of breast cancer screening programs in five countries conducted by Danish researchers and published online Thursday in BMJ.
The finding echoes those of a study published late last year that concluded that some breast cancers may naturally disappear without treatment.
Study Pinpoints Risk Factors for Death in Young Stroke Victims
July 09, 2009
Many can be modified, treated to improve odds, experts say. Younger adults who suffer a stroke are more likely to die if they are heavy drinkers, have heart failure, cancer, type 1 diabetes or an infection before their stroke, Finnish researchers report.
Although the overall death rate in stroke patients aged 15 to 49 is low, four factors double the risk of death: heavy drinking; being 45 to 49; type 1 diabetes; or a having an infection beforehand. Moreover, having heart failure increased the risk of dying sevenfold and cancer increased the risk 16 times, the researchers found.
Although the overall death rate in stroke patients aged 15 to 49 is low, four factors double the risk of death: heavy drinking; being 45 to 49; type 1 diabetes; or a having an infection beforehand. Moreover, having heart failure increased the risk of dying sevenfold and cancer increased the risk 16 times, the researchers found.
Prostate Drug Appears Safer Than Thought
July 08, 2009
Finasteride does not cause more aggressive cancer, study contends. Doctors don't have to be so cautious in prescribing the drug finasteride to men at risk for prostate cancer, a new study suggests.
Physicians face a dilemma when trying to decide whether to use the drug, which has been shown to prevent prostate cancer in about one in five men who take it. However, findings from the Prostate Cancer Prevention Trial published in 2003 concluded that men who developed prostate cancer while taking finasteride were 25 percent more likely to develop an aggressive form of the disease.
Physicians face a dilemma when trying to decide whether to use the drug, which has been shown to prevent prostate cancer in about one in five men who take it. However, findings from the Prostate Cancer Prevention Trial published in 2003 concluded that men who developed prostate cancer while taking finasteride were 25 percent more likely to develop an aggressive form of the disease.
'Easter Island' Drug Adds Years to Mice
July 08, 2009
Prospects for extending human life remain unclear, researchers say. Though researchers aren't ready to recommend that people start popping pills to live longer, they hope a drug used to prevent rejection of transplanted organs may turn out to extend lives, too.
Middle-age mice that were given the drug rapamycin (Sirolimus) lived as much as 38 percent longer than mice that didn't get the drug.
The findings, disclosed in a study released online Wednesday in the journal Nature, provides "a foundation for future research on retarding aging," said the study's lead author, David Harrison, a professor at the Jackson Laboratory in Bar Harbor, Maine.
Middle-age mice that were given the drug rapamycin (Sirolimus) lived as much as 38 percent longer than mice that didn't get the drug.
The findings, disclosed in a study released online Wednesday in the journal Nature, provides "a foundation for future research on retarding aging," said the study's lead author, David Harrison, a professor at the Jackson Laboratory in Bar Harbor, Maine.
New Evidence Supports HPV Vaccine
July 07, 2009
Industry-funded study showed high levels of protection against human papillomavirus. The human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine is highly effective at preventing precancerous cervical lesions that can lead to cervical cancer, a new study shows.
The researchers also found that the HPV-16/18 AS04-adjuvanted vaccine also appears to protect against other cancer-causing HPV types closely related to HPV-16/18, most notably HPV-31 and HPV-45.
The study of women aged 15 to 25, who received three vaccine doses over six months, found that it was as much as 98 percent effective against HPV-16/18, and between 37 percent and 54 percent effective against 12 other cancer-causing HPV types.
The researchers also found that the HPV-16/18 AS04-adjuvanted vaccine also appears to protect against other cancer-causing HPV types closely related to HPV-16/18, most notably HPV-31 and HPV-45.
The study of women aged 15 to 25, who received three vaccine doses over six months, found that it was as much as 98 percent effective against HPV-16/18, and between 37 percent and 54 percent effective against 12 other cancer-causing HPV types.
Cell Pathway May Be Key to Lung Cancer's Spread
July 03, 2009
Researchers express hope that finding will lead to treatments. U.S. researchers say they've found a major cellular flaw that may drive the rapid spread of relapsed lung cancer.
Cancer Endangers Some Wildlife Species
July 02, 2009
Effective conservation can help reduce threat, expert says. Cancer is a major threat to certain species of wildlife, which need to be protected through health monitoring, researchers say.
"Cancer is one of the leading health concerns for humans, accounting for more than 10 percent of human deaths. But we now understand that cancer can kill wild animals at similar rates," lead author Denise McAloose, chief pathologist for the Wildlife Conservation Society's Global Health Program, said in a news release from the society.
"Cancer is one of the leading health concerns for humans, accounting for more than 10 percent of human deaths. But we now understand that cancer can kill wild animals at similar rates," lead author Denise McAloose, chief pathologist for the Wildlife Conservation Society's Global Health Program, said in a news release from the society.
Another Genetic Link to Testicular Cancer Is Found
July 02, 2009
Discovery may help explain why disease runs in families. A second gene linked to inherited testicular germ-cell cancer has been identified by scientists at the U.S. National Institutes of Health.
FDA Tells Patients to Stick With Diabetes Drug Linked to Cancer
July 01, 2009
There's no conclusive evidence that Lantus causes malignancy, agency says. Despite recent studies suggesting that the injected diabetes drug Lantus (insulin glargine) might boost cancer risk, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration on Wednesday urged patients who are on the medication to continue using it.
Obesity Rates Continue to Climb in U.S.
July 01, 2009
Eight of 10 states with highest number of obese adults are in the South, report says. The rates of adult obesity in the United States increased in 23 states during the past year and did not decrease in any state.
And the number of obese and overweight children has now climbed to 30 percent in 30 states, a troubling trend that could signal decades of weight-related health problems such as cancer, diabetes and heart disease as these children become adults.
Those are just some of the worrisome findings in an annual report on obesity in America, released Wednesday by the Trust for America's Health and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.
And the number of obese and overweight children has now climbed to 30 percent in 30 states, a troubling trend that could signal decades of weight-related health problems such as cancer, diabetes and heart disease as these children become adults.
Those are just some of the worrisome findings in an annual report on obesity in America, released Wednesday by the Trust for America's Health and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.
Metabolic Syndrome May Make Breast Cancer More Likely
June 30, 2009
Study finds increased risk for postmenopausal women. Women with high blood pressure, elevated glucose and other components of metabolic syndrome might be at increased risk for postmenopausal breast cancer, a new study suggests.
Metabolic syndrome, also known as insulin resistance syndrome, consists of a cluster of such conditions as abdominal obesity, high blood glucose levels, impaired glucose tolerance, abnormal lipid levels and hypertension.
The study included 4,888 women, ages 50 to 79, who did not have diabetes at the start of the study and were periodically tested for components of metabolic syndrome over eight years as part of their participation in the Women's Health Initiative study.
Metabolic syndrome, also known as insulin resistance syndrome, consists of a cluster of such conditions as abdominal obesity, high blood glucose levels, impaired glucose tolerance, abnormal lipid levels and hypertension.
The study included 4,888 women, ages 50 to 79, who did not have diabetes at the start of the study and were periodically tested for components of metabolic syndrome over eight years as part of their participation in the Women's Health Initiative study.
'Chemical Nose' May Sniff Out Cancer Earlier
June 26, 2009
In lab studies, sensors differentiate between healthy and abnormal cells. Doctors may some day be able to sniff out cancer with a "chemical nose," a new report suggests.
Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology and the University of Massachusetts at Amherst say they have developed highly sensitive sensors that pick up subtle differences on the surface of a cell that indicate if it is healthy or cancerous, even whether the cancer is metastatic or not.
The team's report, published online in this week's issue of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, said the sensors have successfully distinguished between healthy and cancerous human and animal cells, even from the same individual.
Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology and the University of Massachusetts at Amherst say they have developed highly sensitive sensors that pick up subtle differences on the surface of a cell that indicate if it is healthy or cancerous, even whether the cancer is metastatic or not.
The team's report, published online in this week's issue of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, said the sensors have successfully distinguished between healthy and cancerous human and animal cells, even from the same individual.
Eating Animal Fat May Lead to Pancreatic Cancer
June 26, 2009
Added risk is tied to red meat and dairy products, study finds. Fat from red meat and dairy products can increase your risk for pancreatic cancer, researchers from the U.S. National Cancer Institute report.
Cell Protein Could Help Spur Malignancy
June 25, 2009
Discovery may lead to new cancer treatments, scientists say. A protein called STAT3 plays a major role in the change of normal cells into cancerous cells, according to U.S. researchers, who say the finding could lead to new cancer treatments.
Abused Kids Face Higher Cancer Risk
June 25, 2009
'Fight or flight' hormone may play a role, researcher suggests. Adults who experienced physical abuse as children are more likely to develop cancer than those who weren't abused, according to a Canadian study.
The University of Toronto researchers concluded that childhood physical abuse is associated with a 49 percent increased risk of cancer in adulthood. Even after taking into account potentially major health factors .
The University of Toronto researchers concluded that childhood physical abuse is associated with a 49 percent increased risk of cancer in adulthood. Even after taking into account potentially major health factors .
For Kids With Leukemia, Radiation May Be Safe to Skip
June 24, 2009
Today's chemotherapy regimen often eradicates disease, study finds. Radiation to the brain isn't necessary for most children with newly diagnosed acute lymphoblastic leukemia, new research has found.
In fact, doctors from St. Jude Children's Research Hospital found that children who had chemotherapy alone had a longer remission period and experienced fewer adverse events than those who, in the past, had also been given radiation treatments.
In fact, doctors from St. Jude Children's Research Hospital found that children who had chemotherapy alone had a longer remission period and experienced fewer adverse events than those who, in the past, had also been given radiation treatments.
Bariatric Surgery Cuts Cancer Risk for Women
June 24, 2009
Finding adds to the link between obesity and cancer, experts say. Obese women who have weight-loss surgery may reduce their risk of developing cancer, but there appears to be no such benefit for men, Swedish researchers report.
Obesity is associated with an increased risk of developing many different cancers. In the United States, obesity is linked with 14 percent of cancer deaths in men and 20 percent of such deaths in women, according to background information in the study.
Obesity is associated with an increased risk of developing many different cancers. In the United States, obesity is linked with 14 percent of cancer deaths in men and 20 percent of such deaths in women, according to background information in the study.
Determining Who Will Respond to Brain Tumor Therapy
June 23, 2009
Blood biomarker, combined with MRI scan, helps predict outcome, study finds. A new biomarker that may help predict whether someone with a brain tumor will respond to a given treatment has been identified by U.S. researchers.
Schizophrenia Linked to Higher Risk of Dying From Cancer
June 23, 2009
Study finds lung and breast cancer rates especially elevated. Cancer is the second leading cause of death for people with schizophrenia, a new French study reports.
Researchers from the University of Reims in France found that people with schizophrenia die from cancer at four times the rate of the general population, making it the leading cause of death in that group after suicide. The study, published online June 22 in Cancer, recommended that doctors pay closer attention to cancer prevention and early detection in people with that crippling psychiatric disorder.
Researchers from the University of Reims in France found that people with schizophrenia die from cancer at four times the rate of the general population, making it the leading cause of death in that group after suicide. The study, published online June 22 in Cancer, recommended that doctors pay closer attention to cancer prevention and early detection in people with that crippling psychiatric disorder.
Whites More Likely to Get Rare Bone Cancer
June 23, 2009
Reasons for racial disparity remain unclear, researcher says. Scientists have documented that the rare bone and soft tissue cancer Ewing's sarcoma disproportionately strikes white people.
What's more, among whites who have the disease, males are more likely to die from it than females, according to a study published online June 22 in Cancer.
Led by Dr.
What's more, among whites who have the disease, males are more likely to die from it than females, according to a study published online June 22 in Cancer.
Led by Dr.
Lab Study Finds Protein That May Inhibit Cancer Spread
June 22, 2009
Tests in mice show prosaposin injections reduce tumor growth. A protein produced by certain kinds of tumors inhibits the spread of cancer and could potentially be harnessed as a cancer treatment, researchers say.
Currently, there is no approved therapy for inhibiting or treating metastasis .
Currently, there is no approved therapy for inhibiting or treating metastasis .
Promising Therapy for Prostate Cancer
June 22, 2009
Experimental drug beat back inoperable cancer in two patients, study claims. An experimental drug therapy appears to have helped destroy allegedly inoperable prostate cancer in two patients in a clinical trial.
Use of the immunotherapeutic agent MDX-010, or ipilimumab, in combination with standard hormone and radiation treatments helped eliminate the aggressive tumors, which had already spread into the patients' abdominal areas, according to a report from Mayo Clinic researchers that appears in Discovery's Edge, the Mayo Clinic's online research magazine. Both patients are now considered cancer-free.
Use of the immunotherapeutic agent MDX-010, or ipilimumab, in combination with standard hormone and radiation treatments helped eliminate the aggressive tumors, which had already spread into the patients' abdominal areas, according to a report from Mayo Clinic researchers that appears in Discovery's Edge, the Mayo Clinic's online research magazine. Both patients are now considered cancer-free.
Obesity Greatly Raises Endometrial Cancer Risk
June 22, 2009
Odds are 22 times higher for very overweight women, study finds. Obesity is already linked to heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure, but new research finds those extra pounds can also significantly increase a woman's risk of developing endometrial cancer, especially if she experiences early menopause.
Published in the July issue of Obstetrics & Gynecology, the study found that women with a body-mass index (BMI) greater than 35 who were under 45 at the time of their last menstrual period had a 22 times higher risk of developing endometrial cancers than their normal-weight peers.
"In this young population, the risk of endometrial cancer increased dramatically if they had a BMI greater than 25," said study author Cheryll C.
Published in the July issue of Obstetrics & Gynecology, the study found that women with a body-mass index (BMI) greater than 35 who were under 45 at the time of their last menstrual period had a 22 times higher risk of developing endometrial cancers than their normal-weight peers.
"In this young population, the risk of endometrial cancer increased dramatically if they had a BMI greater than 25," said study author Cheryll C.
Chemicals in Marijuana Smoke May Harm DNA
June 19, 2009
Lab tests find cannabis even more toxic than tobacco. The smoke from cannabis, the plant from which marijuana is derived, contains compounds that can damage DNA and increase the risk of cancer just like tobacco smoke, says a new study from the United Kingdom.
In laboratory tests, Rajinder Singh from the University of Leicester and colleagues found certain carcinogens in cannabis smoke in amounts 50 percent greater than those found in tobacco smoke. They noted that light cannabis use could possibly prove to be even more damaging because cannabis smokers usually inhale more deeply than cigarette smokers.
In laboratory tests, Rajinder Singh from the University of Leicester and colleagues found certain carcinogens in cannabis smoke in amounts 50 percent greater than those found in tobacco smoke. They noted that light cannabis use could possibly prove to be even more damaging because cannabis smokers usually inhale more deeply than cigarette smokers.
Green Tea Component May Slow Prostate Cancer
June 19, 2009
Men in small study took capsules equivalent to brewed beverage. The active compounds in green tea might slow the progression of prostate cancer, the results of a small study suggest.
The study included 26 men, 41 to 72 years old, who had prostate cancer and were scheduled for radical prostatectomy. The men took four capsules a day of an investigational agent called Polyphenon E, an amount equivalent to about 12 cups of normally brewed, concentrated green tea.
The study included 26 men, 41 to 72 years old, who had prostate cancer and were scheduled for radical prostatectomy. The men took four capsules a day of an investigational agent called Polyphenon E, an amount equivalent to about 12 cups of normally brewed, concentrated green tea.
New Prostate Cancer Biomarker Discovered
June 18, 2009
Finding also might apply in other types of cancer, researcher says. A new marker for advanced prostate cancer and metastasis, or spread, of the disease has been identified by U.S. researchers.
Study Finds Possible Genetic Indicator of Colorectal Cancer
June 18, 2009
If perfected, screening method could make disease detection easier, experts say. Scientists say they may be moving closer to developing a genetic test for colorectal cancer that could indicate who needs a more advanced colonoscopy screening.
In a study released this week, an international team of researchers report that they've found a genetic red flag that indicates the presence of cancer more than half the time.
The research is in its preliminary stages.
In a study released this week, an international team of researchers report that they've found a genetic red flag that indicates the presence of cancer more than half the time.
The research is in its preliminary stages.
Pesticides Linked to Blood Disorder
June 18, 2009
Precancerous condition more prevalent among those who apply the chemicals, study shows. People who apply pesticides have double the normal risk of developing a precancerous blood disorder, say U.S. researchers.
Radiation May Raise Stroke Risk After Hodgkin's
June 17, 2009
Expert urges use of alternative to 'toxic' treatment. Hodgkin's lymphoma survivors who are treated with radiation therapy have a greatly increased risk of stroke and transient ischemic attack, also called a "mini-stroke," new research has found.
