Blog posts will resume in January 2018 - Happy Holidays

To all Grey Horizon readers:

Thank you for supporting our blog these past 5 years.  Postings will resume in January 2018.

Thank you and Happy Holidays!

Electric cap device offers hope to glioblastoma patients

A recent CTV news report introduced an electric cap-like device for patients with glioblastoma, an aggressive brain cancer with a 5-year survival rate of only 5%.  Known as Optune, the device, which is worn by patients 18 hours per day, "emits a low-intensity electromagnetic field to stop or slow cancer cells from dividing."  Regular use of the device has increased life expectancy by 4 months, however it has also increased the survival rate after 5 years to 13%.

To read more about this news story, click here.

Cancer survivors often age prematurely

Mayo Clinic researchers have recently conducted a study indicating that cancer survivors are often susceptible to premature aging following treatment.  Long-term health problems include "hormone and gland disorders, heart problems, brittle bones, lung scarring, and new cancers."

To read more about this study, click here.

New cancer drug shows promise against wide range of tumors

A preliminary trial, conducted at Massachusetts General Hospital is showing promise against many different tumor types.  Known as ulixertinib, the drug was administered to 135 cancer patients who had failed treatments for a variety of advanced, solid tumors.  According to the trial, ulixertinib "inhibits the MAPK/ERK pathway...a chain of proteins in the cell that communicates a signal from a receptor on the surface of the cell to the DNA in the nucleus of the cell."

To read more about this trial, click here

Prior cancers common in patients newly diagnosed with cancer

A new study conducted at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas indicates that between 2009 and 2013, nearly 20% of patients newly diagnosed with cancer had a previous history of cancer diagnosis.  According to lead author Dr. Caitlyn Murphy, "some types of second primary cancer - such as leukemia - can be related to chemotherapy or radiation therapy used to treat a prior cancer", necessitating that clinicians be aware of these possible links when caring for cancer survivors.

To read more about this study, click here.

New trial alert: Ipatasertib in combination with Paclitaxel as a treatment for patients with PIK3CA/AKT1/PTEN-altered, locally advanced or metastatic, triple-negative breast cancer

A new clinical trial, being conducted at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre in Toronto, is seeking to evaluate the efficiency of ipatasertib + paclitaxel in patients with locally advanced or metastatic triple-negative breast cancer. The primary outcome of this investigation is progression-free survival, while secondary outcomes include health status, health-related quality of life, incidence and severity of adverse events, and changes in vital signs. This trial is currently in pending status, with an anticipated December 2017 start date.

To read more about this trial, click here.

Acupuncture may ease pain tied to breast cancer care

New research conducted at the Breast Cancer Program, Presbyterian/Columbia University Medical Center in New York City indicates that acupuncture may ease joint pain, a common side effect of breast cancer medications. According to Dr. Lauren Cassell, chief of breast surgery at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York, "if something so simple as acupuncture can improve...symptoms and the patients' quality of life, we will have more women becoming compliant in taking their medication."

To read more about this research, click here. 

Gum disease tied to esophageal cancer

A new study conducted at NYU Langone Health in New York City has drawn a correlation between gun disease bacteria and the risk of developing esophageal cancer.  The study, conducted on 122,000 Americans who's oral health was observed over a period of 10 years found that "the presence of one oral bacterium in particular, Tannerella forsythia...led to a 21% increase in the odds of developing esophageal tumors."  This find noted emphasized the importance of regularly brushing, flossing, and dental visits.

To read more about this study, click here.

6% of cancers caused by excess weight and diabetes

A new report conducted at Imperial College in London indicates that excess weight and diabetes is a direct cause of 6% of cancers worldwide.  According to lead author Dr. Jonathan Pearson-Stuttard, the report analyzed health data from 175 countries, concluding that "5.6% of new cancers care..were caused by high body mass index (BMI) and diabetes."

To read more about the report, click here.

Cancer survivors can develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

New research conducted at the National University of Malaysia indicates that the trauma endured by cancer survivors can lead them to develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).  According to lead researcher Caryn Mai Hsien Chan, the study, conducted on 469 adults with different types of cancer, "showed that nearly 22% had symptoms of PTSD six months after their cancer diagnosis...6% still had the condition four years after diagnosis." 

To read more about this study, click here.

University of Calgary receives additional funding from Canadian Institutes of Health Research for cancer care

The University of Calgary has received a portion of a $5.7 million grant from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) to study and develop better cancer care.  According to the news release, Dr. Jessica E. Simon will "lead a team...to study how community-based palliative care can help patients with non-curable colorectal cancer and demonstrate the effectiveness early care has."

To read more about this funding, click here.

Low-fat diet may reduce pancreatic cancer risk for older overweight women

A new study conducted at the Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas suggests that a low-fat diet may reduce risk of pancreatic cancer among women between 50-79 that are overweight or obese. According to the study's first author, Dr. Li Jiao, 46,000 overweight and obese women were part of a clinical trial held between 1993-1998.  After 15 years of follow-up, 92 cases of pancreatic cancer occurred following a low-fat diet, compared to 165 cases in the comparison group.

To read more about this study, click here.

