'Whitewash' over cancer blunder Oct 31, 2009
The panel said Dr McNee had been responsible for planning the botched course of radiotherapy, but said his biggest failing had been not speaking out over staffing pressures in his department. This had led to his failure to ensure that standing operating procedures were up to date or even followed, or to make sure that systems were in place to ensure his trainee practitioners were supported. (BBC News -- UK)
Global Phase III Study Results Show Eribulin Meets Primary Endpoint of Overall Survival Oct 31, 2009
Treatment of physician's choice is defined as any single agent chemotherapy, hormonal treatment or biological therapy approved for the treatment of cancer; or palliative treatment or radiotherapy administered according to local practice. Preliminary results from the study demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in overall survival, the primary endpoint, in eribulin-treated patients compared with the physician's choice of therapy. (JCN Network, Japan)
Testicular Cancer Survivors Face Other Ills Oct 30, 2009
"Gastrointestinal side effects are common during both chemotherapy and radiotherapy, and chemotherapy carries added risks like infections and blood clots. Long-term problems include secondary cancers, heart problems, and conditions related to lower hormone levels." ... The avoidance of mediastinal radiotherapy has reduced the likelihood of long-lasting heart problems ... But infra-diaphragmatic radiotherapy boosts death rates slightly. (MEDLINEplus)
Ballesteros' recovery from cancer positive Oct 29, 2009
The 52-year-old Spaniard said Wednesday on his Web page that "exhaustive" checks two weeks ago confirmed that an "aggressive" radiotherapy treatment used over the past six weeks had provided "very positive" results. Ballesteros said that he would rest as much as possible now after feeling fatigue over the course of treatment. (The Star Online, Malaysia)
New leader tapped by the LPGA Oct 29, 2009
The 52-year-old Spaniard said Wednesday on his Web page that tests confirmed that an aggressive radiotherapy treatment used over the past six weeks had provided "very positive" results. From the Thursday, October 29, 2009 edition of the Augusta Chronicle Reader Comments Note: Comments are not edited and don't represent the views of The Augusta Chronicle. (The Augusta Chronicle)
Adding Chemo Helps Head, Neck Cancer Patients Oct 29, 2009
2 years from just one year with radiotherapy alone, finds a new study ... Those who hadn't undergone surgery for their cancer were randomly assigned to one of four groups: radiotherapy alone (233 patients); two courses of simultaneous (SIM) chemotherapy given at the same time as radiotherapy (166 patients); two courses of chemotherapy after (subsequent -- SUB) completing radiotherapy (160 patients); or both SIM and SUB (154 patients) ... Patients who'd had surgery were randomly assigned to... (MEDLINEplus)
Practice-changing cancer studies to be unveiled at ASTRO Annual Meeting Oct 28, 2009
Stereotactic radiotherapy stops lung cancer from growing in frail patients. Stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) stopped the growth of cancer at its original site in the lung for three years among nearly 98 percent of patients with early non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) who are unable to have the cancer surgically removed, according to an updated three-year study presented on Monday, November 2, 2009. (EurekAlert!)
