Current Cancer Treatment Research Articles

The impact of curative cancer treatment on sexual health – clinical results from the EORTC QLQ-SH22 validation study

BackgroundThe European Organization of Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) has recently developed and validated a patient-reported outcome measure (PROM) for sexual health (SH) in cancer patients. Here, we present results from a secondary analysis of the EORTC QLQ-SH22 validation study. The objective was to investigate the impact of cancer treatment on SH over the disease trajectory into survivorship in patients who underwent curative treatment.MethodsParticipants completed the EORTC QLQ-SH22 and the EORTC QLQ-C30 assessing SH and Quality of Life. We analyzed differences in SH of patients on active cancer treatment compared to patients off-treatment (cross sectional group comparison) as well as changes in SH during the course of treatment (from pre-treatment to follow-up).ResultsOur sample consisted of n = 394 (66.2% females) curatively treated cancer patients with 34% of patients being on-treatment and 66% of patients being in their follow-up after primary treatment (off-treatment group). Compared to patients off- treatment, patients on active cancer treatment experienced less sexual satisfaction (p = .021, Cohen’s d = .36) and libido (p < .001, d = .60) and had higher levels of fatigue (p < .001, d = .50). Importance of sexual activity, masculinity and femininity did not differ between groups. Treatment effects on sexual activity decreased with treatment completion (p < .001, d = .50). Patients undergoing intensified treatment (chemotherapy, radiation, or endocrine treatment) reported more treatment effects (subscale EORTC QLQ-SH22) compared to patients undergoing surgery only.ConclusionOur results highlight the negative impact of oncological treatment on SH and how increasing treatment intensity further impair SH. Sexual satisfaction and libido improve after treatment completion while other aspects (e.g. masculinity/femininity) do not change during survivorship. We suggest monitoring of SH from the start of cancer treatment on and beyond into survivorship using PROMs as part of routine cancer care. Routine monitoring allows systematic identification of patient’s SH problems and may improve awareness as well as target intervention for those in need of care.

Assessment of Optimal Treatment Strategies and Their Outcomes in T3N1 Rectal Cancers.

Background:This study compares the outcomes of a surgery first vs a neoadjuvant treatment strategy in T3N1M0 rectal cancers. Methods:This was a single-centre retrospective cohort study of patients admitted for curative treatment of T3N1 rectal cancer. Patients with pre-treatment T3N1 and pathological T3N1 disease were included in the study. Patients were divided into two groups depending on whether they had surgery or neoadjuvant therapy as their initial phase of treatment. Primary outcome measures were local recurrence and distant recurrence. Secondary outcomes were disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS). Tabulated results were analyzed with appropriate statistical tests. Results:One hundred and ten patients were initially selected. Fourty-eight were finally included after excluding patients who did not meet the staging criteria or were not eligible for curative treatment. Twenty-nine patients underwent surgery, and 19 patients with neoadjuvant therapy as their first treatment. No local recurrence was noted in either group, with a distant recurrence noted in group 2 (6.9%) and group 1 (5.26%) cases among the surgery-first and neoadjuvant-first groups, respectively. Disease-free survival and overall survival were 29.5 and 30 months for the surgery-first group and 22 and 22 months for the neo-adjuvant group, respectively. Conclusions:Outcomes in the surgery-first group were non-inferior to that of the neoadjuvant group. A threatened circumferential resection margin (CRM) on pretreatment staging warrants neoadjuvant therapy to ensure an R0 resection. Extramural vascular invasion (EMVI), being a negative prognostic factor, doesn't preclude a surgery-first approach.

Oncologic outcomes and trends in each colon cancer location and stages over the last two decades: insights from the SEER registry.

