In a nutshell This trial examined the effectiveness of combining brachytherapy (a type of radiation) and chemotherapy for the treatment of locally recurrent non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) that has already been treated. The trial concluded that the combination of treatments was more effective than chemotherapy alone. Some background Locally...
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Alectinib in crizotinib-resistant lung cancer – Is it safe and effective?
In a nutshell This trial looked at the safety and efficacy of alectinib (Alecensa) in the treatment of patients with ALK-rearranged non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) that had progressed after treatment with crizotinib (Xalkori). This trial concluded that alectinib was safe and effective in these patients. Some background Some NSCLCs...
Read MoreDiet and the risk of type 2 diabetes in women with gestational diabetes
In a nutshell This study examined the effect of a low carbohydrate diet on the risk of type 2 diabetes in women who have had gestational diabetes. Some background Women who have gestational diabetes are 7 times more likely to develop type 2 diabetes (T2D) compared to pregnant women who have not had gestational diabetes. Regular exercise...
Read MoreSerenoa repens for prostate inflammation
In a nutshell This study investigated the effects of serenoa repens extract in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Researchers concluded that serenoa repens reduces prostate inflammatory markers in a selected group of patients. Some background Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) may lead to bothersome urinary symptoms, and is often...
Read MoreCan comprehensive chromosome screening enhance IVF/ICSI success?
In a nutshell This study examined whether comprehensive chromosome screening can improve IVF/ICSI outcomes. Some background Chromosomes are structures located in each cell of the body and consist of DNA. Most cells in the human body have 23 pairs of chromosomes (46 chromosomes in total). Alterations in the number of chromosomes can...
Read MoreNow less invasive: New surgery for stress urinary incontinence
In a nutshell This study compared the effectiveness of two surgical techniques used to treat stress urinary incontinence in women. Researchers concluded that the new Ajust procedure was safe and effective for the treatment of stress urinary incontinence. Ajust was associated with less surgical side effects as well as a shorter recovery time. Some...
Read MoreCould statins also treat BPH?
In a nutshell This study investigated the effects of statin treatment on benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Statins were found to significantly reduce prostate size and improve urinary symptoms. Some background Statins, such as simvastatin (Zocor) and atorvastatin (Lipitor), are common drugs used to reduce cholesterol levels. Updated...
Read MoreDoes pessary use affect sexual function?
In a nutshell This study examined the effects of pessary use on sexual function. Reaserchers concluded that pessaries do not affect sexual outcomes among women using these devices. Some background Pessaries are small flexible devices inserted into the vagina to provide support for pelvic organs. They are commonly used to treat urinary incontinence...
Read MorePenile implants: What do men say?
In a nutshell This study investigated sexual satisfaction among penile prosthesis users. Researchers concluded that the level of satisfaction with implanted penile devices is very high, with a positive impact on sexual, psychological and relational function. Some background Penile implants have developed remarkably over the past decade. Multiple...
Read MoreDextromethorphan and sitagliptin for the treatment of type 2 diabetes
In a nutshell This study aimed to determine the effect of sitagliptin and dextromethorphan on blood glucose levels. Some background Patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) initially produce insulin (hormone which lowers blood glucose levels). However, insulin fails to work in the body. Drugs such as metformin...
Read MoreCombination of vemurafenib and cobimetinib in melanoma
In a nutshell The authors evaluated the effectiveness of a combination therapy of vemurafenib (Zelboraf) and cobimetinib (Cotellic) for the treatment of advanced melanoma. Some background In advanced melanoma (stage 3/4), cancer spreads from the skin to other parts of the body. Targeted therapy has shown improved outcomes in these stages...
Read MoreExercise for people with heart disease
In a nutshell This paper provided an overview of cardiac rehabilitation for people with heart disease. Some background Cardiac rehabilitation involves activities done to improve the condition of heart disease. Activities such as exercise, psychological intervention, and patient education all form a part of cardiac...
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