Flora E. van Leeuwen and colleagues at the Netherlands Cancer Institute in Amsterdam studied 2,201 people with Hodgkin's lymphoma who had been treated before age 51 and had survived at least five years after their diagnosis.
Flora E. van Leeuwen and colleagues at the Netherlands Cancer Institute in Amsterdam studied 2,201 people with Hodgkin's lymphoma who had been treated before age 51 and had survived at least five years after their diagnosis.
Taking Aim at Relapse of Leukemia in Kids
June 17, 2009
Researchers say discovery could lead to lifesaving drugs Scientists have identified molecules that enable tumor cells to invade the nervous system of patients with a blood-borne childhood cancer, a finding that may lead to the development of drugs that block these molecules and prevent relapse.
In T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL), which primarily strikes children and adolescents, the bone marrow makes too many white blood cells.
"In general, [T-ALL] is treatable with basic chemotherapy and radiation, so close to 80 percent of kids can be cured," study leader Ioannis Aifantis, an associate professor of pathology and co-director of the Cancer Stem Cell Program at the New York University Cancer Institute, said in a university news release.
In T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL), which primarily strikes children and adolescents, the bone marrow makes too many white blood cells.
"In general, [T-ALL] is treatable with basic chemotherapy and radiation, so close to 80 percent of kids can be cured," study leader Ioannis Aifantis, an associate professor of pathology and co-director of the Cancer Stem Cell Program at the New York University Cancer Institute, said in a university news release.
Genes May Raise Risk of Neuroblastoma in Kids
June 17, 2009
Finding sheds light on cause of lethal cancer, expert says. Researchers have identified a genetic trait that appears to boost the risk that a child will develop an often-fatal cancer that targets the nervous system.
The findings don't point toward a treatment, but they do give scientists more insight into neuroblastoma, said study co-author Dr. John Maris.
The findings don't point toward a treatment, but they do give scientists more insight into neuroblastoma, said study co-author Dr. John Maris.
Racial Clusters Seem to Affect Access to Colon Care
June 16, 2009
U.S. areas with more black residents lack specialists, study shows. Black Americans appear to have less access to colorectal cancer specialists, which means they may be less likely to receive timely and appropriate treatments, researchers say.
In a study that analyzed population and health data from all 3,219 counties in the United States, the research team found that the higher the population of blacks in a county, the lower the number of specialists who diagnose and treat colorectal cancer. In contrast, counties with a greater population of Asian Americans were found to have more colorectal cancer specialists.
In a study that analyzed population and health data from all 3,219 counties in the United States, the research team found that the higher the population of blacks in a county, the lower the number of specialists who diagnose and treat colorectal cancer. In contrast, counties with a greater population of Asian Americans were found to have more colorectal cancer specialists.
Chemo Drug May Help Sun-Damaged Skin
June 15, 2009
Small study finds it also may reduce precancerous lesions. Applying the chemotherapy drug fluorouracil to skin might help improve the appearance of sun-damaged areas and reduce potentially precancerous patches, according to a small, new study.
Fluorouracil is used to treat cancers of the colon, head and neck, pancreas and other organs. Changes in skin appearance have been noted in people undergoing treatment with systemic fluorouracil, and this led to the development of a skin cream that contains the cancer drug.
Fluorouracil is used to treat cancers of the colon, head and neck, pancreas and other organs. Changes in skin appearance have been noted in people undergoing treatment with systemic fluorouracil, and this led to the development of a skin cream that contains the cancer drug.
Nicotine Receptors Could Be Lung Cancer Treatment Target
June 15, 2009
Compound inhibited receptors and led to cancer cell death in mouse study. In a study of mice with lung cancer, a treatment that targeted nicotine receptors more than doubled the animals' survival time, Italian researchers say.
Nicotine plays a dual role in lung cancer. Changes in genes encoding nicotine receptors not only drive the urge the smoke, but also increase susceptibility to lung cancer.
Nicotine plays a dual role in lung cancer. Changes in genes encoding nicotine receptors not only drive the urge the smoke, but also increase susceptibility to lung cancer.
Evolution May Have Made Humans More Cancer Prone
June 12, 2009
Scientist thinks bigger brain could explain difference from chimps. Did humans lose some of their ability to ward off cancer in return for developing a more advanced brain?
That's a possibility, says a Georgia Institute of Technology researcher who found that the genes of chimpanzees are better than those of humans at apoptosis, or programmed cell death .
That's a possibility, says a Georgia Institute of Technology researcher who found that the genes of chimpanzees are better than those of humans at apoptosis, or programmed cell death .
Health Secrets of Red Wine Uncovered
June 11, 2009
But for maximum benefits, sip don't gulp, research shows. Scientists already knew that drinking red wine in moderation is good for your health; now they are figuring out why.
New research is uncovering the disease-prevention secrets of a polyphenol called resveratrol, one of compounds in red wine that seems to improve health. Although the benefits have been touted for years, researchers weren't sure how polyphenols, and resveratrol in particular, worked in the body.
New research is uncovering the disease-prevention secrets of a polyphenol called resveratrol, one of compounds in red wine that seems to improve health. Although the benefits have been touted for years, researchers weren't sure how polyphenols, and resveratrol in particular, worked in the body.
Longer Hormone Treatment May Improve Prostate Cancer Outlook
June 10, 2009
European and U.S. studies find similar results. Men with moderately advanced prostate cancer who get hormone-blocking drugs after radiation therapy do better when the drug treatment is continued for two or more years after an initial six-month regimen, a European study has found.
The results pretty much mirror those of a similar American trial reported in May, said Dr. Eric M.
The results pretty much mirror those of a similar American trial reported in May, said Dr. Eric M.
Gene Can Dampen Chemo Drug Effectiveness
June 10, 2009
Alternatives to current breast cancer therapy needed for some patients, study says. Women with a certain type of gene may show marked resistance to an important chemotherapy drug used to treat breast cancer, new research suggests.
Scientists at the U.S.
Scientists at the U.S.
Cancer Diagnosis May Tax Physical, Mental Health
June 09, 2009
Treatment, too, affects quality of life, studies show. A cancer diagnosis can take a physical and mental toll in the years after treatment, a new study says.
Bryce B. Reeve of the U.
Bryce B. Reeve of the U.
Health Care 'Gap' Continues for Minority, Poor Americans
June 09, 2009
Government report finds they have higher incidence of illness, fewer options for care. Minority and low-income Americans are much more likely to suffer from a chronic, debilitating illness than whites and are far less likely to have the kind of coverage that would ensure quality care, according to a new report issued Tuesday by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
Colorectal Cancer Rates Rising for Under 50 Set
June 08, 2009
Upturn is especially strong among those in their 20s, study finds. Despite a steady decline in colorectal cancer rates in the United States in the past two decades, new research indicates that the disease is actually on the upswing among people younger than 50.
The analysis suggests that the well-established drop in new diagnoses .
The analysis suggests that the well-established drop in new diagnoses .
Still Too Few Women in Cancer Trials
June 08, 2009
Many may lack the time, resources to participate, study finds. Women are underrepresented in clinical cancer research published in the world's most influential medical journals, a new study says.
The findings raise concerns that scientists aren't learning all they can about gender differences in response to chemotherapy and other cancer treatments.
Researchers analyzed 661 prospective studies about types of cancer that afflict both genders at relatively equal rates, including colon cancer, oral cancers, lung cancer, brain tumors and lymphomas.
The findings raise concerns that scientists aren't learning all they can about gender differences in response to chemotherapy and other cancer treatments.
Researchers analyzed 661 prospective studies about types of cancer that afflict both genders at relatively equal rates, including colon cancer, oral cancers, lung cancer, brain tumors and lymphomas.
Analysis Sheds Light on Protein's Role in Cancer
June 05, 2009
Scientists make strides in finding ways to slow tumor growth. A protein called PHD2 that regulates blood vessel growth is often found at lower-than-normal levels in tumors, say researchers who analyzed levels of the protein in tumor samples and healthy tissue.
When they blocked the expression of PHD2, researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine in California found that human cancer cells grew more quickly when implanted into mice and there was an increase in the number of blood vessels feeding the tumors. To grow and spread, tumors require a good supply of blood, the study authors noted in a Stanford news release.
When they blocked the expression of PHD2, researchers at Stanford University School of Medicine in California found that human cancer cells grew more quickly when implanted into mice and there was an increase in the number of blood vessels feeding the tumors. To grow and spread, tumors require a good supply of blood, the study authors noted in a Stanford news release.
Alcohol, Cigarettes and Diabetes Up Colorectal Cancer Risk
June 05, 2009
More than seven drinks a week raises odds 60% over teetotalers, researchers say. It's been known for some time that obesity and eating lots of red meat can raise the risk of colorectal cancer, but new research sheds light on other lifestyle factors that increase risk.
Drinking alcohol, smoking cigarettes and having diabetes also play a major role in determining who is going to develop colorectal cancer, study findings show.
And although exercise seemed to help ward off colorectal cancer, eating lots of fruits and vegetables didn't, according to researchers at The George Institute for International Health in Australia.
Drinking alcohol, smoking cigarettes and having diabetes also play a major role in determining who is going to develop colorectal cancer, study findings show.
And although exercise seemed to help ward off colorectal cancer, eating lots of fruits and vegetables didn't, according to researchers at The George Institute for International Health in Australia.
Grilled Meats Not Tied to Breast Cancer in Older Women
June 05, 2009
Study finds no added risk for eating meat, even when cooked at high temps. Eating meat doesn't increase postmenopausal women's risk for breast cancer, new research has found.
Previous studies looking at whether eating meat and increased breast cancer risk might be linked have yielded inconsistent results.
In the new study, researchers at Albert Einstein College of Medicine of Yeshiva University analyzed data on 120,755 older American women, including the types of food the women ate, how often they ate certain foods and how they prepared their meat.
Previous studies looking at whether eating meat and increased breast cancer risk might be linked have yielded inconsistent results.
In the new study, researchers at Albert Einstein College of Medicine of Yeshiva University analyzed data on 120,755 older American women, including the types of food the women ate, how often they ate certain foods and how they prepared their meat.
Pausing Hormone Therapy Doesn't Cut Mammogram Recalls
June 03, 2009
Repeat imaging rates similar whether women stopped hormone treatment or not, study finds. Taking a break from hormone therapy before a mammogram doesn't lower the likelihood of being called back for extra imaging, a study including more than 1,700 women aged 45 to 80 has found.
"Postmenopausal hormones make breasts denser .
"Postmenopausal hormones make breasts denser .
New Drug Fights Cancer in Dogs
June 03, 2009
Palladia approved to treat dangerous skin tumors Palladia (toceranib phosphate) is the first drug to be approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration specifically to treat cancer in dogs, the agency said in a news release Wednesday.
New Tests Spot Tough-to-Detect Cancers Sooner
June 03, 2009
Researchers devise method for early confirmation of bile duct, pancreatic cancers. Mayo Clinic researchers say they have developed new tests that make it easier to diagnose cancers of the pancreas and bile ducts.
In a study, the new tests more than doubled the detection rate of these cancers, which frequently are fatal because they often are not discovered until their later stages.
"The earlier we can diagnose a patient, the better the types of treatment we can offer, and the more likely they are to have long-term survival after treatment," study senior author Lewis Roberts, a Mayo Clinic gastroenterologist, said in a news release.
In a study, the new tests more than doubled the detection rate of these cancers, which frequently are fatal because they often are not discovered until their later stages.
"The earlier we can diagnose a patient, the better the types of treatment we can offer, and the more likely they are to have long-term survival after treatment," study senior author Lewis Roberts, a Mayo Clinic gastroenterologist, said in a news release.
Want to Stop Cancer? You Can, Experts Say
June 03, 2009
Lifestyle changes have been shown to lower odds, even for those at higher risk. Although some believe that certain people are destined to get cancer and nothing can be done to change their fate, that's just not the case, experts say.
Even people who have genes that predispose them to certain types of cancer might be able to reduce their risk by living a healthy lifestyle, they say.
"Between 27 and 49 percent of people think preventing cancer is impossible or highly unlikely," said Karen Collins, a registered dietitian and a nutrition adviser for the American Institute for Cancer Research.
Even people who have genes that predispose them to certain types of cancer might be able to reduce their risk by living a healthy lifestyle, they say.
"Between 27 and 49 percent of people think preventing cancer is impossible or highly unlikely," said Karen Collins, a registered dietitian and a nutrition adviser for the American Institute for Cancer Research.
Simple Test Could Detect More Gastrointestinal Cancers
June 02, 2009
One stool sample can be used to perform several screens, researchers say. DNA testing of a person's stool can accurately screen for more types of cancer than previously thought, a new study has found.
While DNA stool testing has been successfully used for early detection of colorectal cancer, researchers at Minnesota's Mayo Clinic have found that the noninvasive screening is also good at finding other gastrointestinal cancers, such as those of the pancreas, stomach, bile ducts and esophagus.
"Historically, we've approached cancer screening one organ at a time," the study's lead researcher, Dr.
While DNA stool testing has been successfully used for early detection of colorectal cancer, researchers at Minnesota's Mayo Clinic have found that the noninvasive screening is also good at finding other gastrointestinal cancers, such as those of the pancreas, stomach, bile ducts and esophagus.
"Historically, we've approached cancer screening one organ at a time," the study's lead researcher, Dr.
Research Finds 'New Crop' of Breast Cancer Genes
June 01, 2009
Study in mice also suggests possible treatment with blood pressure med. Researchers say they have found a gene common in up to one in five breast cancers that a blood pressure medication might combat.
Their study, published online in this week's issue of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Science, found that the AGTR1 gene makes healthy breast cells act like cancer cells. But tests on mice with tumors containing the gene found that the blood pressure drug losartan (Cozaar) stopped that behavior and shrank the tumors by 30 percent within eight weeks of treatment, according to the researchers, from the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center.
Their study, published online in this week's issue of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Science, found that the AGTR1 gene makes healthy breast cells act like cancer cells. But tests on mice with tumors containing the gene found that the blood pressure drug losartan (Cozaar) stopped that behavior and shrank the tumors by 30 percent within eight weeks of treatment, according to the researchers, from the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center.
'Micro' Spreading of Breast Cancer Needs Treating, Study Urges
June 01, 2009
Other research cautions against too much screening for lung cancer. Researchers are now recommending that doctors treat women with breast cancer who have tiny metastases in the so-called sentinel lymph nodes.
That's because leaving these cancers untreated appears to result in a higher rate of cancer recurrence, according to a new study.
Skipping additional treatment for the tiny metastases, known as micrometastases or micromets, could actually result in more deaths, said the study's lead author, Dr.
That's because leaving these cancers untreated appears to result in a higher rate of cancer recurrence, according to a new study.
Skipping additional treatment for the tiny metastases, known as micrometastases or micromets, could actually result in more deaths, said the study's lead author, Dr.
Many Childhood Cancer Survivors Not Checking for Second Malignancies
June 01, 2009
Another study found some also suffer PTSD years after treatment. Many childhood cancer survivors aren't following recommended guidelines on screenings for second cancers as they reach adulthood.
And some survivors suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder years after beating their disease, two new studies show.
Not following screening guidelines can be costly because childhood cancer survivors are more likely to develop a new cancer, and to die of that new cancer, than the regular population, the researchers noted.
And some survivors suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder years after beating their disease, two new studies show.
Not following screening guidelines can be costly because childhood cancer survivors are more likely to develop a new cancer, and to die of that new cancer, than the regular population, the researchers noted.
New Technique May Improve Early Cervical Cancer Treatment
June 01, 2009
Modified hysterectomy method could boost survival, German study shows. A new approach to performing radical hysterectomy in early-stage cervical cancer patients reduces the risk of complications, death and local tumor recurrence, a German study shows.
The technique, called total mesometrial resection (TMMR), is a modified version of traditional radical hysterectomy. But this new method employs more accurate, anatomically based resection of the cancer to prevent damage to the pelvic autonomous nervous system and to minimize surgery-related trauma, the University of Leipzig researchers report.
The technique, called total mesometrial resection (TMMR), is a modified version of traditional radical hysterectomy. But this new method employs more accurate, anatomically based resection of the cancer to prevent damage to the pelvic autonomous nervous system and to minimize surgery-related trauma, the University of Leipzig researchers report.
Researchers Spot Genes Linked to Testicular Cancer
June 01, 2009
Discovery could help determine which men are at increased risk, scientists say. U.S. scientists say they've identified key gene variants tied to an increased risk of testicular cancer.
Two Drugs Safe for Rare Forms of Kidney Cancer
June 01, 2009
Early trial suggests efficacy against malignancies that don't respond to other drugs. Using a combination of the drugs temsirolimus (Torisel) and Bryostatin appears to be safe in patients with metastatic kidney cancer, according to early data from 25 patients in a phase 1 trial.