The main purpose of the study is to comprehensively evaluate population-level survival disparities stage-by-stage, according to specific anatomical colon segments, and based on prognosis as defined by lymph nodes among patients who have undergone curative resection for non-metastatic colon cancer. The study was conducted from the Surveillance Epidemiology and End Result (SEER) program from the USA. Patients who underwent surgery for colon adenocarcinoma between 2000 and 2019 were identified. Demographics and clinical and pathologic factors were compared amongst each other according to different colon segments, stages, and time periods. A total of 482,672 patients were identified and 195,105 of them met the inclusion criteria. Patients with proximal cancers were significantly older, more likely to be female, had a higher number of lymph nodes, and node positivity (p < 0.001). During the study period, an almost 10% improvement in overall survival rate was observed at 3 and 5years for each colon site and stage (p < 0.05). The study's findings revealed a notable improvement in overall and cancer-specific survival rates across all colon segments and stages in patients who underwent curative treatment for non-metastatic primary colon cancer from a nationwide database.

P261 A Phase 1b-2 study of chemoradiotherapy combined with Nivolumab and Ipilimumab as bladder sparing curative treatment for muscle Invasive bladder cancer: The CRIMI study

P261 A Phase 1b-2 study of chemoradiotherapy combined with Nivolumab and Ipilimumab as bladder sparing curative treatment for muscle Invasive bladder cancer: The CRIMI study

Understanding the Anticancer Properties of Honey

Uncontrolled cell growth that possesses the capacity to exhibit malignant behavior is referred to as cancer. The cytotoxic drugs used to fight cancer are associated with several adverse effects and are not always readily available or affordable, especially in developing countries. These issues are in addition to the shortcomings of the current cancer treatment regimen. According to growing research, honey is not cytotoxic to normal cells but is highly and particularly cytotoxic to tumor cells, suggesting that honey may display anticancer effects. Research has shown that honey affects a number of cell signaling pathways; however, at the moment, the precise method is not completely known.

Molecular docking, DFT and antiproliferative properties of 4-(3,4-dimethoxyphenyl)-3-(4-methoxyphenyl)-1-phenyl-1H-pyrazolo[3,4-b]pyridine as potent anticancer agent with CDK2 and PIM1 inhibition potency.

Due to the limited effeteness and safety concerns associated with current cancer treatments, there is a pressing need to develop novel therapeutic agents. 4-(3,4-Dimethoxyphenyl)-3-(4-methoxyphenyl)-1-phenyl-1H-pyrazolo[3,4-b]pyridine (3) was synthesized and Initially screened on 59 cancer cell lines showed promising anticancer activity, so, it was chosen for a 5-dose experiment by the NCI/USA. The GI50 values ranged from 1.04 to 8.02 μM on the entire nine panels (57 cell lines), with a GI50 of 2.70 μM for (MG-MID) panel, indicating an encouraging action. To further explore the molecular attributes of compound 3, we optimized its structure using DFT with the B3LYP/6-31 + + G(d,p) basis set. We have considered vibrational analysis, bond lengths and angles, FMOs, and MEP for the structure. Additionally, pharmacokinetic assessments were conducted using various in-silico platforms to evaluate the compound safety. A molecular modeling study created a kinase profile on 44 different kinases. This allowed us to study our compound's binding affinity to these kinases and compare it to the co-crystallized one. Our findings revealed compound 3 exhibited better binding for half of the tested kinases, suggesting its potential as a multi-kinase inhibitor. To further validate our computational results, we tested compound 3 for its inhibitory effects on CDK2 and PIM1. Compound 3 exhibited an IC50 of 0.30 µM for CDK2 inhibition, making it five times less active than Roscovitine, which has an IC50 of 0.06 µM. However, compound 3 demonstrated slightly better inhibition of PIM1 compared to Staurosporine. These findings suggest that compound 3 is a promising anticancer agent with the potential for further development into a highly active compound.

Assessing the Impact of the Prostate Cancer Patient Empowerment Program (PC-PEP) on Relationship Satisfaction, Quality of Life, and Support Group Participation: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

