In a nutshell This study investigated the outcomes of patients with rectal cancer who were followed up with the watch and wait method after chemoradiotherapy (CRT). Researchers suggested that this strategy can effectively identify patients who can have a less frequent follow-up if they maintain response for the first 3 years...
Read MoreType(s) of colorectal cancer (CRC)-Malignant polyp of the rectum Posts on Medivizor
Treatment guidelines for elderly patients with colorectal cancer
In a nutshell In this study, the International Society of Geriatric Oncology (SIOG) updated recommendations for treating elderly patients with colorectal cancer. Some background Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide. The majority of colorectal cancer cases are diagnosed in people over 70 years old. The recommended...
Read MoreCan lifestyle factors affect mortality outcomes in colorectal cancer?
In a nutshell This study evaluated the association between lifestyle factors and mortality in colorectal cancer. Some background To date, few studies have examined the relationship of lifestyle factors with mortality among patients with colorectal cancer. The American Cancer Society Guidelines on Nutrition and Physical Activity for Cancer...
Read MoreCould endoscopies have harmful implications?
In a nutshell This study evaluated the effect of endoscopic procedures on subsequent surgical outcomes. Some background Most colorectal cancers start as small polyps; an abnormal growth of tissue that starts in the inner lining of the colon or rectum. Although most polyps are not malignant, some represent early stage cancer, and early removal...
Read MoreKRAS mutations and the effectiveness of oxaliplatin-based chemotherapy
In a nutshell This study evaluated survival benefit with the use of oxaliplatin (Eloxatin) in relation to KRAS gene status among patients with metastatic colorectal cancer. Some background Metastatic colorectal cancer (cancer that has spread from the large intestine to distant organs and tissues) is often treated by a combination of chemotherapy...
Read MoreCould preoperative MRI predict rectal cancer outcomes?
In a nutshell This study evaluated preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the evaluation of surgical margins among rectal cancer patients. Some background Surgical removal of the tumor is the optimal treatment in the case of local rectal cancer. Removal of the intact tumor, with surrounding tissue and lymph-nodes, without leaving behind...
Read MoreCould beta-blockers improve survival in colorectal cancer?
In a nutshell This study investigated the association between survival and beta-blocker use in colorectal cancer. Some background Colorectal cancer is one of the most common malignant diseases worldwide. Despite recent advances in treatments such surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy, survival rates among advanced colorectal cancer patients...
Read MoreDiet and colorectal cancer
In a nutshell This review explored the relationship between dietary supplements and colorectal cancer outcomes. Some background The prevalence of colorectal cancer has steadily increased over the past 50 years. Dietary changes and decreased physical activity have led to an obesity epidemic in the western world, a known risk factor for many...
Read MoreIs radiotherapy during surgery safe?
In a nutshell The study aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of intraoperative radiotherapy (IORT) in patients with rectal cancer in comparison to patients who undergo rectal surgery alone. Some background Rectal cancer develops on the inner surface of the rectum, the last part of the large intestine. The first treatment option for these...
Read MoreIncreasing response to treatment with statins
In a nutshell This study examined whether statin use during cancer treatments can increase response rates and outcomes among rectal cancer patients before surgery. Some background Chemoradiation (chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy) is often used among rectal cancer patients before undergoing surgery (referred to as neoadjuvant therapy). Neoadjuvant...
Read MoreNew and current second-line treatments
In a nutshell This review discusses current second-line treatment options for metastatic colorectal cancer, as well as new advances in colorectal cancer therapy. Some background Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer in the world, and up to 40% of CRC patients will experience metastasis, or spread, of the disease. Advances in...
Read MoreNSAIDs and cancer
In a nutshell This review analyzed a number of studies which evaluated the effect of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) on cancers of the gastrointestinal system, such as colorectal cancer. Some background NSAIDs, such as aspirin and ibuprofen (Advil), are a class of drugs commonly used for pain relief and fever reduction. NSAIDs exert...
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