Blood thinner may lower cancer risk

New research being conducted at the University of Bergen in Norway indicates that Warfarin, a commonly prescribed blood thinner may lower the risk of developing cancer.  While lead researcher James Lorens cautioned that the observational study, conducted on 1.25 million Norwegian people aged 50 and older, does not "prove a cause and effect relationship...[that] warfarin reduced the risk of cancer", cancer models have determined that warfarin blocks the AXL receptor on tumor cells.

To read more about this report, click here.

 

Some heartburn medication may be linked to stomach cancer

A new study from the University of Hong Kong indicates tat regular prolonged use of certain heartburn medications, known as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) may increase the risk of stomach cancer.  According to lead researcher Dr. Wai Keung Leung, "while PPIs are one of the most commonly used medications for treating reflex disease...clinicians should exercise caution when prescribing long-term PPIs..."

To read more about this study, click here.

Should colon cancer screening began at an earlier age?

A new French study from the Clinique de Bercy in Charenton-le-Pont, has proposed that earlier screening (i.e. at age 45 instead of age 50) be undertaken for colon cancer.  The study, conducted on 6,000 patients who had a colonoscopy, determined that "among 45-49 year-old patients, 26% showed growth called adenomas...compared to 13% of patients ages 40 to 44."  Lead researcher Dr. David Karsenti, who presented the findings at the October 30th United European Gastroenterology Meeting in Barcelona, Spain feels that delaying screening until age 50 could limit some patients' odds of surviving a colon cancer diagnosis.

To read more about this study, click here.

Gene therapy may prevent brain cancer recurrence

 A new phase I clinical trial conducted at the University of Minnesota Medical School  indicates that gene therapy treatment may prevent the recurrence of brain cancer cancer.  The trial, conducted on 56 patients with recurrent high-grade glioma brain cancer shows that "3 years after the gene therapy treatment, more than a quarter of the patients were still alive."  Median survival time for patients was raised to 14.4 months, compared to 8 months for patients without the gene therapy.

Click here to read more about this trial, results of which were presented on Friday, October 27th at the International Conference on Molecular Targets and Cancer Therapeutics in Philadelphia.

new trial alert: Walk on: a community-based approach to promote participation in physical activity among men treated for colorectal cancer

The Wellness Beyond Cancer Program at the Ottawa Hospital is recruiting men 18 years or older, diagnosed with colorectal cancer and having completed treatment, to participate in a clinical trial.  The primary purpose of the trial is to determine if a "men's group-based walking program [could be] an effective way to reach men and promote quality of life after cancer treatment."

To read more about this trial, click here.

Artificial intelligence as a possible partner in breast cancer care

New research conducted at the Massachusetts General Hospital suggests that artificial intelligence can help doctors identify high-risk breast lesions that could manifest into cancer. According to study author Dr. Manisha Bahi, the machine learning test involved 1,000 women with high-risk breast lesions, identifying 37 of 38 lesions correctly. 

To read more about this study, click here.

How breast cancer gene mutations raise risk of tumours

Researchers at the Yale Cancer Center claim to have identified the molecular mechanism that enables the mutation to cause the BRCA1 gene to lose its DNA repair and tumour-fighting power" and thus trigger breast cancer.  According to Patrick Sung, study senior author, results from these findings could lead to more effective drugs to treat breast and ovarian cancers.

To read more about this study, click here.

Rituxan may prolong survival of patients with lymphoma

A new clinical trial conducted at Nantes Medical University in France has found that Rituxan (rituximab) can prolong the life of lymphoma patients.  The trial, conducted on 299 patients younger than 66 when first diagnosed with mantle-cell lymphoma determined that "after four years, 83% of rituximab patients were still alive and progression-free, versus 64% of patients who had standard treatment alone."

To read more about this clinical trial, click here.

Yoga can aid sleep difficulty for breast cancer patients

Researchers at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center's integrative medicine program  have shown that practicing Tibetan yoga benefits breast cancer patients with sleeping difficulties.  The study, conducted on 227 women receiving chemotherapy for breast cancer, found that those who practice Tibetan yoga over the course of 4 75-90 minutes classes, taught one-on-one by a trained instructor, "reported fewer sleep problems and less daytime drowsiness..."

To read more about this study, click here.

Inflammatory bowel disease may raise cancer risk in children

A new study conducted at the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm, Sweden indicates that children afflicted with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are at greater risk for developing gastrointestinal cancers as adults.  The international research team, lead by Dr. Ola Olen, a pediatric gastroenterologist at Karolinska found that "the risk of cancer up to an average age of 30 was 3.3 cases per 1,000 person years among those with IBD...compared with 1.5 cases per 1,000 person years in the control group."

To read more about this study, click here.

Expert panel supports HPV test alone for cervical cancer screening over 30

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), a panel of health experts, is supporting use of the HPV test as a routine component for cervical cancer screening.  The panel recommends that "the test for the human papillomavirus (HPV) can be used once every five years for women aged 30 to 65, in lieu of the once every three-year Pap test."  For women younger than 30, aged 21-29, undergoing a Pap test once every 3 years remains the recommended option.

To read more about the USPSTF's views on this issue, click here.

