
Abstracts: Cancer Watch August 1996
What follows below are abstracts of the various articles and pieces in the
print version of the August 1996 issue of Cancer Watch. For
details including four color illustrations please examine the print version.
- Helicobacter Pylori and Stomach Cancer
Abstract: Halicobacter pylori infection is now thought to be
strongly associated with stomach (gastric) and duodenal ulcers and a causative
factor for gastric cancer. However, duodenal ulcer is not a risk factor
for cancer. By contrast, it seems that duodenal ulcer patients have a lower
risk of developing gastric cancer.
- Screening for Helicobacter pylori
Abstract: Helicobacter pylori-associated stomach cancer may
be prevented by screening and treating the infected individual with appropriate
antibiotics. This strategy is expected to be cost-effective if the screening
is done at the age of 50 for the general population and after age 10 among
high-risk groups. A clinical trial is needed to establish the effectiveness
of this preventative strategy.
- Lipids And Cancer by John A. Kellen, M.D., Ph.D., FRCP (C)
Abstract: Among the endless number of factors which influence and contribute
to our potential in developing cancer, diet plays a definite role (which
is not recognized in full). Lipids are a major component, especially in
our "Western" diet and health implications of this are discussed.
- Meta-Analysis In Oncology by John A. Kellen, M.D., Ph.D., FRCP (C)
Abstract: Meta-analysis, as a source of definitive answers to clinical
questions, is glorified by some and profoundly mistrusted by others. The
pooling of results from several independent studies, in order to add statistical
weight, should save time and money and allow for more meaningful data. This,
of course, is tempting and has resulted in a torrent of meta-analyses.
- News on Prostate Diseases by Walter Alexander
Abstract: Scientific research reporter Walter Alexander brings information
from the 91st Annual Meeting of the American Urological Association and
the 32nd Annual Meeting of the American Society of Clinical Oncology on
prostate cancer. He reports on race difference in benign prostatic hypertrophy
(BPH) and the effects of androgen on prostate cancer.
- Our Doctors, Ourselves: A few thousand words of advice to patients from
a patient advocate
by Beverly Zakarian
Abstract: Beverly Zakarian, an author, cancer advocate and cofounder
of CANACT (Cancer Patients Action Alliance, the first activist cancer-patient
organization) writes about the importance of patient doctor relationship.
She gives suggestions and modalities involved in becoming a knowledgeable,
empowered patient in order to communicate effectively with doctors.
- A Note from the Editor on The Activist Cancer Patient
Abstract: The editor Dr. Mukti H. Sarma provides a review on the
book The Activist Patient by Beverly Zakarian. The editor warmly
recommends the book and concludes "The book is a must read for cancer
patients. Physicians, healthcare providers and general public at large will
also find the book compelling". It is published by John Wiley &
Sons.
- Prognostic Marker for Melanoma of the Eye
Abstract: Loss of one of the chromosomes from pair 3 is consistently
found in patients with metastatic melanoma of the eye and this knowledge
can be used as a prognostic factor in identifying this subgroup of patients
for closer observation and treatment.
- Technology Update: Three-Dimensional Holographic Microimaging
Abstract: The technology that produces three-dimensional real-life images,
holograms, is being increasingly used for nondestructive testing in biomedical
research. It allows the investigators to look into the internal organs in
humans without resorting to invasive procedures. Further advancement in
the technique will allow to look at the finer level of biomolecules, thus
helping to diagnose and plan treatment strategy for many diseases including
cancer.
- Ovarian and Breast Cancers: Advances in Therapy by Walter Alexander
Abstract: Scientific research reporter Walter Alexander brings information
from the 9th International Congress on Breast Disease and the 32nd Annual
Meeting of the American Society of Clinical Oncology on advances in chemo-
and hormonal therapy for ovarian and breast cancers. Among the topics discussed
are: combination therapy for ovarian cancer; Taxotere treatment for advanced
breast cancer; effect of other drugs such as Zoladex, Anastrozole.
- Sensitivity of Mammography Among Women Under 50
Abstract: Sensitivity to screening mammography is lower among women
of age below 50. This may be, in part, due to the rapid growth of tumors
in this group which become clinically apparent between screening when the
screening interval is the standard two years. Annual screening for this
group, though not recommended at present, may increase sensitivity.
- Predicting Survival for Gynecologic Tumors
Abstract: Women with gynecologic cancer who need optimal resection of
tumors may have cancerous spread in the peritoneal cavity. This spread often
indicates unfavorable prognosis no matter what the stage of the disease.
In the future oncologists should be able to devise proper treatment strategies
for this subgroup of gynecologic cancer patients.
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