The researchers said a pathway known as mTOR signaling promotes tumor cell proliferation and tumor blood vessel development. The temsirolimus-bryostatin combination blocks two portions of the mTOR signaling pathway, and the early data suggests the drugs may be active in patients with rare forms of renal cell cancer that are less likely to respond to other therapies.
The researchers said a pathway known as mTOR signaling promotes tumor cell proliferation and tumor blood vessel development. The temsirolimus-bryostatin combination blocks two portions of the mTOR signaling pathway, and the early data suggests the drugs may be active in patients with rare forms of renal cell cancer that are less likely to respond to other therapies.
Drug Trials Show Modest Gains Against Lung Cancer
June 01, 2009
Alimta, Zactima extend survival but cure remains out of reach, studies show. Certain drugs offer incremental yet significant improvements in pushing back advanced lung cancer.
That's the conclusion of studies presented Saturday at the annual meeting of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) in Orlando, Fla.
Lung cancer remains America's leading cancer killer, and "significant" improvements in time-to-disease recurrence and survival are measured in weeks and months, not years, experts stress.
That's the conclusion of studies presented Saturday at the annual meeting of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) in Orlando, Fla.
Lung cancer remains America's leading cancer killer, and "significant" improvements in time-to-disease recurrence and survival are measured in weeks and months, not years, experts stress.
Experts Optimistic About Melanoma Vaccine
June 01, 2009
Phase 3 study reports improved survival for those with advanced disease.A vaccine for advanced melanoma has shown promise in a new study.
Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer. The five year-survival rates for local and metastatic melanoma are 65 percent and 16 percent, respectively.
Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer. The five year-survival rates for local and metastatic melanoma are 65 percent and 16 percent, respectively.
Drug Combo Proves Powerful Against Lung Cancer
June 01, 2009
Study finds better outcome for advanced non-small cell malignancies. A two-drug combination treatment proved successful in safely slowing advanced non-small cell lung cancer in a recent clinical trial.
In the study, a phase 3 trial involving 768 people with the disease, those who had erlotinib (Tarceva) added to their dose of the bevacizumab (Avastin) saw the progression of the disease slow more than if on bevacizumab alone. People on the combo therapy tolerated the drugs well and survived an average of 4.
In the study, a phase 3 trial involving 768 people with the disease, those who had erlotinib (Tarceva) added to their dose of the bevacizumab (Avastin) saw the progression of the disease slow more than if on bevacizumab alone. People on the combo therapy tolerated the drugs well and survived an average of 4.
Cancer Survivors Can Still Be Fit, Study Asserts
May 28, 2009
Therapies do not appear to hamper cardiovascular health. Treatment for cancer does not hamper cardiovascular fitness, regardless of the type of cancer, treatment, age or body mass index, a new U.S. study says.
Heat Therapy May Help Prevent Esophageal Cancer
May 27, 2009
Barrett's esophagus patients benefit from destruction of abnormal cells, study shows. Radiofrequency ablation is an effective treatment for precancerous Barrett's esophagus, researchers have found.
In people with Barrett's esophagus, repeated acid reflux causes cells that line the esophagus to be replaced by cells similar to those found in the intestine, according to background information provided in a news release. A small number of people with Barrett's esophagus develop a deadly form of cancer called esophageal adenocarcinoma.
In people with Barrett's esophagus, repeated acid reflux causes cells that line the esophagus to be replaced by cells similar to those found in the intestine, according to background information provided in a news release. A small number of people with Barrett's esophagus develop a deadly form of cancer called esophageal adenocarcinoma.
Fingerprints May Vanish With Cancer Drug
May 27, 2009
Travelers are warned of side effect that could hamper immigration checks. The widely used cancer drug capecitabine can cause people to lose their fingerprints, which could lead to problems when they're trying to enter the United States, an oncologist warns.
Dr. Eng-Huat Tan, a senior consultant in medical oncology at the National Cancer Centre in Singapore, said he now advises people taking capecitabine to carry a doctor's letter when traveling.
Dr. Eng-Huat Tan, a senior consultant in medical oncology at the National Cancer Centre in Singapore, said he now advises people taking capecitabine to carry a doctor's letter when traveling.
U.S. Cancer Death Rates Continue to Fall
May 27, 2009
Report finds 19.2% drop among men, 11.4% among women in past 15 years. Some 650,000 people are alive today who wouldn't be were it not for advances in cancer prevention, detection and treatment over the past 15 years, new statistics show.
The American Cancer Society's Cancer Statistics 2009 report finds an encouraging 19.2 percent drop in cancer death rates among men from 1990 to 2005, as well as an 11.
The American Cancer Society's Cancer Statistics 2009 report finds an encouraging 19.2 percent drop in cancer death rates among men from 1990 to 2005, as well as an 11.
Gene Mutation May Up Risks of Endometrial Cancer
May 27, 2009
Marker indicates aggressiveness of the disease, study finds. A genetic marker for aggressive endometrial cancer has been identified by U.S. researchers, who said their finding could lead to more targeted and risk-appropriate treatments.
Drug May Extend Life When Breast Cancer Spreads
May 26, 2009
Study funded by pharmaceutical company finds benefits in Abraxane. A new study affirms that the chemotherapy drug Abraxane is more effective, with less troublesome side effects, than the current drug of choice for metastatic breast cancer.
When compared with Taxotere, Abraxane extended the time before a recurrence by almost seven months, effectively doubling survival. Both are members of a class of drugs known as taxanes.
When compared with Taxotere, Abraxane extended the time before a recurrence by almost seven months, effectively doubling survival. Both are members of a class of drugs known as taxanes.
Risks Remain for Childhood Cancer Survivors
May 26, 2009
Chance of developing another tumor stays high throughout life, study finds. People who survived cancer as children face a high lifelong risk for developing another cancer, a new study has found.
A study that appears online May 26 in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute went further than earlier studies by following people from birth through age 79. The researchers analyzed data on more than 47,000 people who had been diagnosed with cancer before the age of 20.
A study that appears online May 26 in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute went further than earlier studies by following people from birth through age 79. The researchers analyzed data on more than 47,000 people who had been diagnosed with cancer before the age of 20.
Broad-Spectrum Cervical Cancer Vaccine Shows Promise
May 26, 2009
Tests in animals get good results against more types of HPV, study finds. An investigational broad-spectrum cervical cancer vaccine induced strong immune responses in mice and rabbits, and protected them against human papillomavirus (HPV) type 16 for four months, new research has found.
Current HPV L1-based vaccines provide almost 100 percent protection against the two types of HPV that cause 70 percent of all cervical cancer cases worldwide, but they are expensive and offer only limited protection against other HPV types that cause cancer, according to the researchers. The new vaccine may help cover that gap in protection, they noted.
Current HPV L1-based vaccines provide almost 100 percent protection against the two types of HPV that cause 70 percent of all cervical cancer cases worldwide, but they are expensive and offer only limited protection against other HPV types that cause cancer, according to the researchers. The new vaccine may help cover that gap in protection, they noted.
Cancer Drug May Boost Risk of Gastrointestinal Perforation
May 25, 2009
Review of trials finds Avastin with chemo doubles odds, and was dose-dependent. The use of the drug bevacizumab (Avastin) in combination with chemotherapy greatly increases the risk of gastrointestinal perforations in cancer patients, new research has found.
These perforations are potentially life-threatening holes in the wall of the stomach, small intestine or large bowel.
Bevacizumab is designed to slow the growth of tumors by cutting off their blood supply.
These perforations are potentially life-threatening holes in the wall of the stomach, small intestine or large bowel.
Bevacizumab is designed to slow the growth of tumors by cutting off their blood supply.
Skip the Burgers and Throw Some Veggies on the Grill
May 22, 2009
Health concerns raised by barbecued meats spur new ideas for the summer cookout. If you're given the choice between a grilled hamburger or a grilled Portobello mushroom this Memorial Day weekend, go for the veggie.
Eating meat that's charred or well-done raises the risk of pancreatic cancer, according to a recent study. Grilled veggies don't carry the same risk.
Eating meat that's charred or well-done raises the risk of pancreatic cancer, according to a recent study. Grilled veggies don't carry the same risk.
New Research Sheds Light on Breast Cancer Prognosis
May 22, 2009
Two studies examine protein linked to tumor growth for clues to better treatments. Two new studies have found that levels of the protein caveolin-1 found in stromal connective tissue near a breast cancer tumor can accurately predict a patient's prognosis and may provide a pathway to future treatments.
Low levels of caveolin-1, which plays a role in how cells absorb things, in the stromal cells were linked to a poor patient outcome in a study by Dr. Agnieszka K.
Low levels of caveolin-1, which plays a role in how cells absorb things, in the stromal cells were linked to a poor patient outcome in a study by Dr. Agnieszka K.
Many Black Women Refuse Breast Cancer Treatments
May 22, 2009
Poverty, fear play roles in skipping lifesaving therapies, researchers say. Almost 25 percent of black women with advanced breast cancer refuse the chemotherapy and radiation treatments that could save their lives, a new study finds.
Black women have almost twice the rate of advanced breast cancer as white women do, largely because the disease is often diagnosed after it has already progressed. In addition, some black women have misconceptions about cancer and are reluctant to seek medical help, the researchers said.
Black women have almost twice the rate of advanced breast cancer as white women do, largely because the disease is often diagnosed after it has already progressed. In addition, some black women have misconceptions about cancer and are reluctant to seek medical help, the researchers said.
Low Vitamin D Levels May Initiate Cancer Development
May 22, 2009
Study suggests loss of communication among cells tied to this nutritional deficit. Low levels of vitamin D may contribute to cancer development, U.S. researchers have found.
A New Way to Get Chemo to Pancreatic Tumors
May 21, 2009
Technique that doubles life span in mice may hold hope for people. Researchers are reporting that they've discovered a way to boost chemotherapy and slightly extend the lives of mice with pancreatic cancer, potentially paving the way for more effective treatments in people.
There's no guarantee that the strategy would work in humans. And, even if it did, the researchers don't expect that it would add many months to people's lives.
There's no guarantee that the strategy would work in humans. And, even if it did, the researchers don't expect that it would add many months to people's lives.
Research Reveals How Down Syndrome Shields Against Cancer
May 20, 2009
The findings might someday lead to better treatments, experts say. A pair of genes may explain why people with Down syndrome are largely spared from many types of cancer, Boston researchers report.
The same genetic mechanism could be a potent target for new anti-cancer therapies, said the scientists, who published their findings online May 20 in Nature.
The pressing question now becomes, when will this happen? Or will it happen at all?
"Most universities around the country are very good at finding targets for intervention in cancer and this study suggests that these two genes, if they were overexpressed in a tumor, could shut down the tumor blood vessels," explained Dr.
The same genetic mechanism could be a potent target for new anti-cancer therapies, said the scientists, who published their findings online May 20 in Nature.
The pressing question now becomes, when will this happen? Or will it happen at all?
"Most universities around the country are very good at finding targets for intervention in cancer and this study suggests that these two genes, if they were overexpressed in a tumor, could shut down the tumor blood vessels," explained Dr.
Study Links Cancerous Tumors With Depression
May 20, 2009
Research with rats finds biological tie between growths and mood changes. Doctors have long known that people with cancer often suffer from depression.
A new study in rats has found that the cause of the depression may be the properties of the tumor itself, rather than emotional distress over the diagnosis or side effects from chemotherapy.
The study is the first to identify a biological link between tumors and negative mood changes, according to the researchers, who published their study in the May 18 issue of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
A new study in rats has found that the cause of the depression may be the properties of the tumor itself, rather than emotional distress over the diagnosis or side effects from chemotherapy.
The study is the first to identify a biological link between tumors and negative mood changes, according to the researchers, who published their study in the May 18 issue of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
Stem Cell Study Offers Hope for Targeting Tumors
May 19, 2009
In mice, genetically engineered cells killed cancer but spared healthy cells. Genetically engineered adult stem cells, armed with a cancer-killing protein, have proven successful at targeting several types of tumors while sparing healthy cells, new research has found.
Stem cells carrying TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) destroyed lung, squamous, breast and cervical cancer cells in laboratory cultures, according to British researchers. When tried on mice, the specialized cells shrunk subcutaneous breast tumors by about 80 percent, and when injected intravenously, they helped destroy about 38 percent of metastasized lung tumors in rodents.
Stem cells carrying TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) destroyed lung, squamous, breast and cervical cancer cells in laboratory cultures, according to British researchers. When tried on mice, the specialized cells shrunk subcutaneous breast tumors by about 80 percent, and when injected intravenously, they helped destroy about 38 percent of metastasized lung tumors in rodents.
Poor Women Seem to Be Skipping Breast Cancer Drugs
May 18, 2009
Theories vary as to why, but experts say consequence can be severe. In another sign of the challenges facing the health-care industry as it tries to serve the poor, researchers from North Carolina are reporting that nearly four in 10 poor women recovering from breast cancer do not take the drugs recommended to keep their cancer from returning.
Those who do not follow instructions to take these drugs, medications that block hormones, face a higher risk of dying, said study author Dr. Gretchen Kimmick.
Those who do not follow instructions to take these drugs, medications that block hormones, face a higher risk of dying, said study author Dr. Gretchen Kimmick.
Study Cites Gains in Gall Bladder Cancer Treatment
May 18, 2009
Early detection, aggressive surgery boosts survival times, researchers say. Patients with gallbladder cancer are surviving longer than they used to, but the death rate is still high, new research shows.
An estimated 9,520 cases of gallbladder or bile duct cancer were diagnosed in the United States in 2008, and about 3,340 people died of the disease, according to the study in the May issue of the Archives of Surgery.
The death rate is high, in part, because at the time of diagnosis, many patients already have advanced-stage disease and are not candidates for surgery.
An estimated 9,520 cases of gallbladder or bile duct cancer were diagnosed in the United States in 2008, and about 3,340 people died of the disease, according to the study in the May issue of the Archives of Surgery.
The death rate is high, in part, because at the time of diagnosis, many patients already have advanced-stage disease and are not candidates for surgery.
Short-Term Air Pollution Exposure May Damage DNA
May 18, 2009
Gene reprogramming can occur in just 3 days time. Breathing polluted air for even a short period of time can cause some genes to undergo reprogramming, which may affect a person's risk of developing cancer and other diseases, say Italian researchers.
Comparisons of blood DNA samples from healthy workers who were exposed to high levels of airborne particulates at a foundry near Milan revealed that after only three days of exposure, changes occurred in four genes that have been linked to tumor suppression, according to research presented Sunday at the International Conference of the American Thoracic Society, in San Diego.
This finding indicates "that environmental factors need little time to cause gene reprogramming, which is potentially associated with disease outcomes," investigator Dr.
Comparisons of blood DNA samples from healthy workers who were exposed to high levels of airborne particulates at a foundry near Milan revealed that after only three days of exposure, changes occurred in four genes that have been linked to tumor suppression, according to research presented Sunday at the International Conference of the American Thoracic Society, in San Diego.
This finding indicates "that environmental factors need little time to cause gene reprogramming, which is potentially associated with disease outcomes," investigator Dr.
An Aid to Tailoring Prostate Cancer Treatment
May 15, 2009
4 factors could guide decisions on how aggressive therapy should be. Researchers claim to have found a way to better customize the treatment of prostate cancer.
Four risk factors that can help predict how long men could survive with metastatic prostate cancer have been identified by researchers from the Duke Comprehensive Cancer Center, who say such information would help doctors individualize treatments.
"There is a need for identification of accurate and simple-to-use prognostic factors for men with prostate cancer that has spread beyond the prostate," Andrew Armstrong, a medical oncologist at Duke and the lead investigator for the study, said in a university news release.
Four risk factors that can help predict how long men could survive with metastatic prostate cancer have been identified by researchers from the Duke Comprehensive Cancer Center, who say such information would help doctors individualize treatments.
"There is a need for identification of accurate and simple-to-use prognostic factors for men with prostate cancer that has spread beyond the prostate," Andrew Armstrong, a medical oncologist at Duke and the lead investigator for the study, said in a university news release.
Sharing Cancer Info May Be Empowering
May 15, 2009
Telling children about genetic risks fosters openness, expert says. Parents with family secrets may struggle to decide what to share with their children. But when it comes to cancer running in the family, a new study shows that those who choose to reveal the results of genetic tests are glad they did.
Scientists know that two genes are to blame for the majority of inherited breast and ovarian cancer cases, and tests can show if a woman has those genes.
Scientists know that two genes are to blame for the majority of inherited breast and ovarian cancer cases, and tests can show if a woman has those genes.
Ginger Eases Nausea From Chemo
May 15, 2009
Spice produced 40% reduction in symptoms among breast cancer patients. Researchers have discovered the nausea-easing powers of ginger that many grandmothers are already familiar with, and report that the spice helped cancer patients who were undergoing chemotherapy.