Obama: Health Care Reform Closer than Ever Oct 28, 2009
" by nevermime October 27, 2009 11:48 AM EDT If they want the GOP to support health care reform just call it a war funding bill. by sassafrass019 October 27, 2009 11:44 AM EDT by Mortarman_29 October 27, 2009 11:07 AM EDTThere is NO proposal on the table to recreate the Canadian system in the US. Why do you continue to post these meaningless references to the Canadian System? Just to create fear of something you apparently know little about? by steveinohio1 October 27, 2009 11:36 AM EDT I have... (CBS News -- Health)
Celebrities and breast cancer Oct 28, 2009
She immediately started radiotherapy, and underwent surgery, too. The experience of treating her breast cancer led to her establishing the Anastacia Fund. (The Star Online, Malaysia)
Herbal Tonic For Radiotherapy? Gingko Biloba Tree May Protect Cells From Radiation Damage Oct 27, 2009
Herbal Tonic For Radiotherapy ... Herbal Tonic For Radiotherapy ... The discovery may one day be used to help reduce side effects in cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy. (Science Daily)
How Low Doses Of Radiation Can Cause Heart Disease And Stroke Oct 24, 2009
For some time, scientists have understood how high-dose radiotherapy (RT) causes inflammation in the heart and large arteries and how this results in the increased levels of cardiovascular disease observed in many groups of patients who receive RT. However, in the last few years, studies have shown that there may also be cardiovascular risks associated with the much lower fractionated doses of radiation received by groups such as nuclear workers, but it is not clear what biological mechanisms... (Science Daily)
Empower Yourselves Oct 23, 2009
If radiotherapy is required, it is not advised as radiotherapy may lead to complications with the implant. Generally reconstruction is also not advised in patients with diabetes. (The Star Online, Malaysia)
Exercise Reduces Fatigue In Cancer Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy Oct 22, 2009
An increasing number of cancer patients are being treated with chemotherapy, either given alone or with surgery and/or radiotherapy. While chemotherapy treatments have improved, patients still suffer from side-effects, including nausea, vomiting, pain, insomnia, appetite loss and fatigue. (Science Daily)
Fighting The Disease Oct 20, 2009
We have all the treatments available here surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, hormone therapy and targeted therapy such as herceptin ... Breast cancer is multidisciplinary the surgeon alone cannot do everything you need the radiologist and the pathologist together with the surgeon to make the diagnosis, and after that you need the oncologist for chemotherapy / radiotherapy. (The Star Online, Malaysia)
Ascension leads $6M funding of Augmenix Oct 20, 2009
Augmenix focuses on developing and commercializing implantable biomaterial, or hydrogels, to improve radiotherapy outcomes. Also participating in the funding round were existing Augmenix investors and. (St. Louis Business Journal, MO)
Natco Pharma faces criminal action Oct 19, 2009
Every year, almost 1 lakh new breast cancer cases are reported in India , and drug complications can play havoc with the health of patients who usually undergo surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy. The market for this drug is about Rs 200 crore, but the Natco official said Albupaxs contribution to its top line is insignificant. (India Times)
'Under par' in a good way, Seve survives his four toughest cuts Oct 16, 2009
And now these past two or three weeks - and for a while yet - he is deep into painful, soul-searching but vital radiotherapy treatment as the specialists in Madrid attempt to zap the tumour into oblivion. Further surgery is not advised. (Sydney Morning Herald -- Sport)
Treatment Not Testicular Cancer Poses Greatest Risk To Survivors' Long-term Health Oct 16, 2009
"Gastrointestinal side-effects are common during both chemotherapy and radiotherapy and chemotherapy carries added risks like infections and blood clots. Long-term problems include secondary cancers, heart problems, and conditions related to lower hormone levels. "We believe that the best way to reduce the short and long-term health of survivors is to reduce the risk, by smoking cessation, physical activity and weight reduction, and to provide adequate follow-up for patients who could develop... (Science Daily)
Medical device makers see red over health care proposals Oct 12, 2009
1 billionProducts: Radiotherapy, stereotactic radiosurgery, and brachytherapy equipmentIntuitive Surgical Inc.2008 revenue: $875 millionProducts: Robotically assisted, minimally invasive surgery systemsDionex Corp.2008 revenue: $378 millionProducts: Instruments for chemical analysisAlign Technology Inc.2008 revenue: $304 millionProducts: System for treating teethOmnicell Inc.2008 revenue: $252 millionProducts: Medication control and patient safety devicesAccuray Inc.2008 revenue: $210... (San Jose Business Journal, CA)
Prediction model superior to traditional criteria in bladder treatment decision Oct 12, 2009
Prediction models could be used to personalize cancer treatment and replace many of the decisions that are currently made simply on the basis of cancer stage, including whether a patient receives surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy; how aggressively he or she is treated; the intensity of post-treatment follow-up; and eligibility for clinical trials. This study is one of the first to examine whether such 'personalized medicine' would actually lead to better outcomes for patients. (EurekAlert!)
Although more older women receive breast-conserving therapy, gaps in treatment exist Oct 10, 2009
Combined with radiotherapy, BCS is as effective as a mastectomy for treatment of early invasive breast cancer. Yet despite the large body of evidence supporting the efficacy of BCS, studies conducted in the last two decades reported that less than half of all surgically treated patients with nonmetastatic invasive disease received BCS.. (EurekAlert!)
