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B3 vitamin form may aid in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease.

February 26, 2024 blogadmin Comments 0 Comment

Over 10 million individuals worldwide suffer from Parkinson’s disease. For now, there is no treatment for Parkinson’s disease. Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+), an energy molecule, has been the subject of research for a few years as a potential treatment for the illness. A high dose of NR, a form of vitamin B3, has been shown in a phase 1 clinical trial to help raise NAD+ levels in Parkinson’s disease patients. Parkinson’s disease clinical symptom improvement may be linked to NR supplementation. According to research, Parkinson’s disease affects over 10 million people worldwide, making it the second most common neurodegenerative illness after Alzheimer’s. For now, there is no treatment for Parkinson’s disease. Through the various stages of the disease, symptoms are managed with medication, lifestyle modifications, and occasionally surgery. In recent years, scientists have also investigated nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+), a crucial molecule that aids in the body’s energy production, as a potential Parkinson’s disease treatment.

Previous studies indicate that NAD+ deficiency may be present in Parkinson’s patients, and raising NAD+ levels may be beneficial. According to a phase 1 clinical trial, giving patients with Parkinson’s disease high dose supplements of nicotinamide riboside (NR), a precursor to NAD+ and a source of vitamin B3, increased their whole blood NAD+ levels and expanded their NAD+ metabolome. These findings may be linked to a reduction in their clinical symptoms. It is still early in the research process, so it cannot be definitively established that supplementing with NR will alleviate Parkinson’s disease symptoms. The journal Nature Communications published the study not too long ago. As stated by Prof. “NR is a form of vitamin B3 and a precursor of NAD+,” says co-lead author Charalampos Tzoulis, a professor of neurology and neurogenetics at the University of Bergen and Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway. According to Dr. Tzoulis, who spoke with Medical News Today, NAD+ is a necessary coenzyme that is involved in a number of biological functions, such as DNA repair, regulation of gene expression, and mitochondrial function—the cell’s powerhouses that handle energy.

He continued, “Research has demonstrated that aberrant energy metabolism, resulting from dysfunction in the mitochondria, occurs in the brain of individuals with Parkinson’s disease and is thought to contribute to the onset and advancement of the disease.”. Dr. NAD+ levels typically decrease with age, according to Daniel Truong, a neurologist who is the medical director of the Truong Neuroscience Institute at MemorialCare Orange Coast Medical Center in Fountain Valley, California, and the editor-in-chief of the Journal of Clinical Parkinsonism and Related Disorders. Truong was not involved in this study. According to Dr. Truong, energy metabolism, mitochondrial function, anti-aging, and DNA repair are a few possible applications and advantages of NR. According to certain studies, NR may have neuroprotective qualities. The ChromaDex External Research Program (CERPTM) funded this study by donating Niagen®, a patented NR ingredient from ChromaDex, to further the research.

Twenty people with idiopathic Parkinson’s disease participated in the phase 1 clinical trial. Over four weeks, participants were given a daily dose of either 3,000 mg of NR in the form of an oral supplement or a placebo. Following that, an ECG, clinical and molecular measurements, and the MDS-UPDRS rating scale were used to evaluate study participants’ degree of Parkinson’s disease symptoms. Compared to patients who received a placebo, researchers observed that NR significantly raised NAD+ levels and altered the NAD+ metabolome in whole blood. The Movement Disorder Society Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (MDS-UPDRS) was used to measure clinical symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, and the study’s findings indicate that high-dose NR was both safe and well-tolerated by study participants. These findings suggest that increasing NAD+ levels may have a symptomatic anti-Parkinson’s effect. According to Dr. Tzoulis, the study demonstrated that a high dose of NR 3 gr [grams] per day of treatment is safe for a month when used short-term and could therefore be investigated in longer-term clinical trials. It is important to emphasize that our study does not prove that this NR dose is generally safe or that taking it for longer than 30 days is safe. Longer-term research is still needed to determine this.