"Ginger at a daily dose of 0.5-to-1 gram significantly aids in the reduction of chemotherapy-related nausea on the first day of chemotherapy, and reduced nausea will lead to improved quality of life in many cancer patients," said study author Julie Ryan, an assistant professor of dermatology and radiation oncology at the James P.
"Ginger at a daily dose of 0.5-to-1 gram significantly aids in the reduction of chemotherapy-related nausea on the first day of chemotherapy, and reduced nausea will lead to improved quality of life in many cancer patients," said study author Julie Ryan, an assistant professor of dermatology and radiation oncology at the James P.
Immune Therapy May Aid Kids With Neuroblastoma
May 15, 2009
Researchers praise new treatment for deadly cancer. In a phase 3 clinical trial, an experimental immune-based treatment boosted by 20 percent the overall survival of those with tough-to-treat neuroblastoma, which affects mostly children.
The findings are to be presented at the American Society for Clinical Oncology annual meeting, which starts later this month in Florida.
The trial involved 226 patients newly diagnosed with high-risk neuroblastoma, a cancer of the nervous system.
The findings are to be presented at the American Society for Clinical Oncology annual meeting, which starts later this month in Florida.
The trial involved 226 patients newly diagnosed with high-risk neuroblastoma, a cancer of the nervous system.
Prior Cervical Dysplasia May Boost Cancer's Return
May 12, 2009
Women over 40 with history of the condition at greater risk, study concludes. Women previously treated for cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) are at higher risk for recurrence of severe CIN and invasive cervical cancer than women who haven't been diagnosed with CIN, a new U.S. study suggests.
Healthy Behaviors Slow Functional Decline After Cancer
May 12, 2009
Diet, exercise may improve endurance in older, overweight cancer survivors, study shows. A home-based diet and exercise program slowed the decline of physical function in older, overweight cancer survivors, new research has found.
The study participants included 641 people in the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom, aged 65 to 91, who were overweight and were long-term (five years or more) survivors of breast, prostate and colorectal cancer. Some were assigned to a control group, while others were assigned to a 12-month intervention program that included telephone counseling, mailed materials promoting exercise, improved diet, and modest weight loss.
The study participants included 641 people in the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom, aged 65 to 91, who were overweight and were long-term (five years or more) survivors of breast, prostate and colorectal cancer. Some were assigned to a control group, while others were assigned to a 12-month intervention program that included telephone counseling, mailed materials promoting exercise, improved diet, and modest weight loss.
More Cancer Tests Mean More False-Positive Results
May 11, 2009
Risk for incorrect but worrying findings rises 50 percent by the 14th test, study finds. The more cancer screening tests you undergo, the higher your risk of having at least one false-positive result, researchers say.
While that conclusion may seem like common sense, it's not something that patients or doctors often consider, suggest the authors of a study in the May/June issue of the Annals of Family Medicine.
False-positive results from routine cancer screening can cause undue worry and in some cases lead to unnecessary biopsies or treatments, experts note.
While that conclusion may seem like common sense, it's not something that patients or doctors often consider, suggest the authors of a study in the May/June issue of the Annals of Family Medicine.
False-positive results from routine cancer screening can cause undue worry and in some cases lead to unnecessary biopsies or treatments, experts note.
Where You Live May Affect Your Cancer Diagnosis
May 11, 2009
Risk of late-stage cancer greater in city dwellers than in rural residents, study shows. Living in the city could lead to certain common cancers being diagnosed at much later stages of their development, new research has found.
A study of residents of Illinois finds that city dwellers are more likely to have doctors spot breast, colorectal, lung or prostate cancer later in the disease's progression than their peers residing in the suburbs or rural areas. The rates for these late-stage cancers were highest in Chicago, the most densely populated and urban of the areas in the analysis, and tapered off the more rural and sparse an area's population became, according to the findings, which were based on a review of the 1998 to 2002 Illinois State Cancer Registry.
A study of residents of Illinois finds that city dwellers are more likely to have doctors spot breast, colorectal, lung or prostate cancer later in the disease's progression than their peers residing in the suburbs or rural areas. The rates for these late-stage cancers were highest in Chicago, the most densely populated and urban of the areas in the analysis, and tapered off the more rural and sparse an area's population became, according to the findings, which were based on a review of the 1998 to 2002 Illinois State Cancer Registry.
3-Drug Combo Reduces Nausea After Chemo
May 11, 2009
Study finds adding casopitant mesylate to usual regimen significantly cuts side effects. The addition of the drug casopitant mesylate (CM) to the conventional two-drug regimen of dexamethasone and ondansetron greatly reduces chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) in patients undergoing highly emetogenic chemotherapy (HEC), a new study concludes.
HEC is used to treat many types of solid tumor cancers, including colorectal and pancreatic cancer. Drugs such as dexamethasone and ondansetron are effective in reducing CINV in the first 24 hours after chemotherapy but only provide moderate relief during the delayed phase (24 to 120 hours after chemotherapy).
HEC is used to treat many types of solid tumor cancers, including colorectal and pancreatic cancer. Drugs such as dexamethasone and ondansetron are effective in reducing CINV in the first 24 hours after chemotherapy but only provide moderate relief during the delayed phase (24 to 120 hours after chemotherapy).
Conflicts of Interest Still Exist in Cancer Research
May 11, 2009
Medical journals need to be more vigilant, analysis suggests. A recent analysis of major medical journals has found many potential conflicts of interest between researchers and medical industry companies, raising concern that investigators may at least be tempted to report favorable results to help the financial backers of their work.
The analysis, to be published in the June 15 issue of Cancer and headed by the University of Michigan, looked at more than 1,500 cancer studies published in eight authoritative journals, including Cancer, the New England Journal of Medicine and the Lancet, during a recent year and found:
Randomized clinical trials that assessed patient survival were more likely to link a survival advantage to the medical treatment being studied when a conflict of interest was present.
These trials, the authors noted, are how drugs, technologies, procedures and so on eventually get approved for use in medical practices.
The analysis, to be published in the June 15 issue of Cancer and headed by the University of Michigan, looked at more than 1,500 cancer studies published in eight authoritative journals, including Cancer, the New England Journal of Medicine and the Lancet, during a recent year and found:
Randomized clinical trials that assessed patient survival were more likely to link a survival advantage to the medical treatment being studied when a conflict of interest was present.
These trials, the authors noted, are how drugs, technologies, procedures and so on eventually get approved for use in medical practices.
Genes Linked to Spread of Breast Cancer
May 06, 2009
Study identifies three genetic ties to brain metastasis. Three genes linked to the spread of breast cancer to the brain have been identified by U.S. researchers, who say the finding could help lead to new treatments.
Biomarkers May Predict Aggressiveness of Prostate Cancer
May 05, 2009
Cancer expert is wary of finding, however.Three molecules associated with prostate cancer might provide the long-sought markers that could discern which tumors are life-threatening and need aggressive treatment, a new study indicates.
The currently hot debate about the value of screening for early detection of prostate cancer hinges on the fact that the cancer is usually so slow-growing that there is no lifesaving benefit from treatment such as surgery, which can cause impotence and incontinence. Recent studies in the United States and Europe found at best limited benefit from routine prostate cancer screening, and new guidelines from the American Urological Association say that many men do not need annual screening tests.
The currently hot debate about the value of screening for early detection of prostate cancer hinges on the fact that the cancer is usually so slow-growing that there is no lifesaving benefit from treatment such as surgery, which can cause impotence and incontinence. Recent studies in the United States and Europe found at best limited benefit from routine prostate cancer screening, and new guidelines from the American Urological Association say that many men do not need annual screening tests.
Hospital Volume Imperfect Gauge of Cancer Surgery Outcomes
May 04, 2009
Review finds inconsistent results, questions validity of numbers. Looking at the number of cancer surgeries performed at a hospital to determine where patients will receive the best care is a useful, but imperfect, method, say Australian researchers who reviewed 101 studies on hospital case volume and patient outcomes.
The studies included more than 1 million patients with esophageal, gastric, hepatic, pancreatic, colon or rectal cancer.
The review authors found a significant association between hospital case volume and death risk for five of the six cancer types.
The studies included more than 1 million patients with esophageal, gastric, hepatic, pancreatic, colon or rectal cancer.
The review authors found a significant association between hospital case volume and death risk for five of the six cancer types.
Delivering Chemo Directly Into Brain Tumors Shows Promise
May 04, 2009
Survival times for those with malignant gliomas increased, study found. Using a catheter to deliver chemotherapy drugs directly into a deadly type of brain tumor is showing promise in early clinical trials, researchers report.
Malignant gliomas are difficult to treat using standard chemotherapy and radiation treatments. Only about 3 percent of patients diagnosed with a malignant glioma survive five years or more, according to background information in the study.
Malignant gliomas are difficult to treat using standard chemotherapy and radiation treatments. Only about 3 percent of patients diagnosed with a malignant glioma survive five years or more, according to background information in the study.
Smoking Packs a Tougher Wallop for Women
May 04, 2009
Research suggests greater female susceptibility to carcinogens. Women may be more vulnerable than men to cancer-causing ingredients in cigarettes, according to a new study.
In an examination of data on 683 people with lung cancer who had been referred to a lung cancer center between 2000 and 2005, Swiss researchers found that female patients tended to be younger when they developed the disease, even though they tended to smoke significantly fewer cigarettes than men.
"Our findings suggest that women may have an increased susceptibility to tobacco carcinogens," wrote Dr.
In an examination of data on 683 people with lung cancer who had been referred to a lung cancer center between 2000 and 2005, Swiss researchers found that female patients tended to be younger when they developed the disease, even though they tended to smoke significantly fewer cigarettes than men.
"Our findings suggest that women may have an increased susceptibility to tobacco carcinogens," wrote Dr.
Anemia Drugs May Raise Death Risk in Cancer Patients
May 01, 2009
Latest findings support recent label warnings for Procrit, Aranesp, experts say
. Two new studies provide more evidence that drugs such as Procrit and Aranesp, often used by cancer patients to fight anemia-linked fatigue, may boost the risk of death and serious adverse events such as blood clots.
These drugs, called erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs), have also been associated in prior studies with increased risk of heart attack, stroke and tumor growth. The primary argument for the continued use of these drugs is that they help reduce the number of blood transfusions some cancer patients need, while improving quality of life.
. Two new studies provide more evidence that drugs such as Procrit and Aranesp, often used by cancer patients to fight anemia-linked fatigue, may boost the risk of death and serious adverse events such as blood clots.
These drugs, called erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs), have also been associated in prior studies with increased risk of heart attack, stroke and tumor growth. The primary argument for the continued use of these drugs is that they help reduce the number of blood transfusions some cancer patients need, while improving quality of life.
Breast Self-Exam Rates Go Up With Counseling
April 30, 2009
Instruction and encouragement take the worry away, researcher says. Women were 10 times more likely to do breast self-examinations if they took part in an brief intervention program that included one counseling session and two follow-up phone calls, a U.S. study has found.
Young Women's Breast Tissue Offers Clues to Cancer Risk
April 30, 2009
Tissue density tied to chances of disease in middle-age and beyond, study suggests. Breast cancer risk assessment and prevention should start much earlier in life than it currently does, say Canadian researchers who examined breast cancer risk factors in young women.
The study of 400 women, ages 15 to 39, and their mothers found that breast tissue composition in young women may be associated with their risk for breast cancer in middle age and older.
"It is known that the breast is most susceptible to the effects of carcinogens at early ages.
The study of 400 women, ages 15 to 39, and their mothers found that breast tissue composition in young women may be associated with their risk for breast cancer in middle age and older.
"It is known that the breast is most susceptible to the effects of carcinogens at early ages.
Minorities to Bear Brunt of Rise in U.S. Cancer Cases
April 29, 2009
Rate among Hispanics, blacks will double over next 20 years, report warns. The United States will see a surge in the number of new cancers over the next two decades, driven by an aging population and an increased proportion of minorities, a new report predicts.
Rates of new cancer diagnosis are expected to jump by 45 percent among the population generally and by 67 percent among people aged 65 or older. New cancer cases are predicted to double among minorities, experts say.
Rates of new cancer diagnosis are expected to jump by 45 percent among the population generally and by 67 percent among people aged 65 or older. New cancer cases are predicted to double among minorities, experts say.
Acrylamide Doesn't Raise Lung Cancer Risk
April 28, 2009
Controversial food byproduct even showed protection for women, study finds. Acrylamide, a food byproduct that some research has linked to certain cancers, doesn't raise the risk of lung cancer in men and may even offer slight protection for women, new research suggests.
In a study that included more than 120,000 men and women, Dutch researchers reported that they found no association between lung cancer and acrylamide in men and an 18 percent lower risk in women for a 10-microgram/day average intake of acrylamide.
"After taking smoking and other lung cancer risk factors into account, it turned out that men who ingested more acrylamide were not more likely to be diagnosed with lung cancer than men who consumed less acrylamide," said study author Janneke G.
In a study that included more than 120,000 men and women, Dutch researchers reported that they found no association between lung cancer and acrylamide in men and an 18 percent lower risk in women for a 10-microgram/day average intake of acrylamide.
"After taking smoking and other lung cancer risk factors into account, it turned out that men who ingested more acrylamide were not more likely to be diagnosed with lung cancer than men who consumed less acrylamide," said study author Janneke G.
Gene Alteration May Affect Breast Cancer Therapy
April 28, 2009
Less toxic regimen could be sufficient for some women, study finds. Certain gene alterations improve breast cancer patients' response to anthracycline therapy, Canadian researchers say.
They found that women with tumors that carried topoisomerase II alpha (TOP2A) gene alterations had 65 percent better relapse-free survival and 67 percent better overall survival when treated with an anthracycline-containing regimen (cyclophosphamide, epirubicin and 5-fluorouracil [CEF]) than when treated with a non-anthracycline-containing regimen (cyclophosphamide, methotrexate and 5-fluorouracil [CMF]).
Women whose tumors were TOP2A-normal, however, had a similar response to both therapies.
They found that women with tumors that carried topoisomerase II alpha (TOP2A) gene alterations had 65 percent better relapse-free survival and 67 percent better overall survival when treated with an anthracycline-containing regimen (cyclophosphamide, epirubicin and 5-fluorouracil [CEF]) than when treated with a non-anthracycline-containing regimen (cyclophosphamide, methotrexate and 5-fluorouracil [CMF]).
Women whose tumors were TOP2A-normal, however, had a similar response to both therapies.
Well Water Might Raise Bladder Cancer Risk
April 27, 2009
Study cites sun and smoke as other factors linked to the disease. Sun exposure, smoking and the source of water used for drinking may each play a role in whether someone develops and dies from bladder cancer, according to a new study.
Researchers from the University of Alabama at Birmingham found that well water consumption was linked to a higher incidence of bladder cancer in women and death from the disease in men and women alike. They speculated that this might be from pesticides leeching into unmonitored wells.
Researchers from the University of Alabama at Birmingham found that well water consumption was linked to a higher incidence of bladder cancer in women and death from the disease in men and women alike. They speculated that this might be from pesticides leeching into unmonitored wells.
Drug May Help Against Inflammatory Breast Cancer
April 27, 2009
Study shows those who respond to lapatinib survive longer. The drug lapatinib could be used to treat aggressive inflammatory breast cancer, suggest the findings of a phase 2 study.
Inflammatory breast cancer accounts for up to 6 percent of all invasive breast tumors in the United States and western Europe, according to the researchers. Symptoms include rapid onset of swelling, redness of breast skin, a pitted appearance caused by fluid under the skin of more than two-thirds of the breast, tenderness, hardening and warming of the breast.
Inflammatory breast cancer accounts for up to 6 percent of all invasive breast tumors in the United States and western Europe, according to the researchers. Symptoms include rapid onset of swelling, redness of breast skin, a pitted appearance caused by fluid under the skin of more than two-thirds of the breast, tenderness, hardening and warming of the breast.
Heart, Bone Problems May Follow Prostate Cancer Treatment
April 27, 2009
Men on hormone-lowering therapy may require close monitoring, researchers say. Though proven effective, treating prostate cancer with the testosterone-lowering treatment known as androgen deprivation therapy may raise men's risk for developing bone fractures and fatal cardiovascular disease, a new study suggests.
The likelihood of developing either side effect remains low, the researchers noted. But the study shines fresh light on the question of how best to weigh the potential benefits of androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) against the potentially serious complications that can ensue.
The likelihood of developing either side effect remains low, the researchers noted. But the study shines fresh light on the question of how best to weigh the potential benefits of androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) against the potentially serious complications that can ensue.
Nanoparticles May Help Attack Cancer More Directly
April 25, 2009
Method tested in mice could allow more potent treatment with fewer side effects. Nanoparticles designed to provide more direct delivery of cancer drugs to tumors have been developed by U.S. researchers.
Don't Lower Age for Cervical Cancer Test, Study Urges
April 24, 2009
Researchers say older women need screening as much as younger ones. Cervical cancer screening should continue for women older than 50 .
