In a nutshell This study reviewed evidence on local treatments for erectile dysfunction. Researchers concluded that local treatment with alprostadil (Muse, Vitaros) is a safe and effective alternative treatment option for erectile dysfunction. Some background Drug therapy with phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors (PDE5i), such...
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Erectile dysfunction: An early sign of heart disease?
In a nutshell This study investigated the relationship between erectile dysfunction and cardiovascular risk, specifically plaque build-up in major arteries. Researchers concluded that men with erectile dysfunction are at increased risk of cardiovascular disease, and recommend increased screening. Some background Atherosclerosis (build-up of...
Read MoreCombined androgen blockade before surgery for local cancers
In a nutshell This study examined the potential benefit of early intensive hormonal therapy (combined androgen blockade) in men with high-risk local prostate cancer, given before surgery. Researchers concluded that intensive hormone therapy may be more effective than standard treatment in reducing androgen levels, but seldom results in complete tumor...
Read MoreBRCA mutations – What is the risk of contralateral breast cancer?
In a nutshell This study looked at the risk of developing contralateral breast cancer (CBC) in patients with or without BRCA mutations. The study concluded that age at the time of first cancer diagnosis is a strong risk factor for CBC in patients with BRCA. Some background Contralateral breast cancer (CBC) is the development of a second new breast...
Read MoreFertility drugs and cancer risk
In a nutshell This study assessed the possible relationship between fertility drugs and cancer risk. The results showed a significant link between fertility drugs and thyroid cancer and melanomas, which requires further investigation. Some background Cancer is caused by abnormal cell growth. Fertility drugs, such as clomiphene citrate (Clomid),...
Read MoreSlowing cancer progression before chemotherapy
In a nutshell This study examined the benefit of enzalutamide (Xtandi) in treating patients with advanced prostate cancer requiring chemotherapy. Researchers concluded that enzalutamide treatment results in delayed disease progression and increased overall survival. Some background Hormone therapy is commonly used to treat prostate cancer. By...
Read MoreWhat are the risk factors for melanoma relapse after 10 years?
In a nutshell The authors evaluated the risk factors for late spread of melanoma in patients disease-free for 10 to 15 years. Researchers concluded that age at time of diagnosis and tumor thickness are predictors of late melanoma relapse. Some background Early stage melanoma patients are often considered ‘cured’ after 10 or...
Read MoreA possible way to prevent oxaliplatin induced liver damage
In a nutshell This study investigated how oxaliplatin chemotherapy causes liver damage. The authors provided insight into the mechanism of liver injury, and suggest that bevacizumab (Avastin) may protect against such injury. Some background Oxaliplatin is a chemotherapeutic drug which is commonly used to treat advanced colorectal cancer (CRC)....
Read MoreCan a healthy diet reduce the risk of ischemic strokes?
In a nutshell This study investigated a possible link between dietary habits and strokes. The researchers found that stroke patients were less likely to maintain a healthy diet compared to healthy controls. Some background Healthy diet and physical activity have been shown to be beneficial for overall health, but have not been studied in detail...
Read MoreThe benefits of mastectomy as a preventative measure
In a nutshell This analysis examined whether contralateral prophylactic mastectomy is associated with improved survival and occurrence of contralateral breast cancer. The analysis concluded that CPM is associated with decreased occurrence of CBC but not improved survival among patients with increased genetic risk. Some background Women who are...
Read MoreNon-drug alternatives for dealing with chemotherapy symptoms
In a nutshell The study investigated the effectiveness of a self-management program on antiemetic-induced constipation in breast cancer patients. The study concluded that the self-management program was effective for relieving the symptoms of constipation during chemotherapy. Some background Breast cancer patients may decide to take antiemetic...
Read MoreInhaled insulin for the treatment of diabetes
In a nutshell This review examined the safety and effectiveness of technosphere insulin for the treatment of diabetes. The authors concluded that technosphere insulin is safe and effective in reducing blood glucose levels at meals. Some background Insulin (a hormone which reduces blood glucose levels) replacement therapy is used in the...
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