Furthermore, he added, the study demonstrated that taking NR 3 gr daily causes a significant rise in blood NAD levels and associated metabolites without having any negative metabolic effects after 30 days. He did, however, issue a warning, stating that even though the study found a slight clinical improvement linked to NR treatment, this cannot be taken to indicate a clinical effect because the purpose of the study was not to find a clinical improvement. This study’s primary goal was to ascertain the 3,000 mg NR daily’s short-term safety. We must investigate higher-dose regimens in order to fully utilize NR’s therapeutic potential, according to Dr. Tzoulis. The short-term safety of 3,000 mg NR daily is established by this study, opening the door for future therapeutic trials to investigate high-dose options. He continued, “We look forward to the results from our year-long NO-PARK phase 2/3 study on 400 persons with Parkinson’s disease, which is already ongoing at our Center and estimated to conclude by the end of 2024, as conclusive proof on the therapeutic potential of NR in Parkinson’s disease.”. You can view public information about the NO-PARK study at clinicaltrials.gov and neuro-sysmed.com.

Movement disorders neurologist Dr. Rocco DiPaola of the Hackensack Meridian Neuroscience Institute at Jersey Shore University Medical Center told MNT that after reading this study, his initial impression is that it offers a possible treatment that might help slow the progression of Parkinson’s disease. Neuroprotection is a treatment that may help avoid some of the long-term complications associated with advancing disease, but there [are] currently no treatments that offer this. To prove safety, the current study was conducted on a small scale and for a brief period of time. It would take a large-scale trial with [a] longer treatment duration to confirm safety and a neuroprotective benefit. Dr. Truong concurred, pointing out that while the results are encouraging, larger, longer-term trials—especially double-blind ones—are necessary to duplicate and build upon this one study’s findings. He went on, “I find the study’s suggested mechanism of action, which involves raising NAD+ levels and possibly having neuroprotective effects, to be quite intriguing.”. They would like to know how this could be incorporated, taking patient tolerance and safety profile into account, into the current Parkinson’s disease treatment protocols. Dr. Truong continued, “Any possible new therapeutic avenue is of interest given the current status of treating Parkinson’s disease.”. Particularly alluring is the notion of a supplement that might lessen clinical symptoms and even stop the course of the illness.

REFERENCES:

https://www.parkinsons.org.uk/news/more-research-shows-potential-benefits-vitamin-b3-parkinsons
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/nr-vitamin-b3-parkinsons-disease-symptoms-study
https://www.parkinsons.org.uk/news/vitamin-b3-supplement-shows-early-promise-parkinsons
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8245760/

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Early meal consumption can lower the risk of cardiovascular disease.

February 26, 2024 blogadmin Comments 0 Comment

Eating the first and last meals of the day earlier can help prevent heart disease, according to research. According to them, consuming breakfast before 8 a.m. m. & the final one before 9 p.m. m. can reduce the chance of heart problems. They also say that women experience a greater reduction in risk than men do. A recent study that was published in the journal Nature Communications suggests that eating meals earlier can lower the risk of cardiovascular disease. Researchers examined data from 103,389 adults who took part in the NutriNet-Santé study, with a median age of 42. We obtained medical records through the UK Biobank database. Dietary records included details about the timing of meals and the total number of times an individual ate in a given day. The average follow-up period for the study was approximately 7 years.

The following results were noted by the researchers in relation to meal timings between 8 a.m. m. and nine p.m. Postponing breakfast was linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Cerebrovascular disease increased by 6% for every hour that a delay was allowed to persist. having dinner after nine o’clock in the evening. m. was linked to a 28% increased risk of cerebrovascular illness compared to individuals who ate before 8 p.m. m. There was no discernible extra risk connected to the frequency of eating. Eating an earlier evening meal instead of delaying breakfast was linked to a 7% lower risk of cerebrovascular disease for every hour that was spent fasting at night. The researchers also noted that women were more significantly affected than men by the variations in negative associations with the timing of the final meal of the day. According to research, your circadian rhythms play a crucial role in regulating your appetite and burning calories, as stated by Tatiana Ridley, a holistic nutritionist, yoga instructor, and health coach who was not involved in the study.