Agent Orange Exposure Tied to Prostate Cancer Return
April 23, 2009
Study finds vets at higher risk of aggressive recurrence only 8 months after surgery. U.S. male military veterans exposed to the Agent Orange herbicide/defoliant are at increased risk for aggressive recurrence of prostate cancer, a new study finds.
Kids Given Photos of Sunburn Damage Covered Up Better
April 23, 2009
Study says every preteen should get UV snapshot of what exposure can do to their skin. Showing middle-school students ultraviolet photographs that reveal the sun damage to their faces makes them less likely to get sunburns in the months following, new research says.
Researchers recruited 111 students aged 11 to 13 from Quincy, Mass., which had a melanoma rate higher than expected from 1999 to 2003.
Researchers recruited 111 students aged 11 to 13 from Quincy, Mass., which had a melanoma rate higher than expected from 1999 to 2003.
No Verdict Yet on Grape Seed Extract vs. Breast Cancer
April 23, 2009
Researchers plan more controlled study at different dosages. More research is needed to determine whether grape seed extract lowers hormone levels in postmenopausal women and provides protection against breast cancer, say researchers at the City of Hope cancer center in Duarte, Calif.
Because studies have suggested that grape seed extract inhibits aromatase, an enzyme that helps in estrogen production, the researchers looked at whether grape seed extract supplements could lower hormone levels in postmenopausal women.
What they found was a dramatic and sustained decrease in one patient with high baseline estrogen levels.
Because studies have suggested that grape seed extract inhibits aromatase, an enzyme that helps in estrogen production, the researchers looked at whether grape seed extract supplements could lower hormone levels in postmenopausal women.
What they found was a dramatic and sustained decrease in one patient with high baseline estrogen levels.
Osteoporosis Drugs Might Not Raise Cancer Risk
April 22, 2009
Two studies suggest bisphosphonates don't increase chances of esophageal tumors. Two new studies find that the class of osteoporosis drugs known as bisphosphonates may not, in fact, raise the risk of esophageal cancer.
This is in contrast to news earlier this year that the U.S.
This is in contrast to news earlier this year that the U.S.
Acupuncture Cuts Dry Mouth in Cancer Patients
April 22, 2009
Small study suggests larger trials needed to assess therapy over longer time. Acupuncture reduces severe dry mouth (xerostomia) among patients receiving radiation for head and neck cancer, a small pilot study suggests.
"The quality of life in patients with radiation-induced xerostomia is profoundly impaired," study senior author Mark S. Chambers, a professor in the dental oncology department at the University of Texas M.
"The quality of life in patients with radiation-induced xerostomia is profoundly impaired," study senior author Mark S. Chambers, a professor in the dental oncology department at the University of Texas M.
HRT May Protect Women From Colon Cancer
April 22, 2009
Finding echoes earlier research involving hormone therapy. Older women using hormone replacement therapy appear to have a 28 percent reduction in their risk of developing colorectal cancer, a new study found.
But researchers don't yet know why the link seems to exist. And the main message to women remains the same: Take hormone replacement therapy at the lowest dose possible for the shortest period of time possible and only for menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes.
But researchers don't yet know why the link seems to exist. And the main message to women remains the same: Take hormone replacement therapy at the lowest dose possible for the shortest period of time possible and only for menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes.
Soy May Not Lead to Denser Breasts
April 22, 2009
Study finds no link to condition that can increase cancer risk. Soy isoflavones don't increase breast density, a new study finds.
That's good news because it's believed that increased breast density is associated with a higher risk of breast cancer. A number of studies have suggested that dietary factors, including isoflavones (estrogen-like plant compounds) might increase breast density.
That's good news because it's believed that increased breast density is associated with a higher risk of breast cancer. A number of studies have suggested that dietary factors, including isoflavones (estrogen-like plant compounds) might increase breast density.
Gene Studies Reveal Cancer's Secrets
April 22, 2009
Key alterations hold clues to blood, bladder and ovarian malignancies, researchers say. A close look at a tumor's or patient's genetics can provide important, potentially lifesaving clues to preventing and treating cancer.
So say scientists who outlined their research Tuesday in five presentations at the American Association for Cancer Research's annual meeting, in Denver.
"This is an interesting set of presentations," John S.
So say scientists who outlined their research Tuesday in five presentations at the American Association for Cancer Research's annual meeting, in Denver.
"This is an interesting set of presentations," John S.
Walnuts May Help Keep Breast Cancer at Bay
April 21, 2009
Study in mice finds fewer, smaller tumors in those that ate the nuts. Walnuts contain compounds that may help prevent breast cancer, suggest findings from a study involving mice specially created to develop tumors.
One group of mice was fed a daily diet that included what would be equivalent to 2 ounces of walnuts in humans, while another group of mice ate a regular diet. The mice that ate the diet with walnuts had a much lower incidence of breast tumors, fewer glands with a tumor and smaller-sized tumors.
One group of mice was fed a daily diet that included what would be equivalent to 2 ounces of walnuts in humans, while another group of mice ate a regular diet. The mice that ate the diet with walnuts had a much lower incidence of breast tumors, fewer glands with a tumor and smaller-sized tumors.
A 'Smart Bomb' for Prostate Cancer?
April 21, 2009
Tested in mice, new chemo delivery system may increase accuracy, researchers say. Researchers were able to shrink prostate cancer cells in mice using a new drug delivery method that combines imaging with chemotherapy in a single agent.
"It's like a smart bomb, to use a military analogy," Dr. John P.
"It's like a smart bomb, to use a military analogy," Dr. John P.
Wine May Guard Against Lymphoma Recurrence
April 21, 2009
Patients who drank before diagnosis had reduced risk of relapse or death, study finds. Patients with non-Hodgkin lymphoma who drank wine before their diagnosis appeared to have a reduced risk of relapse or death, according to a study that's the first to identify this connection.
The researchers looked at more than 500 women with non-Hodgkin lymphoma and found that, overall, those who drank wine before their diagnosis had a 76 percent five-year survival rate, compared with 68 percent for those who didn't drink wine. The five-year, disease-free survival rate was 70 percent for wine drinkers and 65 percent for non-wine drinkers.
The researchers looked at more than 500 women with non-Hodgkin lymphoma and found that, overall, those who drank wine before their diagnosis had a 76 percent five-year survival rate, compared with 68 percent for those who didn't drink wine. The five-year, disease-free survival rate was 70 percent for wine drinkers and 65 percent for non-wine drinkers.
Charring Meat May Boost Risk of Pancreatic Cancer
April 21, 2009
Increases production of carcinogens thought to invite disease, study finds. You may love your steak well done, but eating burned or charred meat may increase your risk of pancreatic cancer, a new study suggests.
Researchers used data on the meat intake, preferred cooking methods and doneness preferences of nearly 63,000 participants taking part in the Prostate, Lung, Colorectal and Ovarian Multi-Center Screening Trial
Over the course of nine years, 208 developed pancreatic cancer.
Meat-eaters who preferred their steak very well done were almost 60 percent more likely to get pancreatic cancer compared to those who ate steak less well done or did not eat steak.
Researchers used data on the meat intake, preferred cooking methods and doneness preferences of nearly 63,000 participants taking part in the Prostate, Lung, Colorectal and Ovarian Multi-Center Screening Trial
Over the course of nine years, 208 developed pancreatic cancer.
Meat-eaters who preferred their steak very well done were almost 60 percent more likely to get pancreatic cancer compared to those who ate steak less well done or did not eat steak.
Experts Highlight Inroads to Preventing Cancer
April 21, 2009
Folic acid supplements, smoking and genetics are among research targets. Scientists looking at everyday factors that influence cancer risk are finding important new clues that could affect cancer prevention strategies.
"Many of us believe that prevention is better than trying to identify drugs for people after they get cancer," said Dr. Peter Shields, deputy director of the Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center and interim chairman of the Department of Medicine at Georgetown University Medical Center in Washington, D.
"Many of us believe that prevention is better than trying to identify drugs for people after they get cancer," said Dr. Peter Shields, deputy director of the Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center and interim chairman of the Department of Medicine at Georgetown University Medical Center in Washington, D.
Grapefruit Juice Boosts Anti-Cancer Drug's Effects
April 20, 2009
Small study finds 8-ounce glass enhances absorption of rapamycin 3 to 4 times. Grapefruit juice boosts the anti-cancer effects of the drug rapamycin, according to a small study that included 25 patients with advanced solid tumors, for which there is no effective treatment.
The patients took 15- to 35-milligram doses of the drug, as a liquid, once a week. After the first week of the study, they also drank a glass (eight ounces) of grapefruit juice immediately after taking the drug and once a day for the rest of the week.
The patients took 15- to 35-milligram doses of the drug, as a liquid, once a week. After the first week of the study, they also drank a glass (eight ounces) of grapefruit juice immediately after taking the drug and once a day for the rest of the week.
Older Men Need to Take Closer Look for Melanomas
April 20, 2009
If you can't examine your own back, have a loved one take a look, study says. A new study delivers a lifesaving message to older men about the potentially deadly skin cancer known as melanoma: If you can't examine your own back, have a loved one take a look, and if there's something suspicious, see a doctor.
"We were trying to understand why it is that when a doctor finds a melanoma, it usually is thinner compared to a person finding it by himself," said Alan C. Geller, a senior research scientist at the Harvard School of Public Health, and a co-author of one of two reports on melanoma in older men that appears in the April issue of the Archives of Dermatology.
"We were trying to understand why it is that when a doctor finds a melanoma, it usually is thinner compared to a person finding it by himself," said Alan C. Geller, a senior research scientist at the Harvard School of Public Health, and a co-author of one of two reports on melanoma in older men that appears in the April issue of the Archives of Dermatology.
Robotic Surgery Practical for Some Head, Neck Tumors
April 20, 2009
But more research needed to define advantages, limits of procedure, study suggests. Robot-assisted surgery may be useful for removal of certain head and neck cancers, U.S. researchers say.
Radiation Exposure Linked to Aggressive Thyroid Cancers
April 20, 2009
Environmental or therapeutic contact also led to poorer outcomes, study finds. Thyroid cancer patients who've previously been exposed to radiation have more aggressive disease and worse outcomes than other patients, a new study finds.
Researchers at Mount Sinai Hospital in Toronto studied 125 thyroid cancer patients who'd been exposed to radiation .
Researchers at Mount Sinai Hospital in Toronto studied 125 thyroid cancer patients who'd been exposed to radiation .
Study Rates Breast Cancer Risks Among Races
April 20, 2009
Researchers find white and black women share certain risks; other factors are more distinctive. White women and black women in the United States share certain breast cancer risk factors but appear to have distinctive risk factors as well, a new study shows.
Researchers conducting on ongoing study have so far enrolled 1,826 white and 360 black women with breast cancer, and 1,766 healthy white and 240 healthy black women. The initial data shows that lack of physical activity and being overweight or obese are associated with a 20 percent increased risk of breast cancer in both groups of women.
Researchers conducting on ongoing study have so far enrolled 1,826 white and 360 black women with breast cancer, and 1,766 healthy white and 240 healthy black women. The initial data shows that lack of physical activity and being overweight or obese are associated with a 20 percent increased risk of breast cancer in both groups of women.
Doctor-Patient Talks Key to Blacks Getting Cancer Screens
April 20, 2009
Poor communication a major problem in low screening rates but one that can be fixed, study suggests. Poor doctor-patient communication and not having a regular primary-care doctor may be major reasons for low colorectal cancer screening rates among black Americans, a new study suggests.
Researchers surveyed 1,081 blacks, aged 65 to 79, in Baltimore, and found that those who'd been screened for colorectal cancer were more likely to report better overall health status than those who hadn't been screened.
Further analysis revealed that respondents who said their doctor "explains things in a way you understand" were 50 percent more likely to have been screened for colorectal cancer.
Researchers surveyed 1,081 blacks, aged 65 to 79, in Baltimore, and found that those who'd been screened for colorectal cancer were more likely to report better overall health status than those who hadn't been screened.
Further analysis revealed that respondents who said their doctor "explains things in a way you understand" were 50 percent more likely to have been screened for colorectal cancer.
Science Makes Inroads Against Prostate, Other Cancers
April 20, 2009
In studies, an immune boost fights prostate tumors, and better drugs outwit brain, pancreatic malignancies. Harnessing cutting-edge techniques, a variety of human, animal and laboratory studies are suggesting innovative new ways to beat cancer.
Brain, prostate, and pancreatic cancer are some of the specific targets of the new research described Sunday in Denver at the annual meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research.
"This is an extremely exciting time in cancer research," observed Dr.
Brain, prostate, and pancreatic cancer are some of the specific targets of the new research described Sunday in Denver at the annual meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research.
"This is an extremely exciting time in cancer research," observed Dr.
Targeted Treatments Show Mettle Against Advanced Cancers
April 20, 2009
Progression-free survival longer when treatment aimed at specific tumor traits. Patients with a variety of advanced cancers who had been faring poorly on less finely tuned therapies did better when they received treatments that were targeted to their tumors' specific characteristics.
The findings, which were to be presented Sunday at the American Association for Cancer Research annual meeting, in Denver, fit into the current framework of "personalized" medicine, explained Dr. Minetta Liu, a translational researcher/breast oncologist at Georgetown University's Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center in Washington, D.
The findings, which were to be presented Sunday at the American Association for Cancer Research annual meeting, in Denver, fit into the current framework of "personalized" medicine, explained Dr. Minetta Liu, a translational researcher/breast oncologist at Georgetown University's Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center in Washington, D.
Chemo Combo Shows Promise Against Ovarian Cancer
April 20, 2009
Lab-based study focused on certain types of malignancies. Adding the drug dasatinib to a standard, two-drug chemotherapy regimen for treating ovarian cancer boosted the effectiveness of the drugs in laboratory tests, new research shows.
Researchers at the Duke Comprehensive Cancer Center added dasatinib, along with carboplatin and paclitaxel, to four types of ovarian cancer cells.
In some types of ovarian cancers, a pathway called SRC is involved in the abnormal cell proliferation, said Dr.
Researchers at the Duke Comprehensive Cancer Center added dasatinib, along with carboplatin and paclitaxel, to four types of ovarian cancer cells.
In some types of ovarian cancers, a pathway called SRC is involved in the abnormal cell proliferation, said Dr.
Research Takes Aim at Pancreatic Cancer
April 18, 2009
Discovery and testing in mice may lead to better detection and treatment. An active receptor found in certain pancreatic cancers might offer hope for treatment of the often fatal disease.
A third of human pancreatic cancers looked at by Johns Hopkins University researchers contained a malfunctioning phosophorylated epidermal growth factor receptor (pEGFR), which previous studies had noted as being active in some lung cancers. When mice with this type of pancreatic cancer were given erlotinib, an EGFR-inhibitor drug approved for lung cancer treatment, the pancreatic tumors shrank, according to a news release from Experimental Biology 2009, a program of the American Society for Investigative Pathology.
A third of human pancreatic cancers looked at by Johns Hopkins University researchers contained a malfunctioning phosophorylated epidermal growth factor receptor (pEGFR), which previous studies had noted as being active in some lung cancers. When mice with this type of pancreatic cancer were given erlotinib, an EGFR-inhibitor drug approved for lung cancer treatment, the pancreatic tumors shrank, according to a news release from Experimental Biology 2009, a program of the American Society for Investigative Pathology.
'Phase 0' Trials Aim to Speed Cancer Drug Development
April 17, 2009
Report on first such study involves effort to improve chemotherapy effectiveness. Even after years of painstaking research and testing, only a small percentage of cancer agents make it from the laboratory to the patient. So scientists have come up with a way to weed out the duds earlier in the process and speed good medications to the marketplace.
The new model, a so-called "phase 0" clinical trial, promises to streamline the costly and time-consuming drug development process, helping to deliver good drugs to people who need them more quickly.
The new model, a so-called "phase 0" clinical trial, promises to streamline the costly and time-consuming drug development process, helping to deliver good drugs to people who need them more quickly.
Dense Breasts Complicate Testing and Treatment
April 16, 2009
Risk factor is one women can do little about, experts say. For years, researchers have known that breast density is almost as important as age in predicting who will develop breast cancer.
But now they're discovering how the density of a woman's breast tissue can also predict how she will respond to cancer treatment and whether her cancer will recur.
The denser a woman's breasts, the less fat they have, explained Diana Buist, an epidemiologist at Group Health Center for Health Studies in Seattle.
But now they're discovering how the density of a woman's breast tissue can also predict how she will respond to cancer treatment and whether her cancer will recur.
The denser a woman's breasts, the less fat they have, explained Diana Buist, an epidemiologist at Group Health Center for Health Studies in Seattle.
Sleep May Be Cause, Not Consequence, of Cancer Issues
April 15, 2009
Researchers suggest treating insomnia as a way to address pain. The pain and depression reported by people with cancer has often led to trouble sleeping .