Research Points To Potential Chink In Cancer's Armor Oct 7, 2009
Dr Ahmed said: "Our results indicate that one day it may be possible to treat cancer without the harmful side-effects so often associated with today's treatments. Our study has identified a cancer-specific target which could be selectively inhibited using small-molecules, or other means, without the use of radiotherapy and chemotherapy.". This laboratory-based work is still at a very early stage and the next step is to test a larger range of different cancer cell types and also to test normal... (Science Daily)
Focused Radiation Protects Tumor Patients' Brain Function Oct 7, 2009
Researchers recommend standard treatment with monitoring over whole-brain radiotherapy. HealthDay. (MEDLINEplus)
Mayo study finds radiotherapy effective Oct 6, 2009
A 20-year study by researchers at Mayo Clinic Florida has found radiotherapy to be an effective treatment for post-prostatectomy cancer patients ... studied treatment effects in men with recurrent prostate cancer who received salvage external beam radiotherapy ... The study findings, which appear in the October issue of Radiotherapy and Oncology, revealed that patients had lower rates of complications stemming from toxicity of the treatment than previously thought. (Jacksonville Business Journal, FL)
New Approach For The Treatment Of Malignant Brain Tumors Oct 3, 2009
Two studies recently conducted by the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) and the Radiation Therapy Oncology Group (RTOG) have shown that combined radiochemotherapy according to current standard practice does not yield better therapy results than radiotherapy alone. The NOA (Neurooncology Working Group) study has now also proven that chemotherapy alone after surgical removal of the tumor has an equivalent result. (Science Daily)
Concern over cancer patient care Oct 2, 2009
" Ms Hague said cancer patients would continue to receive "frontline" treatment such as radiotherapy and chemotherapy. "What will be missing is some of the support and advice that these nurses provided," she said. "What we're trying to do is see what we can put in place to minimise the impact on patients. "It's a big blow, we're really disappointed. We see that emotional support as a key part [of the treatment] for patients.". (BBC News -- UK)
Bethke at center of cancer care Oct 2, 2009
Patients can receive CT-scan guides, intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT), B-mode acquisition and targeting and portal imaging the same equipment that doctors say is available at major city hospitals. The center also includes genetic screening and testing, clinical trials, and gynecologic oncology services through affiliation with Brigham and Women s Division of Gynecologic Oncology. (Lincoln Journal, MA)
Community participates in health care 'conversation' Oct 1, 2009
His daughter, a nurse at Regions Hospital in St. Paul, learned of Cyberknife, defined on Wikipedia as a method of delivering radiotherapy, with the intention of targeting treatment more accurately than standard radiotherapy. Howard underwent four courses of the treatment at St. Joseph s Hospital in St. Paul, one of the few in the country to offer Cyberknife services, he said. (Menomonie Dunn County News, WI)
Few Side Effects Found From Radiation Treatment Given After Prostate Cancer Surgery Sep 30, 2009
29, 2009) The largest single-institution study of its kind has found few complications in prostate cancer patients treated with radiotherapy after surgery to remove the prostate. Men in this study received radiotherapy after a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test following surgery indicated their cancer had recurred ... Researchers say the findings from Mayo Clinic's campuses in Florida and Minnesota suggest that patients and their physicians should not overly worry about toxicity and side... (Science Daily)
Identification Of Highly Radiosensitive Patients May Lead To Side Effect-free Radiotherapy Sep 26, 2009
25, 2009) An international group of scientists has taken the first step on the road to targeting radiotherapy dosage to individual patients by means of their genetic characteristics, a radiation oncologist told Europe s largest cancer congress, ECCO 15 ESMO 34, in Berlin Sept. 24. Professor Dirk de Ruysscher, from Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, The Netherlands, said that his team s work might provide the basis for personalised radiotherapy in which, with a simple blood test,... (Science Daily)
Whole-brain Radiotherapy After Surgery Or Radiosurgery Not Recommended For Brain Metastases Sep 24, 2009
23, 2009) Whole-brain radiotherapy should not be given routinely to all patients whose cancer has spread to the brain, say researchers who found that using it after surgery or radiosurgery in patients with a limited number of brain metastases and stable cancer in the rest of the body did not extend lives or help patients remain functionally independent for longer ... Whole-brain radiotherapy is the standard treatment in patients with a single brain metastasis that is not suitable for surgery or... (Science Daily)