Recipe for reducing colon cancer risk

A new report produced by the American Institute for Cancer Research and the World Cancer Research Fund International indicates that 3 servings of whole grains per day can lower colon cancer risk by 17%.  According to Dr. Edward Giovannucci, nearly 100 studies involving more than 29 000 000 adults were evaluated, upon which a number of recommendations were put forth, including limiting red meat and alcohol, avoiding processed meat, and increasing consumption of fiber and dairy products.

Click here to read the complete report.

New research on how fat cells encourage tumours and raise cancer risk

New research conducted at the Huntsman Cancer Institute in Salt Lake City indicates that "16 different types of cancer [are] linked to obesity."  In a new review, published today (September 5, 2017) in Cancer Prevention Research, data from 20 studies, published over the past 70 years, focused on adipose stromal cells (fat cells) and their association with malignant tumours.  The findings indicated that "obese people with prostate or breast cancer appeared to have more [adipose stromal] cells than thinner people."

To read more about this study, click here.

Study mentioned: Himbert C, Delphan M, Scherer D, Bowers L, Hursting S, Ulrich C. Signals from the adipose microenvironment and the obesity-cancer-link: a systematic review. Cancer Rev Res. 2017 Sept; 10(9): 494-506.

New trial alert: Management of malignant bowel obstruction (MBO) in patients with advanced gynecological cancers

A new trial, conducted at the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre in Toronto is seeking to optimize multidisciplinary care and evaluate treatment outcomes for malignant bowel obstruction (MBO) in women with advanced gynecological cancers.  According to the trial's hypothesis, "if patients with MBO can be effectively managed in an ambulatory setting, this may improve quality and consistency of patient care, and help reduce volume and duration of bed occupancy."

To read more about this trial, click here.

Common treatment for early prostate cancer may carry heart risk

A new study conducted on 7,600 men with early stage prostate cancer suggests that androgen-deprivation therapy may increase the risk for heart failure.  According to study author Reina Haque, a researcher with Kaiser Permanente, "patients should consider heart-healthy lifestyle changes, and physicians should actively monitor the patient's health for early signs of heart disease."  Dr. Nachum Katlowitz, director of urology at Staten Island University Teaching Hospital in New York City agrees with Haque; his reasoning is that all treatments carry potential side effects, however "if androgen-deprivation therapy increases the risk of dying from cardiovascular disease, but decreases the risk of dying from prostate cancer, then we use it."

To read more about this study, click here.

Study supports annual mammograms starting at age 40

A new study conducted at the University of Colorado School of Medicine supports guidelines suggesting that annual mammograms begin at age 40.  According to study co-author R. Edward Hendrick, computer modeling was conducted by his team of investigators on mammogram recommendations for three age groups: annual screening from ages 40-84, annual screening from ages 45-54; every other year from 45-54, and screening every other year from 50-74.  According to projections, "deaths from breast cancer would fall by an average of 40% with annual screenings" from ages 40-84.

To read more about this study, click here.  

National estimates of genetic testing in women with a history of breast or ovarian cancer: new report

A new report published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology provides new U.S. estimates of genetic testing in women with a history of breast or ovarian cancer.  According to cross-sectional data from three Cancer Control Modules, "up to 10% of breast and 15% of ovarian cancers are attributable to hereditable mutations."  This report thus quantifies the unmet need for genetic testing in patients with a history of breast and/or ovarian cancer.

To read this report in its entirety, click here.

Source mentioned: Childers CP, Childers KK, Maggard-Gibbons M, Macinko J. National estimates of genetic testing in women with a history of breast or ovarian cancer. J Clin Oncol. 2017 Aug 18:JCO2017736314. [Epub ahead of print]

New genetic blood test for detecting early stage cancers

A new study conducted at the Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center has unveiled that a genetic blood test may aid in detecting early stage cancers.  According to Dr. Victor Velculescu, the genetic test "scans blood for DNA fragments released by cancerous tumors, [detecting] many early stage cancers without rending false positives for healthy people."

To read more about this study, click here. 

Researchers ID genes in mice that cause aggressive brain cancer

Researchers at Yale University have identified a specific combination of genes causing aggressive brain cancer glioblastoma in mice.  Following the assessment of more than 1,500 genetic combinations in mice, co-corresponding author Sidi Chen stated that with the human cancer gnome mapped, "we can use this information to determine which existing drugs are most likely to have therapeutic value for individual patients, a step towards personalized cancer therapy,"

To read more about this study, click here

DNA blood test screen for rare sinus cancer

Researchers at the Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences in Hong Kong have discovered that at DNA blood test can screen for nasopharyngeal cancer.  While this form of cancer is rare in the United States (with an occurrence of 1 case in every 100,000 people), it is far more common in southern China and North Africa.  Following a clinical trial conducted on more than 20,000 individuals, "the DNA test would up accurately detecting nasopharyngeal cancer 97% of the time."

To read more about this study, click here.

Breast-feeding lowers mom's breast cancer risk

A new report published by the American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR) states that the risk of breast cancer is lowered by 2% per 5 months that a woman breastfeeds her child.  In addition, the report further states that "breast-fed babies are less likely to gain excess weight as they grow, which could reduce their cancer risk later in life."

To read more about this report, click here.