New Technology Allows Better Monitoring of Cancer Cells
April 15, 2009
Researchers foresee an increased ability to diagnose the disease. A new imaging technology could help improve the tracking of changes in cancer cells, according to researchers from the Stanford University School of Medicine.
The technology uses specially designed dye-containing nanoparticles to simultaneously measure dozens of features in or on a single cell.
Current single-flow technologies are capable of up to 17 simultaneous measurements, but the new method has the potential to do far more, according to a Stanford news release.
The technology uses specially designed dye-containing nanoparticles to simultaneously measure dozens of features in or on a single cell.
Current single-flow technologies are capable of up to 17 simultaneous measurements, but the new method has the potential to do far more, according to a Stanford news release.
New Drug Being Tested for Pancreatic Cancer
April 15, 2009
Lab findings show potential for use alone or in combination, scientist says. An experimental drug appeared to reduce pancreatic cancer growth in laboratory tests, according to researchers from the drug's maker, Amgen.
Called AMG 479, the drug is designed to inhibit the activity of insulin-like growth factors IGF-1 and IGF-2.
"We know that insulin-like growth factors play a role in cancer development, particularly in mediating cell survival," Pedro J.
Called AMG 479, the drug is designed to inhibit the activity of insulin-like growth factors IGF-1 and IGF-2.
"We know that insulin-like growth factors play a role in cancer development, particularly in mediating cell survival," Pedro J.
Radiation-Chemo Combo Boosts Lung Cancer Outcomes
April 14, 2009
Getting both simultaneously linked to longer survival, study concludes. New research shows people with advanced lung cancer can survive longer when treated simultaneously with high-dose radiation and chemotherapy.
A study by the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center found that patients with stage 3 non-small cell lung cancer survived, on average, almost 16 months after diagnosis when given high-dose radiation and chemotherapy at the same time. This compares with an average of about seven months for those treated only with radiation and almost 15 months for those receiving radiation before chemotherapy.
A study by the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center found that patients with stage 3 non-small cell lung cancer survived, on average, almost 16 months after diagnosis when given high-dose radiation and chemotherapy at the same time. This compares with an average of about seven months for those treated only with radiation and almost 15 months for those receiving radiation before chemotherapy.
Wristbands May Lessen Nausea After Radiation
April 13, 2009
Small study finds acupressure cut symptoms beyond mere placebo effect. Acupressure wristbands might help cancer patients experience almost a 25 percent less nausea during radiation treatments, a new study says.
The finding, published in the Journal of Pain and Symptom Management, also discounted the common belief that such non-Western medical treatments act more as a placebo than an actual pain reliever.
"We know the placebo effect exists; the problem is that we don't know how to measure it very well," corresponding author Joseph A.
The finding, published in the Journal of Pain and Symptom Management, also discounted the common belief that such non-Western medical treatments act more as a placebo than an actual pain reliever.
"We know the placebo effect exists; the problem is that we don't know how to measure it very well," corresponding author Joseph A.
A Drop of Blood May Help Assess Cancer Therapy
April 13, 2009
Technique could one day quickly detect if treatment is working, study suggests. A specialized technique that can detect subtle changes in cancer cells contained in a drop of blood or a tiny piece of tissue may one day be used by doctors to better assess how cancers are responding to treatment, say U.S. researchers.
Race May Not Be Key in Cancer Disparities
April 13, 2009
Study finds differences drop or disappear when scale is reduced. Race and genetics may not be as big a factor in surviving certain cancers as long suspected, a new study finds.
Though racial disparities have been found in many studies, researchers say they are far less apparent when zeroing in on smaller populations or geographical areas, such as a neighborhood instead of a city.
A report in the May 15 issue of Cancer suggests that this means that modifiable factors .
Though racial disparities have been found in many studies, researchers say they are far less apparent when zeroing in on smaller populations or geographical areas, such as a neighborhood instead of a city.
A report in the May 15 issue of Cancer suggests that this means that modifiable factors .
Blacks Less Likely to Get Optimal Lung Cancer Treatment
April 13, 2009
Disparity in care is as wide today as it was in the early '90s, study says. Black patients with lung cancer are less likely than white patients to receive recommended chemotherapy and surgery, a new study finds.
Disparities in lung cancer treatments were as large in 2002 as they were back in the early 1990s, even though there have been efforts to decrease those inequalities in treatment, the study said.
"This study shows what most of the previous research has shown .
Disparities in lung cancer treatments were as large in 2002 as they were back in the early 1990s, even though there have been efforts to decrease those inequalities in treatment, the study said.
"This study shows what most of the previous research has shown .
Harmless Virus May Be Deadly to Breast Cancer
April 10, 2009
Reovirus seeks out and destroys tumor cells, researchers say. A common, harmless human virus can target and kill breast cancer stem cells, Canadian researchers report.
"We suspected that reovirus might be effective against cancer stem cells, because we have shown time and again how well it destroys regular cancer cells," Dr. Patrick Lee, a cancer researcher at Dalhousie Medical School in Halifax, Nova Scotia, said in a news release.
"We suspected that reovirus might be effective against cancer stem cells, because we have shown time and again how well it destroys regular cancer cells," Dr. Patrick Lee, a cancer researcher at Dalhousie Medical School in Halifax, Nova Scotia, said in a news release.
Stress Management Battles Prostate Cancer Anxiety
April 08, 2009
Brief counseling before, after surgery eases concern over side effects, study finds. Stress management counseling appears to benefit men who have all or part of their prostate removed (radical prostatectomy) to treat early-stage prostate cancer, says a U.S. study.
Common Industrial Chemicals May Not Boost Cancer Risk
April 08, 2009
Use of PFOA, PFOS as additives is already being phased out, experts note. Typical exposures to chemicals that are found in a wide range of products, and have been linked to cancer in animals, may not boost risks for a range of malignancies in humans, a new report finds.
The two chemicals, perfluorooctanoate and perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOA, PFOS) have for decades been ubiquitous in food packaging, pesticides, clothing, upholstery, carpets and personal care products. Earlier studies have found these chemicals in the blood of both people exposed to the chemicals at work and in the general public.
The two chemicals, perfluorooctanoate and perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOA, PFOS) have for decades been ubiquitous in food packaging, pesticides, clothing, upholstery, carpets and personal care products. Earlier studies have found these chemicals in the blood of both people exposed to the chemicals at work and in the general public.
New Prostate Cancer Drug May Hold Promise
April 07, 2009
Researchers apply for large-scale testing after 'very promising' early results. A new drug with a radically different way of attacking prostate cancer has done well in an initial trial and is ready for larger-scale testing, researchers report.
One standard treatment for the malignancy is to inhibit the activity of androgens, male hormones such as testosterone that help drive tumor growth. Existing anti-androgens try to "shut down the factory" that produces the hormones, but the new drug blocks the receptors for those androgens on the tumor cells, said Dr.
One standard treatment for the malignancy is to inhibit the activity of androgens, male hormones such as testosterone that help drive tumor growth. Existing anti-androgens try to "shut down the factory" that produces the hormones, but the new drug blocks the receptors for those androgens on the tumor cells, said Dr.
Single Cell May Produce Multiple Lung Cancer Tumors
April 07, 2009
Finding suggests biological and clinical management of these growths needs to be tailored. A single cancer cell can lead to multiple, anatomically distinct lung tumors, U.S. researchers say.
Colon Screenings Don't Follow Guidelines, Study Suggests
April 06, 2009
VA study shows elderly ill men getting same screenings as healthy folks Despite clear guidelines recommending that older people undergo a colonoscopy only if they expect to live at least four more years, a new study reveals that seriously ill elderly men in the United States are being screened for colon cancer on par with healthy people.
The finding specifically reflects the experiences of men seeking care from a U.S.
The finding specifically reflects the experiences of men seeking care from a U.S.
Yale Plans Closer Look at Exercise and Cancer
April 06, 2009
Studies will chart recovery of active women with breast or ovarian disease. A Yale professor has received $7 million in federal grants for two studies into whether exercise affects ovarian and breast cancer recovery.
The U.S.
The U.S.
Broccoli May Ward Off Serious Stomach Ailments
April 06, 2009
Results of small study hint at cancer-preventing ability, researcher says. Eating 2.5 ounces a day of broccoli sprouts appeared to reduce the risk of stomach ulcers and probably stomach cancer in a Japanese trial.
Gastric cancer thus joins a long list of malignancies for which studies have shown a reduced risk associated with a diet that contains broccoli .
Gastric cancer thus joins a long list of malignancies for which studies have shown a reduced risk associated with a diet that contains broccoli .
Daily Naps May Raise Older Women's Death Risk
April 02, 2009
Addressing where the drowsiness comes from may be the solution, researchers say. A daily nap may boost an elderly woman's risk of dying, a new study suggests.
In contradiction of numerous past studies that have found that napping may have health benefits, researchers from the California Pacific Medical Center Research Institute found that elderly white women who took a daily siesta were 44 percent more likely to die from any cause, 58 percent more prone to dying from heart problems, and nearly 60 percent more likely to die from non-cardiovascular or non-cancer causes.
The results .
In contradiction of numerous past studies that have found that napping may have health benefits, researchers from the California Pacific Medical Center Research Institute found that elderly white women who took a daily siesta were 44 percent more likely to die from any cause, 58 percent more prone to dying from heart problems, and nearly 60 percent more likely to die from non-cardiovascular or non-cancer causes.
The results .
Active Ingredient in Marijuana Kills Brain Cancer Cells
April 01, 2009
Experts say finding worth further study, but patients shouldn't light up just yet. New research out of Spain suggests that THC .
Gene Mutation Doubles Risk of Aggressive Colon Cancer in Blacks
April 01, 2009
Study found whites much less likely to have this variant A genetic mutation may explain why blacks are more likely than whites to have a more aggressive form of colorectal cancer, U.S. researchers report.
Afinitor Approved for Advanced Kidney Cancer
March 30, 2009
When cancer progresses despite other treatments The Novartis drug Afinitor (everolimus) has been approved to treat advanced kidney cancer in people whose cancer has progressed despite treatment with other therapies, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration said Monday.
Scientists Identify More Breast Cancer Genes
March 30, 2009
Findings should lead to deeper understanding of the disease, experts say. U.S. researchers say they've spotted new gene variations that could boost the risk of sporadic breast cancer.
AIDS Drug Slows Spread of Deadly Childhood Brain Cancer
March 26, 2009
Study finds it suppresses enzyme vital to tumor growth. A drug approved to combat AIDS may also help slow the spread of a deadly type of brain tumor that tends to attack children.
A study published in the current issue of the International Journal of Cancer reports that ABC (Abacavir) suppresses the enzyme telomerase. Telomerase activity appears to be essential for certain tumor survival and growth, such as medulloblastoma .
A study published in the current issue of the International Journal of Cancer reports that ABC (Abacavir) suppresses the enzyme telomerase. Telomerase activity appears to be essential for certain tumor survival and growth, such as medulloblastoma .
Gene Test May ID Younger Women at Risk for Melanoma
March 25, 2009
Variation found in more than 40% of females under 50 raises odds almost 4-fold. A genetic variation that's associated with a nearly fourfold increased risk of melanoma in women under the age of 50 has been identified by researchers at the New York University School of Medicine.
Identification of this variation in a gene called MDM2 could lead to a screening test to identify women at high risk for the deadly skin cancer.
If confirmed in further studies, the increased risk caused by the MDM2 variation "is higher than a lot of the other clinical factors that we know, such as blistering sunburns, freckling, and family history," study author Dr.
Identification of this variation in a gene called MDM2 could lead to a screening test to identify women at high risk for the deadly skin cancer.
If confirmed in further studies, the increased risk caused by the MDM2 variation "is higher than a lot of the other clinical factors that we know, such as blistering sunburns, freckling, and family history," study author Dr.
Black Women at Higher Risk for Aggressive Breast Tumors
March 25, 2009
Triple negative growths 3 times more likely regardless of age, weight, study finds. Black women are three times more likely than women of other races to develop aggressive breast cancer, a U.S. study finds.
Scientists ID New Biomarker for Prostate Cancer
March 25, 2009
Study finds cleaved galectin-3 may serve as treatment target against disease progression. A newly identified marker for prostate cancer progression may also offer a new target for treatment, University of Michigan researchers say.
Previous research has found that decreased levels of the marker galectin-3 are linked with neoplastic progression in prostate cancer. However, increased levels of galectin-3 are believed to be associated with tumorigenicity in a number of other tumor types.
Previous research has found that decreased levels of the marker galectin-3 are linked with neoplastic progression in prostate cancer. However, increased levels of galectin-3 are believed to be associated with tumorigenicity in a number of other tumor types.
HPV Data May Aid Vaccine's Effectiveness
March 24, 2009
Most cervical cancers arose from strains covered by the shot, study finds. The majority of invasive cervical cancers in New Mexico in the 1980s and 1990s contained DNA from human papillomavirus type 16 (HPV16) and HPV type 18 (HPV18), says a new study.
It also found that women diagnosed with HPV16- or HPV18-positive cancers were an average of five years younger than those diagnosed with cancers associated with other HPV types.
The HPV vaccine (Gardasil) protects against infections caused by HPV16 and HPV18, so the new findings may have implications for future cancer screening programs, the researchers said.
It also found that women diagnosed with HPV16- or HPV18-positive cancers were an average of five years younger than those diagnosed with cancers associated with other HPV types.
The HPV vaccine (Gardasil) protects against infections caused by HPV16 and HPV18, so the new findings may have implications for future cancer screening programs, the researchers said.
Catching Ovarian Cancer Early May Miss Aggressive Tumors
March 24, 2009
The finding casts the usefulness of screening into doubt, scientists say. Early-stage ovarian cancers may be slower growing and less likely to spread than the more aggressive forms typically found in advanced stages of the disease, researchers report.
The finding calls into question the effectiveness of ovarian cancer screening, the study authors say.
"Our study showed that the ovarian cancers currently detected at an early stage have gene expression profiles that correlate with favorable outcomes, rather than being representative of the entire spectrum of disease aggressiveness.
The finding calls into question the effectiveness of ovarian cancer screening, the study authors say.
"Our study showed that the ovarian cancers currently detected at an early stage have gene expression profiles that correlate with favorable outcomes, rather than being representative of the entire spectrum of disease aggressiveness.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids Guard Against Advanced Prostate Cancer
March 24, 2009
Even men genetically predisposed to disease benefit from eating fish, study finds. Omega-3 fatty acids could help protect men against advanced prostate cancer, researchers report.
Eating fish at least once a week may reduce the risk of developing advanced prostate cancer even if one is genetically predisposed to developing the disease, but more work is needed to see if the association is real, the researchers said.
"Eating a healthy diet that includes dark fish and other sources of long-chain omega-3 fatty acids may decrease risk of more advanced prostate cancer even if one has a cox-2 genetic predisposition to the disease," said lead researcher John S.
Eating fish at least once a week may reduce the risk of developing advanced prostate cancer even if one is genetically predisposed to developing the disease, but more work is needed to see if the association is real, the researchers said.
"Eating a healthy diet that includes dark fish and other sources of long-chain omega-3 fatty acids may decrease risk of more advanced prostate cancer even if one has a cox-2 genetic predisposition to the disease," said lead researcher John S.
Soy May Help Shield Asian-American Girls From Breast Cancer
March 24, 2009
Early consumption seems most beneficial, but needs further study, experts say. Asian-American women who consumed high amounts of soy during childhood appear to have reduced their risk for breast cancer, a U.S. National Cancer Institute study has found.
Flushing From Alcohol a Risk Factor for Esophageal Cancer
March 24, 2009
Recognizing the enzyme deficiency would save many lives, study suggests. People who experience facial flushing when they drink alcohol are much more likely to develop alcohol-related esophageal cancer, say American and Japanese experts.
Facial flushing, nausea and increased heart rate when drinking alcohol occurs in about a third of East Asians (Chinese, Japanese and Koreans), mainly due to an inherited deficiency in an enzyme called aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 (ALDH2). There is increasing evidence that people with this deficiency are at much higher risk for alcohol-related esophageal cancer (specifically squamous cell carcinoma) than people with fully active ALDH2, the experts wrote in an article in this week's issue of PLoS Medicine.
Facial flushing, nausea and increased heart rate when drinking alcohol occurs in about a third of East Asians (Chinese, Japanese and Koreans), mainly due to an inherited deficiency in an enzyme called aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 (ALDH2). There is increasing evidence that people with this deficiency are at much higher risk for alcohol-related esophageal cancer (specifically squamous cell carcinoma) than people with fully active ALDH2, the experts wrote in an article in this week's issue of PLoS Medicine.
Too Much Red Meat May Shorten Life Span
March 23, 2009
Major study finds an effect, but critics say meat offers important nutrients. Diets high in red meat and in processed meat shorten life span not just from cancer and heart disease but from Alzheimer's, stomach ulcers and an array of other conditions as well, a U.S. National Cancer Institute study has found.