Hope over new skin cancer therapy Sep 24, 2009
Dr Toby Chave, a consultant dermatologist at Derriford hospital in Plymouth, said: "Up to this point advanced melanoma has been extremely difficult to treat and does not respond well to any existing chemotherapy or radiotherapy. "Prognosis is very poor. The new study shows that there is some response to the treatment which is very encouraging. (BBC News -- Health)
Killer prostate cancer test hope Sep 23, 2009
"The need for treatment varies greatly between patients - men with non-aggressive cancer can live with it for many years without needing therapy, while aggressive cancers require prompt treatment with combinations of surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy. "A marker molecule which identifies aggressive prostate cancer would help us target active treatment to patients who need it - avoiding unnecessary therapy, which can have side effects, to those who don't. " Jon Neate, chief executive of the... (BBC News -- UK)
Targeted Heat Therapy Offers New Standard Treatment Option For Soft Tissue Sarcoma Sep 23, 2009
Surgery is the primary treatment, but sometimes these tumours are difficult to remove completely, so they are often also treated with radiotherapy and sometimes chemotherapy ... All patients were given chemotherapy before and after surgery and radiotherapy. (Science Daily)
Head, Neck Cancer Treatment Often Not Completed Sep 23, 2009
"Surgical patients may be more likely to complete radiotherapy for several reasons," wrote Megan Dann Fesinmeyer, of the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle, and her research colleagues. "First, characteristics that make patients good candidates for surgery may also make them more likely to complete radiotherapy. Because comorbidities are known to decrease survival in patients with head and neck cancer, healthier patients may be chosen by surgeons to complete more rigorous... (MEDLINEplus)
Regulating The Regulators: New Therapeutic Approach Against Cancer Sep 22, 2009
Cancer is usually treated by surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy or a combination thereof. However, these approaches are not always effective and can have serious side effects. (Science Daily)
Expert calls for new cancer research priorities Sep 22, 2009
It is a huge untapped area with massive potential to make a difference," Prof Sullivan said. The growing scale of cancer in developing countries also presents an imminent challenge for cancer research, he said. More than half of all cancer diagnoses occur in developing countries, which will bear a large majority of the global burden before long. Keeping the research focus as it is in developed countries will not address the problem in the developing and transitional countries because drug... (EurekAlert!)
'Human Coral Reef' Man Free of Shell-Like Growths Sep 22, 2009
" But now, thanks to a year of treatment and surgery by doctors from a special skin clinic, he only has a few discolored patches of skin left to show. He may need radiotherapy for quite some time still but he has made very good progress," Dr. Liu Yinghong, vice president of Fuzhou Dermatosis Prevention Hospital said. His rare condition closely resembles that of Dede Koswara from Indonesia, who was dubbed the "tree man. Dede has been covered with the bark-like warts for more than 20 years. The... (Fox News)
Anticancer Nanotech: Protein Can Be Used To Carry Radioactive Isotopes To Cancerous Tumor Sep 22, 2009
21, 2009) Tiny particles of albumin, a protein found in the blood, can be used to carry radioactive isotopes to the site of a cancerous tumour in the body and so avoid many of the side-effects of conventional radiotherapy. See also. (Science Daily)
Researchers Home In on an Early Diagnostic Marker for Deadly Pancreatic Cancer Sep 19, 2009
Because pancreatic tumors are often resistant to chemotherapy or radiotherapy, "the only hope is that we can remove it surgically" at an early stage, says , an associate professor in the Division of Surgical Oncology at The Ohio State University Medical Center in Columbus. New hope for improved detection comes in the form of small RNA molecules called. (Scientific American)
The Many Causes Of Immune Deficiency Sep 18, 2009
g. cortisone, cytostatic drugs), radiotherapy, stress after surgery and malignant tumors of the bone marrow and the lymph nodes. Innate deficiencies of the immune system are comparatively rare. (Science Daily)
Space-related Radiation Research Could Help Reduce Fractures In Cancer Survivors Sep 18, 2009
We know that older women receiving radiotherapy to treat pelvic tumors are particularly vulnerable to fracture, with hip fracture rates increasing 65 percent to 200 percent in these cancer patients, said Bateman. Hip fractures are very serious; nearly one in four patients who fracture a hip will not survive a year. (Science Daily)