Gum disease may be linked to cancer risk in older women

A new study conducted at the School of Public Health and Health Professions at the State University of New York at Buffalo indicates a causal relationship between gum disease and increased cancer risk in postmenopausal women.  According to lead researcher Jean Waclawski-Wende, periodontal disease was associated with a "14% higher risk of developing any type of cancer [especially] esophageal cancer, which was more than three times more likely in older women who had gum disease..."

To read more about this study, click here.

Squamous cell carcinoma increasingly common

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is becoming more common, with dermatology experts warning the public to remain vigilant for warning signs of the disease.  According to Dr. M. Laurin Council, assistant professor of dermatology at Washington University in St. Louis, identifies several signs of possible squamous cell carcinoma, including "a pink or white bump; a rough, scaly patch; or a sore that won't heal."

To read more, click here.

Asbestos-associated genome-wide DNA methylation changes in lung cancer

An Epub ahead of print article published July 19, 2017 in the International Journal of Cancer follows up on previous studies correlating exposure to asbestos and lung cancer.  The current study, a cooperative endeavour between researchers in Finland, France, and Lithuania, reveals "distinctive DNA methylation changes" after a comparison of lung tissue from asbestos-exposed and non-exposed patients (primarily smokers).

 The abstract of this study can be found here.

Nerlynx approved to help prevent breast cancer recurrence

The US. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the drug Nerlynx (neratinib) to help prevent HER2-positive breast cancer recurrence.  According to the FDA news release, Nerlynx was administered to more than 2,800 early-stage HER2-positive breast cancer patients over a 2-year clinical trial.  Results showed that "after 2 years, 94.2% of users hadn't had their cancer recur, compared with 91.9% of those treated with an inactive placebo.

To read more about this news release, click here.

Little evidence that vasectomy raises prostate cancer risk

A new study conducted at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota finds very little evidence associating a vasectomy with an increased risk of prostate cancer.  According to the study authors, led by Dr. R. Jeffrey Karnes, 53 worldwide studies involving over 14 million men were analyzed; the overall consensus was that "there is no link between vasectomy and 'high-grade' aggressive prostate tumors", with a weak association of ~5% between a vasectomy and any form of prostate cancer.

To read more about this study, click here.

Parkinson's and melanoma may co-occur

Researchers at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota have unveiled a co-occurring link between Parkinson's disease and melanoma skin cancer. The study, led by Dr. Lauren Dalvin and conducted on 1,000 Parkinson's patients as well as 1,500 patients with melanoma established that individuals with Parkinson's were about 4 times more likely to develop melanoma"; the converse relationship between melanoma patients developing Parkinson's was at the same rate.

To read more about this study, click here.

New microscope scans breast tumors during surgery

A new microscope developed by scientists and engineers at the University of Washington is touted as being able to assist surgeons in completely removing breast tumours, "reducing the number of women who must undergo repeat surgeries to remove cancer cells that were missed the first time."

According to study co-author Adam Glaser, postdoctoral fellow at the University of Washington Molecular Biophotonics Laboratory, the microscope is able to scan tumours and examine cells in 3D within 30 minutes.

To read more about this microscope, click here.

Childhood chemotherapy may have lasting effects on memory

A new study conducted at the University of Leuven, Belgium indicates a correlation between childhood cancer survivors who underwent chemotherapy treatment and memory problems as these children become young adults.

According to Iris Elens, psychiatrist, and Rudi D'Hooge, professor at the University of Leuven, the 31 young adults assessed in the study started receiving chemotherapy treatment at 6 years of age.  When testing 10-15 years later, "the cancer survivors had poorer thinking flexibility and short-term memory."

To read more about this study, click here.

Nearly 1 in 2 Canadians expected to get cancer: new Canadian Cancer Statistics 2017 report

A new report, entitled Canadian Cancer Statistics 2017, was released today by the Canadian Cancer Society in partnership with the Public Health Agency of Canada and Statistics Canada.  Latest figures indicate that  "for males, the lifetime risk (of a cancer diagnosis) is 49% and for females it is 45%."  However, the overall cancer survival rate has increased from 25% in the 1940s to approximately 60% today.

To read more about this report, click here.

Amy Reed, physician and patient who “moved mountains” to end widespread use of power morcellation, dies at 44

“I always wanted to be a doctor when I was little,” Reed said in 2015. “I wanted to go into medicine and be a doctor and fix things, and cure the world.”


Reed’s dream came true, albeit not in the way she envisioned.


Reed, a Pennsylvania native, died May 24 from complications stemming from disseminated uterine cancer. She was 44.


Read this true story of how the use of power morcellators should not be used for hysterectomies or fibroid removal.

WHO list of priority medical devices for cancer management

Have you checked the new priority list of medical devices for cancer management? This list also describes for six types of cancer: breast, cervical, colorectal, leukemia, lung and prostate.

Scientists report progress on genetic test for anal cancer

A new genetic test being conducted at Cancer Research U.K.may be a "less invasive method to help doctors identify people who are at a higher risk of anal cancer and avoid unnecessary procedures for those who are at a lower risk."  According to Dr. Rachel Orritt, Cancer Research U.K.'s health information officer, this study provides a stronger connection between what is known regarding cell DNA changes and cervical cancer, providing a new more definitive set of biomarkers to identify men and women at increased risk of anal cancer.