Dogs Help in Hunt for New Cancer Drugs
March 23, 2009
Research with canines may one day lead to new therapies to benefit humans. Joe Bauer got the call on a Friday afternoon.
A 10-year-old bichon frise named Oscar had developed anal sac adenocarcinoma, a particularly virulent cancer in dogs, and had been given only three months, at best, to live. The dog's owners, from Milford, Mass.
A 10-year-old bichon frise named Oscar had developed anal sac adenocarcinoma, a particularly virulent cancer in dogs, and had been given only three months, at best, to live. The dog's owners, from Milford, Mass.
Gold Nanospheres Show Promise in 'Boiling' Out Cancer
March 23, 2009
Smaller than dust flecks, new therapy 'cooks' bad cells while leaving healthy ones alone. Researchers say that using microscopic gold particles that target melanoma cells and then "boil" them when exposed to certain lighting holds promise as a new treatment for the deadly skin cancer.
The treatment uses gold nanospheres guided directly to the melanoma cells by a special protein fragment called a peptide placed inside the nanosphere. Using a technique known as photoablation therapy (PAT), doctors expose the tumors to near infrared light, causing the nanospheres to heat up and destroy the cancer while leaving healthy tissue alone.
The treatment uses gold nanospheres guided directly to the melanoma cells by a special protein fragment called a peptide placed inside the nanosphere. Using a technique known as photoablation therapy (PAT), doctors expose the tumors to near infrared light, causing the nanospheres to heat up and destroy the cancer while leaving healthy tissue alone.
What to Expect From a Colonoscopy
March 22, 2009
While many patients are nervous, doctors say it isn't as scary as some believe. As part of Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, Americans are being urged to schedule a colonoscopy to check for this common and highly preventable type of cancer.
But many people are too nervous or scared to have the important screening test, which is recommended if you're age 50 or older or have a family history of colorectal cancer.
A colonoscopy isn't as scary as some people believe, says Dr.
But many people are too nervous or scared to have the important screening test, which is recommended if you're age 50 or older or have a family history of colorectal cancer.
A colonoscopy isn't as scary as some people believe, says Dr.
Combo Screening Doesn't Spot Early Ovarian Cancer
March 20, 2009
Even finding it early may not save lives, researchers say. A screening regimen that combines ultrasound and a blood test to detect CA125, a marker for ovarian cancer, fails to discover the cancer in its early stages and often results in unnecessary surgery, a new study shows.
This finding contrasts with another recent study that found that these same two tests did find early cancer. Taken together, experts say these studies highlight the need to find an effective screening method for this deadly cancer, which is often called the "silent killer.
This finding contrasts with another recent study that found that these same two tests did find early cancer. Taken together, experts say these studies highlight the need to find an effective screening method for this deadly cancer, which is often called the "silent killer.
PSA Testing
What Should Men Do?
March 19, 2009
Fallout from 2 studies, pro and con, has experts in a quandry. In the wake of yesterday's publication of two major studies on the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test to detect prostate cancer .
Gleevec Prevents Return of Intestinal Cancer, Study Confirms
March 19, 2009
Drug is shown to be most effective on larger tumors. Taking Gleevec after surgery to remove a gastrointestinal stromal tumor improves tumor-free survival, a U.S. study has confirmed.
Obesity Tied to Poor Pancreatic Cancer Surgery Outcomes
March 18, 2009
Study finds risk of disease recurrence, death nearly twice that of normal-weight patients. Obese pancreatic cancer patients are more likely than non-obese patients to have worse outcomes after surgery to treat their cancer, say U.S. researchers.
Progress Reported Against Gene Involved in Hepatitis C
March 18, 2009
Finding could lead to new treatments for the disease, researchers say. Nearly 100 genes that support replication of the hepatitis C virus (HCV) in the human body have been identified by Massachusetts General Hospital researchers.
They also found that blocking several of the genes suppressed replication of the virus.
"We may be a few years away from developing therapies based on these findings, but this study is a proof of principle that targeting host factors is a viable therapeutic strategy," Dr.
They also found that blocking several of the genes suppressed replication of the virus.
"We may be a few years away from developing therapies based on these findings, but this study is a proof of principle that targeting host factors is a viable therapeutic strategy," Dr.
2 Studies Conflict Over Value of Prostate Cancer Screening
March 18, 2009
Doctors acknowledge that the PSA test is a far from perfect tool. Two new studies offer conflicting views on the value of screening men with a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test to check for prostate cancer.
But at least one leading oncologist says this much seems to be clear: A younger man with a strong family history of prostate cancer should pay attention to a PSA test, while an older man with known medical problems can probably avoid the exam.
That assessment comes from Dr.
But at least one leading oncologist says this much seems to be clear: A younger man with a strong family history of prostate cancer should pay attention to a PSA test, while an older man with known medical problems can probably avoid the exam.
That assessment comes from Dr.
When Breast Cancer Recurs, Finding Pre-Symptoms Is Key
March 18, 2009
Early stage cancers are usually smaller and more contained, study finds. Early detection of second breast cancers can reduce the risk of death by as much as half, according to an international study.
The researchers looked at information on 1,044 women who were seen at a medical center in Florence, Italy, between 1980 and 2005 and who had developed a second breast cancer .
The researchers looked at information on 1,044 women who were seen at a medical center in Florence, Italy, between 1980 and 2005 and who had developed a second breast cancer .
Most Devout Most Likely to Fight Death to the End
March 17, 2009
Those with advanced cancer, strong faith more often wanted lifesaving measures, study finds. People with advanced cancer who turn to their religion to help them cope are more likely to use aggressive measures to prolong their lives at the end, new research shows.
Published in the March 18 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association, the study found that those who turn to their faith for comfort during their illness are significantly more likely to use intensive lifesaving measures, such as mechanical ventilation.
"In a large study of terminally ill cancer patients, we found that patients that rely more heavily on religion to cope are about three times as likely to get aggressive medical care in the last week of life," said study author Dr.
Published in the March 18 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association, the study found that those who turn to their faith for comfort during their illness are significantly more likely to use intensive lifesaving measures, such as mechanical ventilation.
"In a large study of terminally ill cancer patients, we found that patients that rely more heavily on religion to cope are about three times as likely to get aggressive medical care in the last week of life," said study author Dr.
'Watchful Waiting' Safe With Low-Risk Prostate Cancers
March 16, 2009
Study suggests close monitoring offers some men better quality of life. Refusing immediate treatment can be safe for men with low-risk prostate cancer if they're closely monitored, new research finds.
The multi-center study of American and Canadian patients was conducted between 1991 and 2007.
"When or if to treat men with low-risk prostate cancer has always been a challenging question that faces patients and urologists," study author Dr.
The multi-center study of American and Canadian patients was conducted between 1991 and 2007.
"When or if to treat men with low-risk prostate cancer has always been a challenging question that faces patients and urologists," study author Dr.
Cancer Drug May Offer New Hope for Lupus Patients
March 13, 2009
Small U.K. study says Rituxan could become 1st new drug for disease in 50 years. The cancer drug Rituxan may offer the first new treatment approved for lupus in 50 years, suggests a small study by U.K. researchers at Imperial College London.
Freezing Kidney Cancers Shows Promise
March 13, 2009
Study found noninvasive technique eradicated smaller tumors. Most kidney cancer tumors can be eradicated using a noninvasive freezing technique that eliminates the need for surgery, a pair of studies from Johns Hopkins Hospital suggests.
The findings have prompted the researchers to claim that the procedure, known as cryoablation, should be the new "gold standard" of treatment for kidney cancer .
The findings have prompted the researchers to claim that the procedure, known as cryoablation, should be the new "gold standard" of treatment for kidney cancer .
Younger Women With Breast Cancer Face Added Peril
March 13, 2009
Disease is more aggressive, requiring more radical treatments, study suggests. The risk of breast cancer re-occurring is greater in women younger than 35 than it is in older women, especially if they opt for less radical treatment for the disease, a new study says.
In analyzing treatment of 652 breast cancer patients over three decades, researchers from the University of Texas M.D.
In analyzing treatment of 652 breast cancer patients over three decades, researchers from the University of Texas M.D.
Freckles, Moles May Indicate Risk for Eye Cancer
March 12, 2009
Factors that lead to skin cancer make uveal melanoma more likely, too, study finds. People with moles and other features that put them at higher risk of skin cancer may also have an increased chance of developing melanoma of the eye, a new study says.
Canadian researchers found links between skin moles, freckles, moles on the iris and risk of uveal melanoma .
Canadian researchers found links between skin moles, freckles, moles on the iris and risk of uveal melanoma .
Pancreatic Drug Trial Halted on Promising Results
March 12, 2009
Sutent showed greater survival rates, Pfizer says. Drug maker Pfizer Inc. said Thursday that a late-stage clinical trial of its cancer drug Sutent has been stopped early, because it showed significant benefit for patients with a rare form of pancreatic cancer.
The phase 3 trial included patients with advanced pancreatic islet cell tumors, also known as pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors, the company said in a news release.
The phase 3 trial included patients with advanced pancreatic islet cell tumors, also known as pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors, the company said in a news release.
Genes May Decide Which Smokers Get Lung Disease
March 11, 2009
Certain DNA could encourage chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, research shows Genes may be the reason why one-quarter of smokers develop chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), while the rest aren't afflicted with the serious breathing problem, U.S. researchers conclude.
Combo of Tests Might Spot Ovarian Cancer Early
March 11, 2009
Preliminary findings offer hope against a silent killer. Used together, a blood test and an ultrasound scan may be effective in detecting ovarian cancer in its early and more curable stages, British researchers report.
The two-step detection method could become a new standard in the fight against this deadly and hard to spot malignancy, experts say.
"It appears to be an approach that may be workable," said Robert Smith, director of cancer screening at the American Cancer Society.
The two-step detection method could become a new standard in the fight against this deadly and hard to spot malignancy, experts say.
"It appears to be an approach that may be workable," said Robert Smith, director of cancer screening at the American Cancer Society.
Folic Acid Supplements Raise Prostate Cancer Risk
March 10, 2009
But 10-year study also showed having enough folate in diet might offer protection. A 10-year study has found that men who took folic acid supplements faced more than twice the risk of prostate cancer as those who didn't take the supplements.
But the incidence of prostate cancer in the study was slightly lower in men who simply got adequate amounts of folate in their diet, according to a report in the March 10 online issue of the Journal of the National Cancer Institute.
"What we think is that perhaps too much folate is not necessarily beneficial, whereas adequate levels may be," said study leader Jan Figueiredo, an assistant professor of preventive medicine at the University of Southern California.
But the incidence of prostate cancer in the study was slightly lower in men who simply got adequate amounts of folate in their diet, according to a report in the March 10 online issue of the Journal of the National Cancer Institute.
"What we think is that perhaps too much folate is not necessarily beneficial, whereas adequate levels may be," said study leader Jan Figueiredo, an assistant professor of preventive medicine at the University of Southern California.
Study Links Blood Type and Pancreatic Cancer
March 10, 2009
Findings shed light on gene serving as marker for others involved in tumor development.- People with type O blood have a much lower risk of developing pancreatic cancer, a finding that might help explain the origins of the often fatal disease.
The study, by researchers at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston, confirms a previously suggested tie between blood type and the disease, which is diagnosed in about 40,000 people each year in the United States.
The study found that the chances of developing pancreatic cancer were greater for people with a blood type other than O: 32 percent higher for those with type A blood, 51 percent greater for type AB and 72 percent higher for type B .
The study, by researchers at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston, confirms a previously suggested tie between blood type and the disease, which is diagnosed in about 40,000 people each year in the United States.
The study found that the chances of developing pancreatic cancer were greater for people with a blood type other than O: 32 percent higher for those with type A blood, 51 percent greater for type AB and 72 percent higher for type B .
'Male Lumpectomy' May Help Some With Prostate Cancer
March 10, 2009
Procedure involves freezing tumor rather than removing entire gland. A new procedure for prostate cancer that destroys only the part of the gland that is cancerous results in fewer side effects than surgery or radiation therapy, a new study finds.
The so-called "male lumpectomy" is a minimally invasive procedure that freezes part of the prostate. The study suggests that it might prove especially beneficial for men who have local prostate cancer or those for whom radiation has not worked.
The so-called "male lumpectomy" is a minimally invasive procedure that freezes part of the prostate. The study suggests that it might prove especially beneficial for men who have local prostate cancer or those for whom radiation has not worked.
Dying Feel Abandoned by Docs in the End
March 09, 2009
Continuity of care, closure important for dying, families and docs, study finds. When there's no more that can be done for terminally ill patients, and the focus of care turns to keeping them comfortable before death, many feel as if their doctors have abandoned them, new research finds.
But for doctors, the dying and their families, continuing care is helpful for all concerned, and it helps provide a sense of closure for the family and for the doctor.
"The therapeutic part of the doctor-patient relationship extends to the end-of-life, and it's even more important then to honor that relationship," said study author Dr.
But for doctors, the dying and their families, continuing care is helpful for all concerned, and it helps provide a sense of closure for the family and for the doctor.
"The therapeutic part of the doctor-patient relationship extends to the end-of-life, and it's even more important then to honor that relationship," said study author Dr.
DNA Variations May Alter Risk of Hodgkin's Disease
March 09, 2009
Proteins that repair genetic damage are focus of new research. The chances of developing Hodgkin's disease could be up to four times greater for people with certain variations in genes that repair DNA, a new study shows.
Researchers at the University of Texas M.D.
Researchers at the University of Texas M.D.
Wine Color Won't Change Breast Cancer Risk
March 09, 2009
Despite red wine's healthy reputation, study finds it won't lower cancer odds. Although moderate consumption of red wine may offer some benefit for your heart, it won't help decrease the risk of breast cancer in women, new research suggests.
"If you choose to drink at all, choose your drink based upon what tastes good to you, because wine is not associated with a decreased risk of breast cancer, regardless of the type," said study author Polly Newcomb, program head of cancer prevention at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle.
The findings were published in the March issue of Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention.
"If you choose to drink at all, choose your drink based upon what tastes good to you, because wine is not associated with a decreased risk of breast cancer, regardless of the type," said study author Polly Newcomb, program head of cancer prevention at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle.
The findings were published in the March issue of Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention.
Technique Might Prevent Some Bladder Removals
March 09, 2009
Method helps doctors better distinguish cancer types, researcher says. A new technique that more accurately determines the stage of bladder cancer could help reduce the number of bladder removals, a new study says.
U.S.
U.S.
Combo Treatment for Aggressive Brain Tumor May Lengthen Life
March 09, 2009
Study finds longer-term survival benefit with chemo and radiation. Treatment with a combination of the chemotherapy drug temozolomide and radiotherapy increases survival for glioblastoma brain tumor patients better than radiotherapy alone, and the improvement persists for up to five years, say Swiss researchers.
Glioblastoma is the most common and aggressive form of primary brain tumor. For more than three decades, surgery followed by radiotherapy was the standard treatment for glioblastoma, but the average life expectancy was just nine to 12 months.
Glioblastoma is the most common and aggressive form of primary brain tumor. For more than three decades, surgery followed by radiotherapy was the standard treatment for glioblastoma, but the average life expectancy was just nine to 12 months.
Bone Cement Eases Pain of Late-Stage Cancers
March 09, 2009
Italian researchers report bedridden patients walked 24 hours after treatment. Injecting "bone cement" into lesions in patients whose cancer has spread to their bones can literally allow these individuals to rise from their deathbeds and live the remainder of their lives relatively pain-free.
Italian researchers presenting these findings Monday at the Society of Interventional Radiology annual meeting in San Diego called it the "Lazarus Effect," referring to when Jesus miraculously raised Lazarus from the dead.
"The majority of treated patients experienced significant or complete and long-lasting pain relief after osteoplasty with immediate improvement of clinical conditions and quality of life," said study author Dr.
Italian researchers presenting these findings Monday at the Society of Interventional Radiology annual meeting in San Diego called it the "Lazarus Effect," referring to when Jesus miraculously raised Lazarus from the dead.
"The majority of treated patients experienced significant or complete and long-lasting pain relief after osteoplasty with immediate improvement of clinical conditions and quality of life," said study author Dr.
Drug Could Make Melanoma More Vulnerable to Chemo
March 06, 2009
Compound disabled protein fueling tumor growth, making therapy more effective. A compound that targets and disables a protein found in melanoma tumors may make the deadly skin cancer more vulnerable to chemotherapy, early results of a pilot study show.
Sixteen patients with advanced melanoma on an extremity (feet, hands, etc.) were given the compound ADH-1 intravenously and then underwent chemotherapy by infusion in the affected limb.
Sixteen patients with advanced melanoma on an extremity (feet, hands, etc.) were given the compound ADH-1 intravenously and then underwent chemotherapy by infusion in the affected limb.