Background/Objectives: The Prostate Cancer Patient Empowerment Program (PC-PEP) is a 6-month, home-based intervention aimed at enhancing mental health in men undergoing curative prostate cancer treatment. This exploratory secondary analysis evaluates PC-PEP's impact on relationship satisfaction, quality of life, and support group attendance among partnered participants. Methods: In a crossover randomized clinical trial ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03660085) of 128 men aged 50-82 scheduled for curative prostate cancer surgery or radiotherapy, 119 participants in relationships were included. Of these, 59 received the 6-month PC-PEP intervention, while 60 were randomized to a waitlist-control arm, receiving standard care for 6 months before starting PC-PEP. The intervention included daily emails with video instructions on mental and physical health, diet, social support, fitness, stress reduction, and intimacy. Outcomes were assessed using the Dyadic Adjustment Scale (DAS) and the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Prostate (FACT-P). Results: While relationship satisfaction remained stable, a significant improvement in emotional well-being was observed at 12 months in participants undergoing radiation therapy (p = 0.045). The PC-PEP intervention also led to significantly higher support group attendance at both 6 months (p = 0.001) and 12 months (p = 0.003), emphasizing its role in fostering social support and community engagement. Conclusions: The PC-PEP program effectively maintains relationship satisfaction and enhances emotional well-being, particularly in patients with fewer physical side effects. Its design promotes comprehensive care by integrating physical, psychological, and social support, making it a valuable resource for improving the quality of life in prostate cancer patients and potentially applicable to other cancer types.

Dysbiosis of the Upper Gastrointestinal Tract in Head-and-Neck Cancer Survivors: A Pilot Study Using the Capsule Sponge Device

Background: A non-endoscopic capsule-sponge device allows sampling the entire length of the esophagus. Here, we compared microbiomes of the oral cavity, esophagus, and gastric corpus collected by oral swab, capsule-sponge device, and endoscopic biopsy, respectively, in patients representing three distinct risk profiles for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). Methods: The study enrolled 11 patients with esophageal squamous intraepithelial neoplasia, 21 patients after curative treatment for head and neck squamous cell cancer (HNSCC) (HNSCC survivors), and 40 patients with functional dyspeptic (FD) symptoms. Microbial genomic DNA was analyzed using 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing. Results: The Shannon index of the capsule-sponge sample microbiota was significantly higher in FD group than in patients after treatment for HNSCC, and the Chao index of gastric samples differed between HNSCC survivors and FD patients. Analysis of the β-diversity of FD patients, HNSCC, and esophageal squamous intraepithelial neoplasia showed that different genera formed at each location. The abundance of 205, 116, and 9 genera differed between FD patients and HNSCC survivors in the gastric, capsule-sponge, and oral samples, respectively; 33 genera differed between the FD group and patients with esophageal squamous intraepithelial neoplasia in capsule-sponge samples. Conclusions: The bacterial communities of the upper digestive tract were clustered according to the anatomic site. Despite substantial differences in gastric and esophageal microbiota samples between FD patients and HNSCC survivors, the microbial members and diversity showed small differences between FD patients and those with esophageal squamous intraepithelial neoplasia. It remains unclear whether gastric and esophageal dysbiosis is associated with or is a consequence of treatment for HNSCC.

Loss of miR-200c-3p promotes resistance to radiation therapy via the DNA repair pathway in prostate cancer

Radiotherapy represents a major curative treatment for prostate cancer (PCa), but some patients will develop radioresistance (RR) and relapse. The underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood, and miRNAs might be key players in the acquisition and maintenance of RR. Through their encapsulation in small extracellular vesicles (EVs), they can also be relevant biomarkers of radiation response. Using next-generation sequencing, we found that miR-200c-3p was downregulated in PCa RR cells and in their small EVs due to a gain of methylation on its promoter during RR acquisition. We next showed that its exogenous overexpression restores the radiosensitivity of RR cells by delaying DNA repair through the targeting of HP1α. Interestingly, we also observed downregulation of miR-200c-3p expression by DNA methylation in radiation-resistant lung and breast cancer cell lines. In summary, our study demonstrates that the downregulation of miR-200c-3p expression in PCa cells and in their small EVs could help distinguish radioresistant from sensitive tumor cells. This miRNA targets HP1α to delay DNA repair and promote cell death.

A new potential strategy for cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma treatment by generating serum-based antibodies from tumor-exposed mice.

