rectal cancer biorepository

U.S. researchers have created a biorepository of "65 patient-derived rectal cancer organoid cultures from patients with primary, metastatic, or recurrent disease."  According to study authors, patients respond different to chemoradiotherapy treatment regimens and may require additional extensive surgery.  The establishment of the biorepository thus creates the opportunity to study rectal cancer more closely on a molecular level.  It is believed that continued enhancements of this methodology will lead to drug screen in a pre-clinical setting lead to more effective, targeted treatments.

To read more about this study, click here.

News release: Young Adult Cancer Cancer first-of-its-kind study

Young Adult Cancer Canada (YACC) has released early data from their Young Adults With Cancer in their Prime (YAC Prime) study, a report discussing the "impact and intensity of issues facing young adults with cancer."  Results from a survey conducted on 622 young adults highlighted quality of life (physical, social, emotional), as well as financial hardship when faced with diagnosed with cancer.  Findings show that 49% of patients in this age group missed from 1-4 years of work, with 84% experiencing significant levels of fear of cancer recurrence.

To read more about this report, which was presented at the International Psycho-Oncology Society (IPOS) Symposium (September 23-26, 2019) in Banff, click here.

New trial alert: Evaluating optimal timing of endocrine therapy and radiation therapy in early-stage breast cancer (REaCT-RETT)

The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute is presently recruiting early-stage breast cancer patients in a new trial evaluating concurrent vs. sequential endocrine therapy in conjunction with post-operative radiation therapy.  Outcomes of the phase 4 trial are endocrine toxicity, radiotherapy toxicity, rates of starting endocrine therapy and compliance, and cost-effectiveness ratios.


Click here for more information regarding this trial.