To read more about this study, click here 

Association of delayed adjuvant chemotherapy with survival after lung cancer surgery

A recent retrospective study of 12 473 patients with NSCLC from the National Cancer Database found that, adjuvant chemotherapy given later (57–127 days) in the postoperative period was not associated with mortality. Furthermore, patients who received adjuvant chemotherapy later had a significantly better survival when compared with patients treated with surgery alone.

Read more here.

Eating nuts linked to improved chances of survival for colon cancer patients

2 New studies, scheduled for presentation at next month's annual meeting of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) in Chicago, indicate that consumption of nuts, along with a healthy diet and regular exercise increases a colon cancer patients chances of survival.  One of the studies, funded by the U.S. National Institutes of Health, followed 800 patients who underwent surgery and chemotherapy for colon cancer.  These patients were followed for 7 years following completion of chemotherapy, and asked specific questions pertaining to their diet, in particular the amount of nuts consumed.  19% of patients surveyed reported eating at least 2 ounces of nuts per week, with researchers finding "both a lower risk of cancer recurrence and higher overall survival in that group."

To read more about this study, click here.

E-cigarettes linked to bladder cancer risk

A recent news release by the American Urological Association indicates that the use of e-cigarettes leads to an increased risk of bladder cancer.  According to a study conducted at the Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center in Nashville, researchers found that "e-cigarettes triggered cancer-related damage to bladder tissue...[while also showing that] nicotine, nitrosamines and formaldehyde led to damage while blocking DNA repair, boosting cancer risk."

To read more about this study, click here.

Tai chi for insomnia in breast cancer survivors

A new study conducted at the UCLA Cousins Center for Psychoneuroimmunology at the Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavour in Los Angeles indicates that tai chi may help relax breast cancer survivors with insomnia.  According to study lead Dr. Michael Irwin, tai chi was seen as being more effective "than medication in treating insomnia and reducing the risk for sleep loss-related health issues, including depression, fatigue, and a weakened immune system."

To read more about this study, click here.

Therapeutic and preventive implications of moonshot in hereditary cancer syndromes

President Obama’s proposed fiscal year 2017 budget includes $1 billion for eliminating cancer. This initiative has led to the belief that concentrating on treatment is a limited approach to the overall reduction of cancer mortality, considering the success of cancer research in prevention. However, a powerful method for cancer prevention and survival has been the discipline of hereditary cancer syndromes. This article discusses the significance of investing billions of dollars in genomic sequencing and the implications of finding a hereditary mutation in patients with metastatic cancer using next-generation sequencing (NGS).

Read more here.

Hope for 1st drug against lymphedema

Researchers at the Standard University School of Medicine claim to be close to developing the first drug therapy to combat lymphedema, a a condition causing painful swollen limbs that affects many cancer patients, especially those that have undergone treatment for breast cancer.

While most of the research conducted thus far is based on results from mice and human cells, a clinical trial is in place "to see whether these lab discoveries will translate into a new lymphedema treatment."

To read more about this study, click here.

How can we answer still open questions about contribution of hormone therapy in prostate cancer to cognitive deficits?

Please read the reply from JAMA Oncology about an recent article on the association of androgen deprivation therapy with increased dementia risk.

Cervical cancer and lasting symptoms on survivors

A new study conducted at the Medical University in Vienna indicates that many survivors of cervical cancer continue to experience "mild to moderate fatigue, insomnia, and hot flashes" several years after their cancer diagnosis.  According to study author Stephanie Smet, a radiation oncology resident, the 1200 women who took part in the study were all survivors of locally advanced cervical cancer, and ranged in age from 22 - 91; 64% of these women experienced fatigue, and 43% reported insomnia.

To read more about this study, click here.

Myelodysplastic syndrome: Is it just that? The importance of obtaining an accurate family history

Up to 72 percent of adolescents with myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), and monosomy 7 have the GATA2 mutation. Approximately one-half of the cases of GATA2 deficiency result from a germline mutation and is heritable.

Oncology nurses and providers are in a unique position to impact these outcomes by obtaining detailed and accurate family histories to optimize treatment decisions, especially for patients with MDS and/or AML. Research has shown that GATA2 patients that undergo stem cell transplantation prior to development of life-threatening infections or cytogenetic abnormalities have better outcomes.Interventions: An accurate family history is a valuable, inexpensive, and often underused tool. Please read the latest conference abstract on the Importance of obtaining an accurate family history.

Clinician participation in CADTH’s pan-Canadian Oncology Drug Review: contribution and impact on cancer drug funding recommendations

In any given week, media headlines publicize the benefits of a new “breakthrough” cancer drug, with patients and clinicians subsequently advocating for its use. Governments, which face the difficult task of deciding how best to allocate limited public resources, must at the same time balance ongoing commitments to provide optimal health care for Canadians and to ensure value for money and the sustainability of the Canadian health care system.

Established by the provincial and territorial ministries of health, the pan-Canadian Oncology Drug Review (pcodr) program operating within the Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health (cadth) is designed to bring consistency and clarity to the assessment of cancer drugs by looking at clinical and economic evidence, by taking into consideration clinician and patient perspectives, and by using that information to make recommendations to the participating jurisdictions to guide their drug funding decisions.