Current cancer treatment strategies continue to face significant challenges, primarily due to tumor relapse, drug resistance, and low treatment efficiency. These issues arise because certain tumor cells adapt to the host immune microenvironment and evade the immune system. This study presents a new cancer immunotherapy strategy using serum-based antibodies from mice exposed to mouse cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (mCSCC). The experiment was conducted in three stages. In the first stage, mCSCC cells were isolated and expanded cultured from DMBA/TPA-induced mCSCC. In the second stage, these expanded tumor cells were injected into healthy mice to stimulate the production of anti-tumor antibodies. In the final stage, therapeutic serum was extracted from these healthy mice and reintroduced into the tumor-bearing mice. An ELISA assay was utilized to analyze the levels of p53, Bcl-xL, NF-κB, and Bax. The results showed that the serum treatment not only reduced tumor volume but also reversed changes in p53, Bcl-xL, NF-κB, and Bax. In conclusion, this study developed a new immunotherapeutic strategy for treating mCSCC. However, further research is needed to fully comprehend the mechanism of this serum treatment.

A new potential strategy for cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma treatment by generating serum-based antibodies from tumor-exposed mice

Current cancer treatment strategies continue to face significant challenges, primarily due to tumor relapse, drug resistance, and low treatment efficiency. These issues arise because certain tumor cells adapt to the host immune microenvironment and evade the immune system. This study presents a new cancer immunotherapy strategy using serum-based antibodies from mice exposed to mouse cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (mCSCC). The experiment was conducted in three stages. In the first stage, mCSCC cells were isolated and expanded cultured from DMBA/TPA-induced mCSCC. In the second stage, these expanded tumor cells were injected into healthy mice to stimulate the production of anti-tumor antibodies. In the final stage, therapeutic serum was extracted from these healthy mice and reintroduced into the tumor-bearing mice. An ELISA assay was utilized to analyze the levels of p53, Bcl-xL, NF-κB, and Bax. The results showed that the serum treatment not only reduced tumor volume but also reversed changes in p53, Bcl-xL, NF-κB, and Bax. In conclusion, this study developed a new immunotherapeutic strategy for treating mCSCC. However, further research is needed to fully comprehend the mechanism of this serum treatment.

Prognostic value of PSMA PET in predicting long-term biochemical control following curative intent treatment for prostate cancer.

The aim of this study is to investigate the prognostic value of 68Ga-labelled prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) positron emission tomography (PET) metrics in predicting long-term biochemical failure-free survival (BFFS) following curative intent treatment for prostate cancer. We completed a prospective study that followed men who had PSMA PET for staging of newly diagnosed prostate cancer between 2015 and 2017 who went on to have curative intent treatment with radiotherapy (RT) or radical prostatectomy (RP). PSMA PET CT imaging was reported and the intraprostatic maximum standardised uptake value (SUVmax) was recorded. The primary outcome was BFFS. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics, Cox proportional hazards (PH) models, Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and a regression tree structured method. A total of 183 men were included in the analysis with a median age of 66 years and the majority of patients (55.2%) had ISUP grade 1-3 disease. All patients had PSMA PET staging prior to curative intent treatment with RP (66.1%) or external beam radiotherapy (33.9%). PSMA-avid pelvic nodes were present in 26 patients but were not associated with worse biochemical control. A PSMA SUVmax of the prostate primary greater than the median (>5.6) was associated with a lower BFFS (HR: 4.4, 95% CI 1.42-3.72, P = 0.01). A multivariate Cox model incorporating initial biopsy grade, age and PSMA SUVmax showed that PSMA SUVmax was an independent predictor of BFFS. The RT-structured method identified an optimal threshold of 6.8 for PSMA SUVmax, above which patients with ISUP 1-3 disease had a significantly worse BFFS. PSMA SUVmax is a strong predictor of BFFS in patients with non-metastatic prostate cancer who underwent curative intent treatment. Patients with low-risk disease on biopsy (ISUP 1-3) but high PSMA SUVmax may have biochemical failure risk analogous to higher-risk disease (ISUP 4-5). These findings allow for further risk stratification and prognosis of patients with newly diagnosed prostate cancer planned for definitive treatment.

The use of focal therapy for the treatment of prostate cancer in Canada: Where are we, how did we get here, and where are we going?

