DNA In Blood May Tell How Long A Pancreatic Cancer Patient Has Left To Live
Pancreatic cancer has the highest death rate of all major cancers. This type of cancer is expected to become the second leading cause of cancer-related death in the U.S. by the year 2030, surpassing colorectal cancer. A simple blood test may be able to predict the survival chances of patients with pancreatic cancer and help doctors choose the best treatment.
If Tumor Is Found In Patients Blood, The Prognosis Is Worse
Sorbonne University scientists discovered that the prognosis for patients is far worse if tumour DNA is found in their blood. Authors of the study, Jean-Baptiste Bachet, MD, PhD, from the Gastroenterology and Digestive Oncology Department at Sorbonne University, and the Centre Universitaire des Saints-Pères, both in Paris, France, looked at tests of 35 pancreatic cancer patients, those without tumour DNA lived between 19 and 32 months, compared to just six months for those with the DNA.
"Our study confirms the strong prognostic value of the presence of tumour DNA and of its level, when detected, in advanced pancreatic cancer. Our results demonstrate the utility of circulating biomarkers in sub-classifying cancers and managing treatment," Bachet said.
Dr Batchet added that they "need to confirm these results in prospective clinical trials to better assess the predictive value of this biomarker in light of the dynamic biological changes that occur during treatment."
Pancreatic Cancer Is A Silent Killer
In the UK, 75 percent of pancreatic cancer patients couldn't name a single symptom. Diagnosis can mean the difference between a tumour that is treatable with surgery and one that isn't. In its early stages, it can be misdiagnosed as gall stones, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, gastritis or hepatitis.
Symptoms of pancreatic cancer includes: Yellow skin or eyes and / or itchy skin; unexplained weight loss; abdominal pains, especially at the top of the abdomen; bowel changes such as oily, floating feces.
The 2017 Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame Nominees: Tupac Shakur, Pearl Jam, Journey - Who Will Actually Bag It?
The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame has announced nominees for 2017 inference, including first-timers Tupac Shakur, Pearl Jam, Journey, Jane's Addiction, Electric Light Orchestra, Depeche Mode, Joan Baez, Bad Brains, and Steppenwolf.
Aspirin Slows Tumor Growth In Pancreas And Colon
Aspirin has been known to have many benefits. Now it has a new benefit, as aspirin slows tumor growth in the pancreas and colon.
New App From Vodafone Australia and Garvan Institute Seeks To Speed Up Cancer Research
A new app from Vodafone Australia and Garvan Institute of Medical Research aims to speed up research with the help of a user's smartphone.
Fasting Diet Miracle: 5-Day Calorie Restriction Lowers Risk For Major Diseases
Researchers are calling a healthy fasting diet a miracle due to its amazing capability of lowering major chronic diseases including cancer and diabetes. A specifically designed diet that mimics fasting could be the answer to all our health problems.
General Vaccine For Cancer Not Likely
The search for a general cure for cancer is still being done. A general vaccine for cancer is not yet likely.
Cancer Patients: Quality Of Life Could Improve Through Walking
Cancer patients are usually at low energy and are staying on their beds, preventing any excessive physical activities. However, a new study suggests that patients with advanced cancer should walk at least 30 minutes every other day. During a trial to 42 patients that was divided into two groups, those that were having walking session improved their quality of life.
The Role of Technology in Education in 2019
2019 is proving to be another great year for trends in educational technology. There are many upcoming trends that seem to have a bearing on the future of the sector with respect to technology.
New Retroreflective Material Could be Used in Nighttime Color-Changing Road Signs
BUFFALO, N.Y. -- A thin film that reflects light in intriguing ways could be used to make road signs that shine brightly and change color at night, according to a study that will be published on Aug. 9 in Science Advances.