Read more here.

Health Canada has approved DARZALEX® (daratumumab) for patients with multiple myeloma who have had at least one prior therapy

TORONTO, April 17, 2017 /CNW/ - Janssen Inc. announced today that Health Canada has approved DARZALEX® (daratumumab), in combination with lenalidomide and dexamethasone, or bortezomib and dexamethasone, for the treatment of patients with multiple myeloma who have received at least one prior therapy. Due to the high unmet medical need for multiple myeloma patients, DARZALEX® was granted a Priority Review by Health Canada for this submission.

Data from two Phase 3 studies supported this new approval. They include the open-label, randomized clinical studies POLLUX (MMY3003) and CASTOR (MMY3004). POLLUX was published in The New England Journal of Medicine, with an accompanying editorial, in October 20167; and CASTOR was published in The New England Journal of Medicine in August 2016.

Studies mentioned:
Dimopoulos, M. A., Oriol, A., Nahi, H., San-Miguel, J., Bahlis, N. J., Usmani, S. Z., . . . Moreau, P. (2016). Daratumumab, lenalidomide, and dexamethasone for multiple myeloma. N Engl J Med, 375(14), 1319-1331. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa1607751

Palumbo, A., Chanan-Khan, A., Weisel, K., Nooka, A. K., Masszi, T., Beksac, M., . . . Sonneveld, P. (2016). Daratumumab, bortezomib, and dexamethasone for multiple myeloma. N Engl J Med, 375(8), 754-766. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa1606038

Higher prostate cancer risks for black men may warrant new approach to screening

A new study indicates that higher prostate cancer death rates among black men in the US may be due to a higher risk of developing preclinical prostate cancer as well as a higher risk of that cancer progressing more quickly to advanced stages. Published early online in CANCER, a peer-reviewed journal of the American Cancer Society, the study suggests that screening policies may need to be tailored to the higher-risk status of this population.

Study mentioned:
"Is prostate cancer different in black men? Answers from three natural history models." Alex Tsodikov, Roman Gulati, Tiago M. de Carvalho, Eveline A. M. Heijnsdijk, Rachel A. Hunter-Merrill, Angela B. Mariotto, Harry J. de Koning, and Ruth Etzioni. CANCER; Published Online: April 24, 2017 (DOI: 10.1002/cncr.30687).
URL Upon Publication.

Malaria parasite could treat cancer

A new study being conducted at the University of British Columbia indicates that a malaria parasite may be able to treat bladder cancer in patients who do not respond favourably to traditional chemotherapy.  According to Mads Daugaard, professor of urologic science, the treatment, "utilizing a combination of malaria protein with a marine sponge toxin" has proven to be 80% effective on mice tested.  While considerable more testing is required on humans, this new finding does bring hope, as bladder cancer kills more than 2,000 Canadians each year.

To read more about the study, click here:

Breast milk tests may one day replace mammograms

A preliminary study conducted at Clarkson University in Potsdam, New York, scientists have discovered "alterations in protein expression in the breast milk of women with breast cancer compared to women without breast cancer."  According to study author Roshanak Aslebagh, the proteins may indicate potential biomarkers of breast cancer and serve as a viable breast cancer screening mechanism for women under the age of 40.  As the study authors further note, "breast milk analysis may someday offer an alternative to mammograms for women in their childbearing years."

To read more about this study, click here.

Avelumab: first FDA-approved treatment for Merkel cell carcinoma

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration on March 23 approved the immunotherapy drug avelumab for metastatic Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) — a rare, aggressive form of skin cancer — for adults and patients 12 years of age and older. Avelumab, marketed as Bavencio, is the first FDA-approved treatment for MCC.

Avelumab is an antibody that targets programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1), a protein found on several types of tumors. PD-L1 binds T cells, white blood cells that defend against disease. This inactivates the T cells and allows tumor cells to avoid immune attack. Avelumab binds to PD-L1, preventing the T cells from being switched off so they can still attack tumor cells.

To read more about avelumab, click here.

World Cancer Day 2017 Impact Report

The World Cancer Day 2017 Impact Report has now been released.  This document focuses on the activities that took place in more than 100 countries on February 4, 2017, focusing on government actions, municipalities, businesses, communities, and individuals with regards to the impact of cancer.

Click here to read the report.

Survival continues to improve for most cancers

According to a new report published by the U.S. National Cancer Institute's Surveillance Research Program, overall cancer death rates continue to fall.  Between 2010-2014, death rates decreased for 11 out of 16 common cancers in man, and 13 out of 16 common cancers in women.  These included cancer of the lung, colon, prostate, and breast.  However, death rates for liver, pancreas and brain cancer in women, along with liver and uterus cancers in women continue to rise.

To read more about this report, click here.  

High doses of vitamin D do not cut cancer risk

A new clinical trial conducted at Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School indicate that high doses of vitamin D supplements may not lower risk of developing cancer in older women.  According to Dr. JoAnn Manson, the trial, involving 2,300 older women randomly assigned either high-doses of vitamin D plus calcium or placebo pills resulted in "no compelling evidence that vitamin D reduces cancer incidence."  Two additional trials, comprising 20,000 individuals are currently ongoing.