Focal therapy is an emerging treatment for localized prostate cancer. The objectives of this review were to: 1) review how focal therapies are regulated and approved; 2) summarize the scope and quality of the literature regarding safety, efficacy, and side-effects; and 3) outline ongoing clinical trials of focal therapy in Canada. Using the PRISMA framework for scoping reviews, we searched PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane from 2021-2024, complementing Hopstaken et al's search up functional and oncologic outcomes. Additionally, we examined the FDA database for regulatory details and ongoing trials in Canada via ClinicalTrial.gov. FDA approval for prostate tissue ablation was granted to high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) in 2015 via the de novo pathway; other therapies followed the 510(k) route, citing equivalence to predicate devices. Most studies are in early stages, primarily single-arm, prospective cohort designs. Oncologic outcomes like cancer detection and survival rates, alongside functional data, such as adverse events and erectile function, were assessed. Recurrence-free survival at 48 months ranged from 58-92%, pad-free rates were greater than 95%, and rates of new-onset erectile dysfunction were variable, ranging from no change to 50%. Rates of serious adverse events (SAEs) were low, ranging from 0-14%. Three Canadian clinical trials are actively enrolling participants, and five private clinics were found offering private HIFU, irreversible electroporation (IRE), or transurethral ultrasound ablation (TULSA). Focal therapy technologies have gained regulatory approval for prostate tissue ablation, and, aside from provincial support for cryoablation in Alberta, are available to Canadians through private payment or clinical trials. Many studies demonstrate promising cancer control and impressive functional outcomes but are limited by their short followup and lack of comparator group. Clinical trial or registry participation should be prioritized to ensure an evidence-based integration into current prostate cancer treatment approaches.

Promising Novel Heterocyclic Drug Candidates: Synthesis, Characterization, DFT Calculations and In Silico Investigations of Anticancer Behaviors

In recent years, the inadequacy and high costs of current cancer treatment drugs have led to an increase in research focused on the design and synthesis of new compounds with potential applications in this field and the evaluation of their anticancer properties using in silico methods. For this purpose, four novel heterocyclic compounds (6–9) were synthesized and characterized using spectroscopic techniques. The DFT approach and B3LYP/6-311G(d,p) basis set were used to compare theoretical data with experimental ones and to obtain optimized geometries. It was observed that experimental and theoretical data were in harmony. In silico techniques were used to investigate the potential of synthesized compounds as drug candidates. ADMEt results have shown that all synthesized compounds have Lipinski’s rule of five which has searched criteria in drug candidates. Molecular docking studies were also performed against cancer-related proteins. The highest docking score between 2XIR protein and compound 8 was found to be −11.7 kcal/mol, while the lowest was −8.2 kcal/mol between 1MP8 protein and compound 9. To do meaningful comparisons standard drugs were also used in Molecular Docking studies. It was observed that all synthesized molecules had higher docking scores than standard drugs except ifebemtinib. It can be suggested that based on ADMET and molecular docking studies compound 8 has the potential to be a drug candidate after further investigations such as in vitro, in silico, etc., have been performed in this area.

Cancer genetic counseling in Chile: Addressing barriers, confronting challenges, and seizing opportunities in an underserved Latin American Community.

IntroductionDespite the rapid advancements in genomics and the enactment of a new cancer law in Chile, the implementation of cancer genetic counseling continues to face significant challenges due to limited resources and infrastructure. MethodsWe conducted a survey targeting healthcare providers who offer genetic counseling to cancer patients and possess training in genetics and counseling. Additionally, we distributed a separate survey to high-risk patients associated with an advocacy group to gather insights on their perceptions of and experiences with cancer genetic counseling. ResultsAmong the surveyed providers, 21% were non-medical professionals who developed their skills through postgraduate continuing education programs. Germline testing was not performed in 47% of cases. Among the participants, 37% considered genetic counseling important for understanding the cause of their cancer, 25% valued knowing their risk of developing future tumors, and 33% believed it would benefit their current cancer treatment. Just over half of the patients (54%) had access to genetic counseling. Among those that received genetic counseling, 85% found it beneficial. ConclusionIn Chile, barriers to genetic counseling persist, particularly in rural areas and due to a shortage of trained professionals. Public policies recognizing genetic counseling's importance are crucial, along with expanding training and infrastructure. Understanding patient perceptions and increasing the number of trained genetic counseling into cancer care, educating clinicians, and advocating for increased access are key steps for enhancing cancer treatment effectiveness in Chile.