What Triggers Hair Loss? Sep 16, 2009
Major causes are immunosuppressant drugs, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Hair growth normally restarts when the therapy has finished. (Suite101.com)
'Watchful Waiting' Is A Viable Option For Prostate Cancer Patients With Low-risk Tumors, Study Finds Sep 15, 2009
"So we looked at the data they provided us at an average of eight years after their initial diagnosis, and compared it with data provided by prostate-cancer patients who had opted for aggressive treatment, such as surgery, radiotherapy or hormonal therapy. "We found that the deaths attributed to prostate cancer were very low among the men with low-risk tumors," explains Sanda. "Our analysis showed that only two percent of the men who deferred treatment eventually died of the disease, compared... (Science Daily)
Toward Cancer Control Sep 15, 2009
Then they subjected her to intensive radiotherapy, hoping that the X-ray bombardment would kill any residual cancer cells. But when cancer recurred at the operation site two years ago, and raised reddish, golf-ball-sized lumps on the flat area where her left breast had been, the doctors were stymied. (Time.com)
Survey Shows At-Risk Men Lacking In Prostate Cancer Knowledge Sep 11, 2009
(8) Tewari A, Raman JD, Chang P, Rao S, Divine G, Menon M. Long-term survival probability in men with clinically localized prostate cancer treated either conservatively or with definitive treatment (radiotherapy or radical prostatectomy) ... (9) Tewari A, Raman JD, Chang P, Rao S, Divine G, Menon M. Long-term survival probability in men with clinically localized prostate cancer treated either conservatively or with definitive treatment (radiotherapy or radical prostatectomy). (PR Newswire)
Centocor Ortho Biotech Receives FDA Complete Response Letter Regarding DOXIL(R) for the Treatment of Advanced Breast Cancer Sep 11, 2009
Recall reaction has occurred with DOXIL administration after radiotherapy. DOXIL may interact with drugs known to interact with the conventional formulation of doxorubicin HCl. (PR Newswire)
Beware of heartburn or Acid Reflux! Sep 8, 2009
The tumor has relative resistance to chemotherapy and radiotherapy so surgery remains the best form of treatment for both palliatation and cure. Therefore, it is most important to detect the problem as early as possible. (India Times, India)
New Treatment In Sight For Ovarian Cancer Sep 6, 2009
"Our research team has long hoped to be able to target radiotherapy in this way," says oncologist H. kan Andersson from Sahlgrenska University Hospital, who is leading the research alongside professor Ragnar Hultborn from the Sahlgrenska Academy and radiation physicist Lars Jacobsson. (Science Daily)
The lab blunder that stole a woman's fertility Sep 5, 2009
They said they needed to do a hysterectomy and that after that they would see whether I needed chemotherapy, radiotherapy or anything like that,'' the woman said. I asked if I had to have my ovaries removed, because I wanted to have more children, but they said everything needed to be removed. (Sydney Morning Herald -- Australia)
New Technique Offers Hope for Kids with Immune Deficiency Sep 4, 2009
In order to create space for the donor stem cells and prevent rejection, the patient usually undergoes chemotherapy, radiotherapy or both. This chemoradiotherapy can cause severe liver or lung damage, as well as hair loss and sickness. (MEDLINEplus)
Chemotherapy in Older Women with Breast Cancer Sep 3, 2009
However, the authors neglect to mention that adjuvant radiotherapy in patients with positive axillary nodes affects relapse-free survival. 2,3. (New England Journal of Medicine)
Nucletron Increases Full Year Outlook After Strong First Half 2009 Sep 3, 2009
Additionally, Nucletron launched its latest evolution in treatment planning for radiotherapy. Model-based segmentation in Oncentra MBS and volumetric modulated arc therapy with Oncentra VMAT ensure quality, while dramatically reducing the time needed to create treatment plans. (PR Newswire)
Weight Gain In Adulthood Associated With Prostate Cancer Risk; Patterns Differ By Ethnicity Sep 3, 2009
(June 27, 2006) Obesity in a patient is an independent predictor of whether localized prostate cancer will progress following radiotherapy treatment, say researchers at M. D. Anderson Cancer. . (Science Daily)
Wine may protect skin from harmful radiation Sep 2, 2009
"The possible protective effect of wine, which we assessed only in women with breast cancer, should also be evaluated in male and female patients with other types of tumors (e.g., prostate carcinoma) who are undergoing radiotherapy," she concluded. Copyright 2009 Reuters. (MSNBC -- Health)
Varian Medical Systems Adds RapidArc(R) and Image Guidance to New Low Energy Treatment Platform for Radiation Therapy in International Cancer Clinics Aug 31, 2009