For more information, click here.

MRI for prostate cancer screening

A new study conducted by Dutch researchers indicates that MRI screening can reduce overdiagnosis of prostate cancer by 50% in men over 70. According to lead researcher Dr. Arnout Alberta, from the urology department at Erasmus University Medical Center in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, the study, conducted in 335 men 71 years of age and older, found that "70% of the men...would not have needed biopsies at all if MRI had been used beforehand, because no suspicious areas showed up on their scans."

To read more about this study, click here.  

Family history of colon cancer necessitates earlier screening

According to a recent hospital news release by Dr. Walter Koltun, chief of colon and rectal surgery at Penn State Health Hershey Medical Center, individuals with a family history of colon or rectal cancers should be screened before age 50.  According to Koltun, "if more than one close relative has had colon or rectal cancer, your risk of getting such a cancer is 12 times greater."

To read more about this news release, click here.

Obesity linked to higher esophageal and stomach cancer risk

A new study from the U.S. National Cancer Institute indicates a correlation between overweight individuals in their 20s with an increased risk of esophageal and stomach cancer should they become obese later in life.  Study data revealed a 60%-80% increase risk of developing the above noted cancers for individuals who were overweight from age 20 compared to those with a normal body weight.  According to lead researcher Jessica Petrick, "these findings underscore the potential of weight control programs for decreasing the likelihood of developing esophageal and stomach cancer, both of which have extremely poor survival ."

To read more about this study, click here.

CHANGE Cancer Alberta: new cancer prevention program

An innovative new cancer prevention program aimed at increasing physical activity, promoting healthy eating and reducing obesity has been a successful initiative for more than 800 Albertans thus far.  Known as CHANGE, the program "links people at risk of chronic disease with a registered dietitian and an exercise specialist."

To read more about CHANGE, click here.

Soy safe and protective for breast cancer survivors

While the debate surrounding the use of soy for breast cancer patients has been discussed for several years, a new study conducted at Tufts University's Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy in Boston breast cancer survivors who consumed soy had a lower risk of death during a 10 year follow-up period.  According to Dr. Fang Fang Zhang, assistant professor of epidemiology at Tufts University, "overall, consuming higher levels of soy is associated with a 21% reduction in the risk of death compared to women who consumed soy at a lower level".

To read more about this study, click here.

Brain training for cancer survivor's nerve damage

A new study conducted at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center investigates the use of neurofeedback, aimed at helping cancer survivors control symptoms of chemotherapy-induced nerve damage.  According to lead investigator Sarah Prinsloo, "neurofeedback has no known side effects, can be used in combinations with other treatments and is reasonable cost-effective."

To read more about this study, click here.

Colon and rectal cancers rising in young people

Scientists are reporting a sharp rise in colorectal cancers in adults as young as their 20s and 30s, though the reasons are unclear.

The vast majority of colorectal cancers are still found in older people, with nearly 90 percent of all cases diagnosed in people over 50. But a new study from the American Cancer Society that analyzed cancer incidence by birth year found that colorectal cancer rates, which had dropped steadily for people born between 1890 and 1950, have been increasing for every generation born since 1950. Experts aren’t sure why.

Rectal cancers are rising particularly sharply, far faster than cancers in other parts of the large intestine or colon. The American Cancer Society estimates about 13,500 new cases of colon and rectal cancers will be diagnosed in Americans under 50 this year, with more than 95,500 cases of colon cancer and nearly 40,000 cases of rectal cancer in all age groups.

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Study mentioned:
Colorectal Cancer Incidence Patterns in the United States, 1974–2013
Rebecca L. Siegel Stacey A. Fedewa William F. Anderson Kimberly D. Miller Jiemin Ma Philip S. Rosenberg Ahmedin Jemal
J Natl Cancer Inst (2017) 109 (8): djw322. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1093/jnci/djw322
Published: 28 February 2017

SWOG study shows strong long-term survival rates for patients with GIST

Nine years ago, SWOG researchers confirmed a new standard of care for patients with incurable gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST), who could survive by being treated with imatinib mesylate, the breakthrough drug marketed as Gleevec. SWOG researchers are back with long-term findings from that study, which estimate that nearly one in four patients treated with Gleevec will survive 10 years. Results are published in JAMA Oncology.

In this new study results published in JAMA Oncology, researchers from SWOG, the international cancer research community supported by the National Cancer Institute, report a follow-up of patients originally enrolled in S0033, a SWOG-led trial supported by other groups in the NCI's National Clinical Trials Network (NCTN). Initial results published in 2008 confirmed Gleevec as an effective treatment for advanced GIST patients.

Study mentioned:
JAMA Oncol. 2017 Feb 9. doi: 10.1001/jamaoncol.2016.6728. [Epub ahead of print]
Correlation of Long-term Results of Imatinib in Advanced Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors With Next-Generation Sequencing Results: Analysis of Phase 3 SWOG Intergroup Trial S0033.