Latest findings in chemotherapy.

Radiotherapy and surgery are the two pivotal curative treatments for cervical cancer. Although cervical cancer is relatively sensitive to chemotherapy, chemotherapy is not included in the curative treatment of cervical cancer and has a role in limited medical conditions. Chemotherapy used to treat cervical cancer can be divided into four categories: (1) preceding chemotherapy (neoadjuvant chemotherapy) to augment the effects of radical therapy (surgery or radiation therapy), (2) chemotherapy administered concurrently with radiation therapy, and (3) adjuvant chemotherapy administered after radical therapy. In addition, (4) chemotherapy is used to prolong survival and alleviate symptoms in patients who cannot be radically cured. Recently, molecular targeted agents, angiogenesis inhibitors, and immune checkpoint inhibitors have been incorporated into existing chemotherapy regimens. This review summarizes these trends along with the history of chemotherapy for cervical cancer.

Further assessment of structural and social determinant of health effects on breast cancer care timelines: A qualitative study.

121 Background: Time to treatment (TTI) delays result in increased morbidity and mortality for cancer patients. These treatment delays disproportionately occur within marginalized communities due to structural challenges with social determinants of health (SDoH), disengagement with the healthcare system and limited or low health literacy that impacts their ability to obtain timely, appropriate care. We conducted semi-structured interviews with patients treated for breast cancer about their care treatment trajectories to further understand barriers and facilitators for timely treatment from the patient perspective. Methods: We conducted semi-structured interviews with 30 patients in 2023 who received curative intent breast cancer treatment at Montefiore Medical Center from 2019 to 2023. Interviews addressed barriers and facilitators of timely TTI, perceived timeliness and salience of timeliness, emotional well-being, and perceptions of the healthcare team and communication. We analyzed interviews using framework analysis. Results: A total of 30 patients were interviewed (mean age 58.9 year ± 10.6, 75% Non-Hispanic Black, 25% Non-Hispanic White). The median TTI was 52.5 days (49, 62 IQR). First treatment modality included surgery (75%) and chemotherapy (25%). Many participants found significant emotional and logistical support through family, social networks, religion, and connecting with survivors. Several patients faced transportation issues hindered their ability to adhere to schedules, childcare challenges, and difficulty managing numerous appointments, with some wishing transportation services had been offered at diagnosis. Some participants experienced unique cancer presentation, required clearances, involvement of non-oncologic providers and consultants, and time for decision-making about treatment options that may have contributed to delays. Some patients faced financial burdens including personal expenses, family support needs, and difficulties accessing third-party assistance (i.e., short-term disability, Supplemental Security Income). Some patients valued mental health counseling and other resources like group therapy and social workers, though some wished for earlier, more specialized support, indicating gaps in the support timeline. A few patients expressed preference for longer TTI that afforded them time to make important decisions and seek opinions. Conclusions: The study revealed that many patients faced logistical, emotional, and informational challenges while awaiting treatment and highlighted a need for more tailored assistance and timely interventions. Findings from our work highlight the need for further study on how healthcare systems can better equip and engage patients early in the care timeline to avoid delayed TTI.

Analysis of progression-free and overall survival in ovarian cancer: Bevacizumab treatment outcomes using historical cohort.

