Suffering from ‘Chemo Brain’? There’s Hope
Some of the most common symptoms experienced by cancer patients are memory problems, difficulties with multitasking, and reduced attention and concentration. Historically, cancer patients with these symptoms were often diagnosed with depression. Research over the past decade has revealed that many cancer patients experience such symptoms as a consequence of specific damage to the brain […]
Cancer Patients Face Uncertainty as Coronavirus Cripples Hospitals
Above photo: National Cancer Institute, www.cancer.gov. Photo by Rhoda Baer The federal government has encouraged health centers to delay nonessential surgeries while weighing the severity of patients’ conditions and the availability of personal protective equipment, beds and staffing at hospitals. People with cancer are among those at high risk of complications if infected with the […]
Although rare, autonomic neuropathy can result from chemotherapy
DEAR MAYO CLINIC: After six months of chemotherapy, I developed autonomic neuropathy. I have been done with chemotherapy for a few months, but the neuropathy has not gone away. Is there a chance it could be permanent? ANSWER: Autonomic neuropathy can be a rare side effect of certain chemotherapy drugs. Because it is rare, and […]
Beyond Chemo
Immunotherapy treatments rev up immune system to fight cancer Six years ago Henry Kawell, then 72, heard news that rerouted his life: He had a tumor growing in his right lung. His oncologist ordered the tumor removed via surgery, but there was more cancer in the lining of Kawell’s lung. He underwent two years of chemotherapy and could […]
Researchers discover how immune cells resist radiation treatment
whatdoctorsknow.com Researchers at The Tisch Cancer Institute at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai have discovered a key mechanism by which radiation treatment (radiotherapy) fails to completely destroy tumors. And, in the journal Nature Immunology, they offer a novel solution to promote successful radiotherapy for the millions of cancer patients who are treated […]
Study examines aggressive end-of-life care
Source: University of North Carolina School of Medicine Advanced cancer patients receive aggressive care at high rates at the end of life In the last month of their lives, younger cancer patients continued to be hospitalized and receive other aggressive treatment at high rates, a University of North Carolina Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center-led study found. […]
Treatment plan for pancreatic cancer unique to each individual
Mayo Clinic Q&A DEAR MAYO CLINIC: How do doctors determine whether or not chemotherapy or surgery is appropriate for treating pancreatic cancer? Why do some people with a late-stage diagnosis have treatment, while others are told treatment will not help their situation? ANSWER: The treatment plan for each individual with pancreatic cancer is unique to […]
Radiation therapy no longer routinely used for ovarian cancer
DEAR MAYO CLINIC: My mother was diagnosed with stage III ovarian cancer a few weeks ago. She had surgery and is about to begin chemotherapy, and I’ve read that sometimes chemo is more effective if it is given directly in the abdomen. Is this commonly done, and should I ask her doctor about it? Also, […]