Exercise a powerful ally for breast cancer survivors

New research from Canada indicates that exercise more than any other healthy habit lowers a breast cancer survivors chance of dying.  According to author Dr. Ellen Warner, medical oncology at Sunnybrook Odette Cancer Centre in Ontario, of all of the lifestyle changes patients made in reducing the risk of cancer recurrence, "exercise came out on top, reducing the risk of breast cancer death by about 40%."

To read more about this study, click here.

Long-term adjuvant Tamoxifen therapy and decreases in contralateral breast cancer

Tamoxifen revolutionized personalized medicine as the first targeted therapy proven to save lives in cancer. The paradigm change proposed to block the breast tumor estrogen receptor (ER), apply long-term adjuvant therapy to block estrogen-stimulated recurrences, and apply the potential of tamoxifen to prevent breast cancer. These recommendations have been put into clinical practice for three decades. Please read the latest JAMA editorial on this therapy.

Study mentioned:
Abderrahman B, Jordan VC. Long-term Adjuvant Tamoxifen Therapy and Decreases in Contralateral Breast Cancer . JAMA Oncol. 2017;3(2):163-164. doi:10.1001/jamaoncol.2016.3324

The nuclear transport receptor Importin-11 is a tumor suppressor that maintains PTEN protein

Rockefeller University investigators identify a key anti-cancer protein - the study was recently published. Please read more from the Journal of Cell Biology here.

Cancer incidence and mortality rates in Alberta on downward trend

The newly released Report on Cancer Statistics in Alberta indicates that incidence rates of cancer have declined by 0.6% annually between 2001-2014, with a 2.1% decrease per year in mortality rates during that same time period.  The Screening for Life Program emphasizes the importance of early detection and screening on a patient's rate of survival.  According to Dr. Huiming Yang, Medical Director, Screening, Population, Public, and Indigenous Health, "we want Albertans to know what screening options are available to them and we need everyone to take personal responsibility for their health and well-being by asking their doctor about what cancer screening programs are right for them."

To read more about this report, click here.

Breath test may be able to detect stomach cancers earlier

Research recently presented at the European Cancer Congress (ECC) indicates that a breath test may be able to detect earlier incidents of stomach and esophageal cancers.  According to study author Dr. Sheraz Markar from Imperial College in London, A breath test could be used as a noninvasive, first-line test to reduce the number of unnecessary endoscopies."  Measuring 5 chemicals in breath, this test, conducted on more than 300 patients has been found to be 85% accurate.

To read more about this study, click here.

HPV vaccine does not eliminate need for Pap test

With January being designated as Cervical Health Awareness Month, oncologists are reminding patients about the importance and need for women of all ages to undergo Pap test screening.  According to Dr. Jayanthi Lea, from UT Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas, "the [HPV] vaccine reduces the risk of cancer, but has not yet been shown to eliminate the need for screening."

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Even small amount of daily activity can boost colon cancer survival

A new U.S. study conducted on 1,200 colon cancer patients indicated a 19% decrease in early risk of death for those exercising 30 minutes or more on a daily basis. Further, individuals who exercised at least 5 hours per week saw their survival rate rise to 25%.  According to Dr. Andrew Chan, associate professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School, these findings do support the notion that "patients who have cancer and who are physically active...have a better prognosis."

To read more about this study, click here.

Chemo Brain may last for several months after breast cancer treatment

A new study conducted in the United States, considered to be the largest of its kind to date, explored explored the effects of memory and attention issues affecting breast cancer survivors after undergoing chemotherapy treatment.  According to study author Michelle Janelsins, assistant professor o surgery, radiation oncology and neuroscience at the University of Rochester Medical Center and the Wilmot Cancer Institute in New York, "a month after chemo ended, 45% of patients reported a significant decline in so-called cognitive abilities", an effect that continued to linger 6 months later where "36% of patients still felt their mental ability had declined."

To read more about this study, click here.

Drug for advanced bone cancer may require less frequent dosing

Researchers at the Helen F. Graham Cancer Center & Research Institute in Newark, Delaware have determined that use of Zometa, a drug used to treat bone cancer, reduces side effects in patients and increases cost savings wen administered every 3 months instead of monthly.  This change in dosage has not resulted in increased risk of bone problems over a 2-year period.  The study, conducted on more than 1800 patients with breast cancer, prostate cancer, or multiple myeloma indicated bone problems in 30% of patients who received the drug monthly compared to 29% who were administered the drug every 3 months.

To read more about this study, click here.

New targeted therapies show promise for treating advanced GIST

Two early-phase clinical trials testing new targeted therapies for advanced gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) have produced promising preliminary results. Although the findings are preliminary, Lee Helman, M.D., of NCI's Center for Cancer Research, said the drugs show substantial promise as a treatment for patients with GIST whose tumors stop responding to standard therapies.

The trial results were presented earlier this month at the EORTC-NCI-AACR Molecular Targets and Cancer Therapeutics ConferenceExit Disclaimer in Munich.

Read more here.

Response to Durvalumab increased with high PD-L1 expression in pretreated NSCLC

Durvalumab treatment in the second-line setting or beyond demonstrated clinical benefit and led to durable responses in heavily pretreated patients with locally advanced or metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), according to findings presented at the 17th World Lung Cancer Conference in Vienna.

Rad more here.