Health Tip
Caring for Mouth Sores From Cancer Treatment
March 06, 2009
What you can do Chemotherapy or radiation treatment for cancer can lead to small, painful mouth sores.
The American Cancer Society offers these suggestions to help ease the pain and make it easier to eat:
Since brushing teeth can be painful, switch to a softer brush. And soften it with hot water before you brush.
The American Cancer Society offers these suggestions to help ease the pain and make it easier to eat:
Since brushing teeth can be painful, switch to a softer brush. And soften it with hot water before you brush.
Rectal Cancer Outcomes Best With Short-Course Radiation
March 06, 2009
Even with latest surgical techniques, therapy should come first, studies suggest. For people with operable rectal cancer, the most effective treatment is a short course of radiation therapy followed by "high-quality surgery," according to a new study.
Surgery is the standard treatment for rectal cancer, but just removing the tumor leaves a risk of cancer recurrence in the same area, according to background information. Previous research has shown that radiotherapy and chemotherapy after surgery can reduce the risk of recurrence.
Surgery is the standard treatment for rectal cancer, but just removing the tumor leaves a risk of cancer recurrence in the same area, according to background information. Previous research has shown that radiotherapy and chemotherapy after surgery can reduce the risk of recurrence.
Drugs From Vegetables May Target Melanoma Tumors
March 05, 2009
Extracts of broccoli, cabbage block protein in disease spread, study says. A drug based on compounds extracted from cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli and cabbage could offer a potent and safe treatment against melanoma, Penn State College of Medicine researchers say.
In mice, a combination of these vegetable compounds (called isothiocyanates) and selenium slowed production and blocked the signaling network of a protein called Akt3 .
In mice, a combination of these vegetable compounds (called isothiocyanates) and selenium slowed production and blocked the signaling network of a protein called Akt3 .
Wine May Be Protective Against Esophageal Cancer
March 02, 2009
One glass a day may lower risk for Barrett's, a precursor to disease, study finds. Drinking a glass of wine a day may lower the risk of Barrett's esophagus, a condition that precedes esophageal cancer.
Barrett's esophagus, which affects about 5 percent of the population, occurs when heartburn or acid reflux permanently damages the lining of the esophagus. People with this condition are 30 to 40 times more likely to develop a type of esophageal cancer called esophageal adenocarcinoma.
Barrett's esophagus, which affects about 5 percent of the population, occurs when heartburn or acid reflux permanently damages the lining of the esophagus. People with this condition are 30 to 40 times more likely to develop a type of esophageal cancer called esophageal adenocarcinoma.
New Test May Mean Faster Breast Cancer Treatment
February 27, 2009
Genetic analysis method can be used on all women with diagnosis, study says. A new genetic test that analyzes a set of 50 genes to identify four types of breast cancer could lead to quicker, more immediate treatment for patients, according to U.S. researchers who developed the test.
Men With BRCA Gene Mutations Unaware of Cancer Risks
February 27, 2009
They need to be more aware of the threats to themselves and relatives, study says. Men who are part of families in which some members have BRCA1 or 2 gene mutations .
Caffeine May Offer Some Skin Cancer Protection
February 26, 2009
It might one day be used as an ingredient in sunscreen, researchers say. Past studies have suggested that caffeine might offer some protection from skin cancer, and new research may explain why.
"We have found what we believe to be the mechanism by which caffeine is associated with decreased skin cancer," said lead researcher Dr. Paul Nghiem, an associate professor of dermatology at the University of Washington in Seattle.
"We have found what we believe to be the mechanism by which caffeine is associated with decreased skin cancer," said lead researcher Dr. Paul Nghiem, an associate professor of dermatology at the University of Washington in Seattle.
Yoga May Bring Calm to Breast Cancer Treatment
February 26, 2009
Women reported less stress, more peace after sessions, study finds. Yoga can improve the emotional health of breast cancer patients, contends a new U.S. study.
Tests Might Diagnose, Predict Prostate Cancer
February 25, 2009
One measures genes in urine, another combines PSA and other risk factors. One study suggests that a simple urine test could pick out 50 percent of men with prostate cancer. Another study says that combining risk factors for prostate cancer may help predict the likelihood of developing the disease.
Both studies were presented Tuesday at the 2009 Genitourinary Cancers Symposium in Orlando, Fla.
Both studies were presented Tuesday at the 2009 Genitourinary Cancers Symposium in Orlando, Fla.
Drinking Raises Cancer Risk for Middle-Age Women
February 24, 2009
Even one drink a day poses danger, large study finds. on the order of one alcoholic drink per day .
Waiting Is the Hardest Part in Biopsies
February 24, 2009
Study finds stress hormone levels abnormal among women waiting for breast biopsy results. What has been intuitively obvious to women for eons now has "real" scientific backing.
Women who are waiting for results after a breast biopsy experience abnormalities in the levels of a stress hormone known as cortisol, a fact that might not only be damaging to overall health but might compromise future treatment if, in fact, the results come back positive.
The findings, appearing in the March issue of Radiology, argue for faster relaying of results to patients.
Women who are waiting for results after a breast biopsy experience abnormalities in the levels of a stress hormone known as cortisol, a fact that might not only be damaging to overall health but might compromise future treatment if, in fact, the results come back positive.
The findings, appearing in the March issue of Radiology, argue for faster relaying of results to patients.
Media Influences Cancer Care
February 23, 2009
Patients who search Web, other media more likely to get newer treatments, study finds. Cancer patients who research their disease on the Internet and in other media are more likely to get the latest treatments from their doctors, a new study suggests.
Although studies have found that about 40 percent of cancer patients look to the Internet for medical information, it hasn't been clear just how that information influences their choice of treatments, the researchers noted.
"We looked at how colon cancer patients used health information to try to make decisions about things related to their treatment," said lead researcher Dr.
Although studies have found that about 40 percent of cancer patients look to the Internet for medical information, it hasn't been clear just how that information influences their choice of treatments, the researchers noted.
"We looked at how colon cancer patients used health information to try to make decisions about things related to their treatment," said lead researcher Dr.
Stress May Speed Melanoma Progression
February 19, 2009
But certain heart drugs may help counter the effect, researchers say. Stress appears to hasten the progression of aggressive or advanced melanoma skin cancer, but commonly prescribed blood pressure drugs may slow the disease and improve the quality of patients' lives, according to an Ohio State University study.
In laboratory tests, the researchers exposed samples of three melanoma cell lines to the stress hormone norepinephrine and looked for changes in the levels of certain proteins released by the cells: vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), which stimulates the growth of new blood vessels to feed a growing tumor; and interleukin-6 (IL-6) and interleukin-8 (IL-8), which play a role in tumor growth.
When exposed to norepinephrine, all three melanoma cell lines increased production of the three proteins.
In laboratory tests, the researchers exposed samples of three melanoma cell lines to the stress hormone norepinephrine and looked for changes in the levels of certain proteins released by the cells: vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), which stimulates the growth of new blood vessels to feed a growing tumor; and interleukin-6 (IL-6) and interleukin-8 (IL-8), which play a role in tumor growth.
When exposed to norepinephrine, all three melanoma cell lines increased production of the three proteins.
Obesity, Lack of Insurance Take Toll on Young Americans
February 19, 2009
CDC annual report on nation's health focuses on those aged 18 to 29. Increased rates of obesity and lack of insurance coverage are among the many health challenges facing young American adults, according to just-released statistics.
A special section on young adults between the ages of 18 and 29 is featured in the annual report on the nation's health from the U.S.
A special section on young adults between the ages of 18 and 29 is featured in the annual report on the nation's health from the U.S.
Sunken, Unexploded Bombs Pose Cancer Risk
February 18, 2009
Munitions in water off Puerto Rico transfer toxins into seafood, scientist says. Unexploded bombs in the oceans leak cancer-causing toxins that are absorbed by marine life and may be transferred to humans who eat seafood, one ecologist warns.
"Unexploded bombs are in the ocean for a variety of reasons .
"Unexploded bombs are in the ocean for a variety of reasons .
Genetic Mutations Linked to Deadly Brain Cancer
February 18, 2009
Tests could one day individualize treatment, researcher says. Researchers report that they've discovered two genetic mutations that play an important role in the development of some particularly dangerous types of brain tumors.
The findings "open a completely new avenue" to better treatments for one of the most deadly forms of cancer, said Dr. Hai Yan, lead author of a study published in the Feb.
The findings "open a completely new avenue" to better treatments for one of the most deadly forms of cancer, said Dr. Hai Yan, lead author of a study published in the Feb.
Cancer Death Rates Decline Among Blacks, But Disparities Linger
February 18, 2009
Diagnosis still comes later than for whites and survival is poorer, new report finds. Black Americans' cancer death rates continue to decline, an American Cancer Society report released Wednesday.
However, they are still diagnosed at more advanced stages of cancer than whites, the report's authors note, and blacks have lower survival rates at each stage of diagnosis of most types of cancers.
There will be about 150,090 new cases of invasive cancer diagnosed in U.
However, they are still diagnosed at more advanced stages of cancer than whites, the report's authors note, and blacks have lower survival rates at each stage of diagnosis of most types of cancers.
There will be about 150,090 new cases of invasive cancer diagnosed in U.
One in Three Cancer Survivors on Unemployment Line
February 17, 2009
Lingering physical effects of cancer a likely cause, study finds. As if fighting cancer wasn't hard enough, a new Dutch study concludes that one in three people who survive the ordeal won't be able to find a job.
The meta-analysis of more than 20,000 cancer survivors found that 33.8 percent of those who'd battled cancer were out of work vs.
The meta-analysis of more than 20,000 cancer survivors found that 33.8 percent of those who'd battled cancer were out of work vs.
Gene Test May Help Predict Colon Cancer's Return
February 17, 2009
A marker in lymph nodes points to more persistent tumors, scientists say. A genetic test may better help survivors of colorectal cancer determine their risk of recurrence, a new study finds.
A report in the Feb. 18 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association finds that guanylyl cyclase C (GUCY2C) .
A report in the Feb. 18 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association finds that guanylyl cyclase C (GUCY2C) .
Doctors' Guide to Cancer Drugs May Need Revising
February 17, 2009
Physicians often rely on outdated data when making 'off-label' decisions, study says. Doctors may not always have complete or clear information when they prescribe cancer medications for uses beyond what the drugs have been approved for, a new study finds.
According to the report, published in the Feb. 17 online issue of Annals of Internal Medicine, the online and hard-copy resource used by oncologists and pharmacists, known as the compendia, does not always contain clear or updated information on using medications for "off-label" purposes, such as treating diseases other than those approved by the U.
According to the report, published in the Feb. 17 online issue of Annals of Internal Medicine, the online and hard-copy resource used by oncologists and pharmacists, known as the compendia, does not always contain clear or updated information on using medications for "off-label" purposes, such as treating diseases other than those approved by the U.
Family History of Melanoma Doubles Parkinson's Risk
February 16, 2009
Linkage between the two might be genetic, researchers say. People with a family history of melanoma are twice as likely to develop Parkinson's disease, a new study finds.
While the reasons for this association are not clear, other studies have shown that people with Parkinson's diseases are at greater risk for developing melanoma.
"For people with a family member with melanoma, they may be at risk for Parkinson's disease," said lead researcher Dr.
While the reasons for this association are not clear, other studies have shown that people with Parkinson's diseases are at greater risk for developing melanoma.
"For people with a family member with melanoma, they may be at risk for Parkinson's disease," said lead researcher Dr.
Hodgkin's Survivors Prone to Breast Cancer Later
February 16, 2009
Study found they were 37 times more likely to develop malignancies after radiation treatments. In an ironic testament to the success of childhood cancer treatments, researchers report that women who were treated as children with radiation for Hodgkin's disease were almost 40 times more likely to develop breast cancer later in life.
"We can cure most patients now who have Hodgkin's disease. Back in 1950, it was regarded as a universally fatal disease," said study co-author Dr.
"We can cure most patients now who have Hodgkin's disease. Back in 1950, it was regarded as a universally fatal disease," said study co-author Dr.
Experts Release Guidelines on Use of Breast MRI
February 16, 2009
The technology can supplement, but not replace, standard screening, they say..
Immune Cells Shrink Tumors in Mice
February 13, 2009
They target a protein found in some cancers, study finds. Scientists say certain tumors in mice have shrunk or disappeared after the animals were injected with genetically engineered immune system cells that target a protein found in certain human cancers.
The lab-altered T-cells zeroed in on mesothelin, a still mysterious protein produced in abundance by all pancreatic cancers and mesotheliomas, as well as many ovarian and non-small-cell lung cancers. The protein is believed to play a role in the spread and growth of cancer cells, a theory backed by past animal and human studies that found attacking mesothelin can shrink tumors.
The lab-altered T-cells zeroed in on mesothelin, a still mysterious protein produced in abundance by all pancreatic cancers and mesotheliomas, as well as many ovarian and non-small-cell lung cancers. The protein is believed to play a role in the spread and growth of cancer cells, a theory backed by past animal and human studies that found attacking mesothelin can shrink tumors.
Researchers ID Biomarker for Fatal Prostate Cancer
February 13, 2009
Men with highest ionized serum calcium 3 times more likely to die, study finds. A newly identified biomarker for fatal prostate cancer may help guide men trying to decide whether or not to undergo treatment for the disease.
Men whose levels of ionized serum calcium are in the highest third are three times more likely to die of prostate cancer than those with the lowest levels, said researchers at Wake Forest University School of Medicine and the University of Wisconsin. They also confirmed a previous finding that men with the highest levels of total serum calcium are twice as likely to develop fatal prostate cancer.
Men whose levels of ionized serum calcium are in the highest third are three times more likely to die of prostate cancer than those with the lowest levels, said researchers at Wake Forest University School of Medicine and the University of Wisconsin. They also confirmed a previous finding that men with the highest levels of total serum calcium are twice as likely to develop fatal prostate cancer.
Chocolate for Your Valentine a Healthy Idea
February 13, 2009
Expert says the dark kind protects against cancer, along with being sweet. Giving dark chocolate to your Valentine might be more than sweet; it could help guard your true love against cancer.
"The great news this Valentine's Day is that in addition to being decadent and delicious, moderate amounts of dark chocolate may play a role in cancer prevention," Sally Scroggs, a health education manager at the University of Texas M.D.
"The great news this Valentine's Day is that in addition to being decadent and delicious, moderate amounts of dark chocolate may play a role in cancer prevention," Sally Scroggs, a health education manager at the University of Texas M.D.
Drug Inhibits Colon Cancer in Mice
February 12, 2009
Treated with enzastaurin, even tumors that did develop weren't as advanced, study finds. A drug called enzastaurin significantly reduced the development of colon cancer in mice, and tumors that did develop were less advanced and aggressive than those in mice that didn't receive the drug, according to a study by researchers at the Mayo Clinic in Florida.
The findings, coupled with the fact that the drug appears to have minimal side effects, suggest that enzastaurin might offer an effective chemopreventive treatment in people at high risk for colon cancer, the researchers said. The study is to be published in the Feb.
The findings, coupled with the fact that the drug appears to have minimal side effects, suggest that enzastaurin might offer an effective chemopreventive treatment in people at high risk for colon cancer, the researchers said. The study is to be published in the Feb.
Promise of Cash Prompts Smokers to Quit
February 11, 2009
Financial incentives tripled rates of cessation, study found. Offering hard, cold cash to smokers to spur them to stop their unhealthy habit helps more people give up cigarettes, new research finds.
The study, published in the Feb. 12 issue of the New England Journal of Medicine, included a large group of General Electric Co.
The study, published in the Feb. 12 issue of the New England Journal of Medicine, included a large group of General Electric Co.
Signs of Leukemia Show Up Years Before Diagnosis
February 11, 2009
Study suggests abnormal blood cells hold clues to start of chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Abnormal blood cells can appear in the blood years before a person is diagnosed with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CCL), U.S. researchers say.
Urine Test May One Day Predict Prostate Cancer
February 11, 2009
Lab results identify component linked to aggressiveness of disease. A simple urine test that identifies small molecules, called metabolites, that are associated with prostate cancer might someday be able to identify men who have a fast-moving, aggressive form of the disease, University of Michigan researchers report.
They say such a test could help identify those who need aggressive treatment and might one day lead to the development of new therapies.
"There are metabolites that might be useful in predicting aggressiveness of prostate cancer," said lead researcher Dr.
They say such a test could help identify those who need aggressive treatment and might one day lead to the development of new therapies.
"There are metabolites that might be useful in predicting aggressiveness of prostate cancer," said lead researcher Dr.
Levels of Circulating Tumor Cells Could Predict Prostate Cancer Outcome
February 11, 2009
New method of tracking changes proves better predictor than PSA, study says. Checking for changes in the number of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) could help doctors predict advanced prostate cancer patients' survival and response to treatment, U.S. researchers report.
