Cancer News: Breast
Do mammograms reduce breast cancer mortality? The debate continues
In a 25-year follow-up report from a Canadian screening program, annual mammography did not reduce breast cancer mortality in women ages 40-59. This sparked further an ongoing debate on the common practice and its effects.
Bladder & breast cancer subtypes found genetically similar
A new discovery showed that invasive bladder cancer and some breast cancers have genetic similarities. This could lead to new therapies and diagnostic aids.
HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer treatment approved
The US FDA has approved trastuzumab emtansine (or T-DM1) for HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer treatment following trastuzumab and taxanes chemotherapy.
Potential targeted treatment in triple-negative breast cancer found
Researchers identified a protein that can be targeted for treating triple-negative breast cancer, the most aggressive form of the disease. More testing is necessary before trying this assumption in a clinical trial.
New breast cancer surgical guidelines for better outcomes released
A comprehensive consensus guideline for breast cancer surgery has been released by major societies, aiming to improve the course of treatment and reduce costs.
Personalized treatment promising for invasive lobular carcinoma
Invasive lobular carcinoma is the second most common type of breast cancer. Latest research shows it may be a good candidate for personalized treatment.
Breast cancer patients find relief in yoga after radiotherapy
Fatigue is a common side effect of radiation therapy. New research shows yoga helps breast cancer patients regulate stress hormones and overcome it more easily.
Breast cancer survival and vitamin D levels may be correlated
Research among more than 4,000 women showed that high levels of a vitamin D related metabolite could be correlated with 50% improved survival rates.
Breast cancer prognosis & treatment outcome predicted by new test
A new clinical test aims to predict survival but also the possible treatment failure for breast cancer patients. It could be available in two years.
Breast reconstruction after mastectomy becoming more common
A new study by researchers from US private practices and academic medical centers shows that more women are receiving breast reconstruction after mastectomies.
Radiotherapy after mastectomy benefits some breast cancer patients
Breast cancer patients, whose tumor has spread to just a few lymph nodes under their arm, may benefit if they have radiation therapy after mastectomy.
ER+ breast cancer hormone therapy better targeted by genetics
The benefit of 10-year vs 5-year hormone therapy for ER+ breast cancer was genetically analyzed, helping identify the women who should receive longer treatment.
Regular physical activity reduces breast cancer risk
According to researchers, women of any age can reduce the risk of breast cancer, by participating in physical activity every day, for an hour or more.
Breast cancer outcomes negatively affected by obesity & diabetes
Obesity & diabetes negatively affect outcomes in breast cancer patients who receive chemotherapy as primary treatment before surgery (neoadjuvant chemotherapy).
Targeted treatment offers hope for resistant gynecologic cancers
Women with a BRCA mutation, with gynecologic cancers which did not respond to other treatments, had improved outcomes & minimal side effects from an oral drug.
BRCA1 mutation carriers may have alternative to surgery
Women at high risk of breast and ovarian cancer due to BRCA1 mutation may be able to use already available drugs instead of undergoing irreversible surgery.
Invasive lobular breast carcinoma appropriate for personalized treatment
The 2nd most common breast cancer subtype is a unique disease and appears to be a good candidate for a targeted treatment approach, according to new research.
Experimental breast cancer drug improves disease control
A clinical trial for a breast cancer drug nearly doubled the time before disease got worse, but impact on overall survival was not shown to be significant.
Breast cancer risk not linked to fertility drugs
Women and their doctors are concerned that fertility treatments may increase possibility of breast cancer, but this was not confirmed at a large 30-year study.
Understanding breast cancer risk and pregnancy
Researchers are beginning to understand how pregnancy can reduce breast cancer risk, by comparing genetic materials of women who had and had not given birth.
Radiotherapy for breast cancer increases risk of lung cancer
The risk of developing a primary lung tumor for women who had radiotherapy for breast cancer increases with the radiation amount, according to researchers.
Breast cancer lumpectomy repetition not needed with tissue test
No repeat lumpectomy will be needed in 96% of cases, based on unique lab testing during the operation, which will enable surgeons remove all cancerous tissue.
New drug and information on triple negative breast cancer
A new compound active against triple-negative breast cancer has been developed, which offers increased scientific understanding of this very aggressive cancer.
Predicting breast cancer recurrence and treatment response
A new non-invasive blood based test can detect breast cancer recurrence and may also predict treatment outcomes. It is based on 10 breast-cancer specific genes.
Breast cancer risk increased by high saturated fat diets
Women who eat a lot of fat (saturated fat in particular), may be at higher risk of certain breast cancer types, as per research on this controversial topic.
Breast cancer treatment often results in unemployment
Nearly 1 in 3 breast cancer survivors who were working when they began treatment, were unemployed 4 years later, especially if they received chemotherapy.
Advanced breast cancer patients who sleep better survive longer
A new study indicates that sleep disruption may lead to weaker immune function or impaired hormonal stress responses. The mechanism remains unclear, however.
Breast cancer: 17 'high-priority' chemicals may cause the disease
Scientists have identified 17 "high-priority" chemicals that women should avoid in order to reduce risk of breast cancer, and show how to detect their presence.
Obese breast cancer patients may have higher risk of death
A new study associated obesity with a 34% higher risk of death in pre-menopausal women with early breast cancer susceptible to higher hormone estrogen levels.
Can psychological intervention reduce breast cancer stress?
Breast cancer patients can benefit from a brief, 5-week psychological intervention after surgery, in dealing with the stress of the diagnosis and operation.