Varian unveils UNIQUE(TM) radiotherapy offering at ESTRO meeting to make advanced cancer treatments more accessible and affordable. MAASTRICHT, The Netherlands, Aug. 31 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Varian Medical Systems (NYSE: ) is introducing the world's first low-energy radiotherapy system with image-guidance and RapidArc treatment capabilities for international cancer clinics ... Varian's UNIQUE(TM) radiotherapy system is expected to make advanced care more affordable and more widely available... (PR Newswire)
Accuray to Showcase CyberKnife Treatment Planning Capabilities at Preeminent Radiation Oncology Conference Aug 31, 2009
Aug. 31 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Accuray Incorporated (Nasdaq: ), a global leader in the field of radiosurgery, announced today that the company will showcase the treatment planning capabilities of the CyberKnife(R) Robotic Radiosurgery System at the 10th Biennial European Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology (ESTRO) Conference on Physics and Radiation Technology for Clinical Radiotherapy in Maastricht, The Netherlands. The latest generation of the MultiPlan(R) Treatment Planning... (PR Newswire)
Seeing the funny side when it's no joking matter Aug 29, 2009
The Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre called me up a few months back and asked if I could write a fun book that explained the radiotherapy process to kids about to undergo treatment, and I said: "Sure, a hilarious book about cancer that both educates and entertains, aimed at kids of just about every different age group - that sounds simple enough, just leave it to me." ... As part of my research for the book, I visited the Peter Mac hospital to learn all I could about radiotherapy - and my beloved... (Sydney Morning Herald -- Opinion)
Blood-flow Metabolism Mismatch Predicts Pancreatic Tumor Aggressiveness Aug 27, 2009
These findings may help explain the lack of success some patients experience with radiotherapy and chemotherapy, the researchers suggested. Komar said he was somewhat surprised by the results of the study since they did not expect to see such a clear correlation in such a small sample size. (Science Daily)
Kennedy fought aggressive cancer Aug 27, 2009
The hospital is one of only six centers in the United States that offers proton radiotherapy, according to the nonprofit National Association for Proton Therapy. The theory behind proton therapy is that its high-energy particles zone in specifically on the and so do not harm the surrounding healthy tissue as much as the X-ray photons in conventional therapy, said Dr. Donald O'Rourke, associate professor of neurosurgery at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine. (CNN)
Unlocking The Body's Defenses Against Cancer Aug 27, 2009
"Furthermore, the chemicals are non-poisonous and do not actually kill cells like conventional cancer therapies, such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy, so if we were able to develop a drug it is likely to have far fewer side-effects.". The team say the next stage of their research will be to find out exactly how the chemicals are able to increase the number of connections between cancer and normal cells. (Science Daily)
Ghana would face serious energy problems if... Aug 26, 2009
He also said the Commission was still awaiting parliamentary approval to secure funds for the upgrading of the existing Radiotherapy and Nuclear Medicine units in Korle-bu and Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospitals. Prof. (Ghana Web, Ghana)
New Technique Can Help Diagnose Mesothelioma Aug 26, 2009
"An earlier diagnosis also allows speedier interventions to relieve symptoms as well as initiation of other treatments such as chemotherapy or radiotherapy if appropriate. Claims for worker's compensation may also be instigated once the diagnosis is confirmed.". Exposure to asbestos is the main risk factor and accounts for the majority of mesothelioma cases. (Science Daily)
World's First Recipient of New Tongue, Jaw Smiles Aug 25, 2009
The man lost part of his face more than 10 years ago due to radiotherapy to treat an aggressive tumor. Cavadas said the patient will need to learn to eat and speak intelligibly again after more than a decade of not being able to, but he saw himself in a mirror and was so happy he smiled. (Fox News)
'Bends' treatment in cancer trial Aug 25, 2009
Oxygen treatment given to divers with decompression sickness may be able to help cancer patients suffering from the side effects of radiotherapy ... Doctors hope the treatment will alleviate unpleasant side effects associated with radiotherapy for cancer in the pelvic region ... Most patients return to normal within a few weeks of stopping radiotherapy, however about 30% develop long term problems that can interfere with their daily lives, including diarrhoea, stomach cramps and frequent bowel... (BBC News -- Health)