Background: The incorporation of bevacizumab, a monoclonal antibody targeting vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), has redefined therapeutic strategies for advanced ovarian cancer. This study evaluates the efficacy of bevacizumab combined with standard chemotherapy by comparing progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) outcomes with a historical cohort of patients treated with standard chemotherapy alone. Methods: We conducted an analysis of 71 patients with advanced epithelial ovarian cancer treated at the University Clinical Center in Niš, Serbia, from April 2017 to March 2023. All patients received standard chemotherapy paired with bevacizumab and were monitored for progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) using Kaplan-Meier estimates. Subgroup analyses were performed based on age, ECOG performance status, presence of metastases, and pleural effusion. Additionally, a historical cohort of 30 patients treated with standard chemotherapy alone was used for comparison, and Cox regression analysis was conducted to identify factors influencing treatment outcomes. Results: The study findings indicate significant improvements in median PFS (20 months vs. 15 months) and OS (58 months vs. an undetermined upper limit) compared to the historical cohort. Subgroup analysis of the bevacizumab-treated group revealed that younger patients (<65 years) and those without metastases or pleural effusion exhibited notably better survival outcomes. The hazard ratio for PFS in patients younger than 65 was 0.65 (95% CI: 0.45-0.93), suggesting a substantial reduction in disease progression risk compared to older patients. Conclusion: Bevacizumab, when used alongside standard chemotherapy, significantly extends both PFS and OS in patients with advanced ovarian cancer. These benefits are particularly pronounced in younger patients. The results underscore the necessity of integrating bevacizumab into the treatment regimen for advanced ovarian cancer, advocating for tailored therapeutic strategies based on individual risk profiles and clinical characteristics. This study reinforces the pivotal role of bevacizumab in enhancing the current ovarian cancer treatment landscape and highlights the potential for further personalizing oncological care.

THE POTENTIAL OF GINGEROL ACTIVE COMPOUNDS IN ZINGIBER OFFICINALE AS ANTI-CANCER AGENTS

Cancer is a type of chronic disease which is the main cause of death in the world with 19.3 million new cases in 2020. Current cancer treatment includes surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, hormone therapy, antiangiogenesis inhibitors, stem cell therapy, and others. Long-term cancer treatment can cause other health problems, so alternative anti-cancer therapy with the fewest side effects is needed. One natural ingredient that is known to prevent and act as anti-cancer therapy is Zingiber officinale. Zingiber officinale contains gingerol which functions as an anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-cancer, anti-tumor and anti-mutagenic. The anticancer effects of gingerol are known to be effective in cancers of the liver, stomach, mouth, prostate, breast and ovaries. This literature aims to delve deeper into the role of gingerol as an anti-cancer compound. The strategy employed in the article search involved using electronic databases such as Google Scholar and PubMed. Keywords utilized included "cancer," "red ginger," "gingerol," "Zingiber officinale," and "anticancer." The articles selected were those published within the last 10 years. The study results indicate that gingerol is beneficial in oral, breast, lung, colorectal, cervical, and prostate cancers. The mechanism of action of gingerol involves pathways such as the PI3K/AKT, JAK/STAT, apoptosis, and ROS proliferation pathways. Gingerol is known to be effective as an anti-cancer agent and has the potential to become one of the alternative anti-cancer treatments.

The meaning-making process in the re-entry phase: A qualitative focus group study with patients treated for breast cancer or melanoma

Purpose After completion of curative cancer treatment patients enter the re-entry phase, which is characterized by the task to pick up life again. While having to resume their former roles, patients experience the loss of normality and face existential concerns. A sense of meaning and purpose may help in dealing with changes in life and existential concerns. The aim of this study is to gain insight in the meaning-making process of patients treated for breast cancer or melanoma in the re-entry phase in order to develop an intervention to support picking up life after a long treatment process including systemic treatment. Methods We conducted six focus groups with 16 patients (11 breast cancer and five melanoma) to explore their experiences, challenges, and sources of meaning during the re-entry phase. The re-entry phase was defined as the point from completion of surgical and systemic treatment (except for hormonal therapy) up to 18 months in remission. A thematic content analysis was performed by two researchers. Results We identified four themes pertaining to patients’ use of sources of meaning in the meaning-making process: (1) use of existing, helpful sources; (2) distress due to impacted sources; (3) search for new sources; and (4) use of adapted or new sources. When patients drew upon existing sources of meaning that had been impacted by cancer and the aftermath of treatment, they experienced distress. This could instigate a search resulting in adapted, strengthened, or new sources of meaning. Conclusions Meaning-making in the re-entry phase is a versatile process involving the use of existing sources of meaning, and a search for, or use of new, strengthened, or adapted sources of meaning. An intervention increasing patients’ awareness of their sources of meaning might strengthen the meaning-making process of patients treated for breast cancer or melanoma.