ccording to her explanation to Medical News Today, circadian rhythms are cyclic endogenous built-in biological patterns that follow a 24-hour cycle and control the timing of physiology, metabolism, and behavior. When your meal timings don’t correspond with your body’s clock, hormones that store fat may be elevated, leading to weight gain. A Circadian Rhythm Diet is based on when breakfast, lunch, and dinner should be eaten. Having said that, I believe that timing meals should be taken into account in relation to our general health. The findings, according to the researchers, are consistent with the theory that consuming one’s first and last meals earlier in the day and fasting for a longer duration at night may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. According to Virginia-based dietician and diabetes educator Caroline Thomason, RD, CDES, who was not involved in the study, fasting is not a one-size-fits-all solution. It is true, in my experience, that some people are not naturally hungry for breakfast. Fasting is a valid approach to eating times, she told Medical News Today, as long as there are no unfavorable effects, like overindulging at night because you skipped breakfast. According to Thomason, the most important advice he gives his patients is to recognize when they are forcing themselves to eat by the clock despite discomfort, extreme hunger, or low energy. For those who don’t naturally enjoy skipping breakfast, research even suggests that it can increase cortisol levels and stress levels.

You limit your eating to specific times of the day when you practice intermittent fasting. According to UC Davis Health, the theory behind this strategy is that by doing this, our bodies will be able to access our fat stores for energy more quickly and effectively. The most direct sources of energy are glucose and carbs; in the absence of glucose, we burn fat. The researchers advise having your first meal of the day by 8 a.m. and your last meal by 8 p.m. m. They did not mention intermittent fasting specifically, but one version of this strategy is skipping meals for a full 12-hour period. According to registered dietitian nutritionist Anne Danahy, who was not involved in the study, numerous studies conducted over the years have found that time-restricted eating, also known as intermittent fasting, has benefits for the metabolism, specifically for insulin, blood sugar, cholesterol, and weight improvements. The fact that this massive study’s results also point to a lower risk of stroke and heart disease is fantastic. According to Danahy, Medical News Today, “I frequently recommend fasting for at least 8 to 10 hours each day.”. It’s as easy as skipping dinner, and a lot of people are shocked at how much just that one small adjustment can improve their mood. A simple strategy to control the extra calories that accumulate from late-night snacking is to fast for eight to ten hours. It frequently results in slightly less weight loss and improved blood sugar regulation. Many people also discover that They sleep better at night when they avoid eating late (as it lessens acid reflux). Danahy also pointed out that a number of studies, including this one, have demonstrated greater advantages to eating dinner earlier and extending the fasting window later in the day and overnight. I concur, but a lot of people find it difficult to implement due to work and family obligations. Front-loading your diet—eating a hearty breakfast and lunch, finishing your dinner with something light (a smoothie, a small serving of protein with vegetables, or soup)—and making an effort to finish by 7 p.m. m. the latest. Naturally, the caliber of your diet also matters, she added. If you eat a lot of junk food while adhering to a rigorous fasting schedule, you won’t experience the benefits. A plant-forward or Mediterranean-style diet is ideal, and you should aim to allow your body to recuperate between dinner and breakfast the following day.

REFERENCES:

https://www.inrae.fr/en/news/eating-meals-early-could-reduce-cardiovascular-risk
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/eating-meals-early-can-reduce-cardiovascular-disease-risk
https://www.healthline.com/health-news/eating-meals-earlier-in-the-day-may-decrease-cardiovascular-risk
https://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/news/20240103/timing-of-meals-can-affect-risk-of-heart-disease-study-finds

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Researchers discover new protein connected to dementia with early onset.

January 5, 2024 blogadmin Comments 0 Comment

Researchers at the Medical Research Council (MRC) Laboratory of Molecular Biology in Cambridge, UK, have disproved earlier theories regarding frontotemporal dementia by discovering a novel protein called TAF15 that forms aggregated structures in cases of the illness. This finding adds something new to the small list of proteins known to aggregate in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s. This discovery not only opens the door to more sophisticated diagnostic methods and therapeutic approaches, but it also raises the intriguing possibility that TAF15 is connected to both motor neuron disease and frontotemporal dementia, providing new insights into these crippling conditions. The majority of neurodegenerative diseases, including dementia, are caused by proteins that aggregate into filaments called amyloids. Most of the time, researchers have identified the specific proteins that cause this aggregation, which allows them to concentrate on these proteins for diagnostic evaluations and treatment planning. Nevertheless, the precise protein causing frontotemporal dementia has not yet been identified by researchers in about 10% of cases. Researchers have now successfully determined the TAF15 protein’s aggregated structures in these specific instances.

The brain’s frontal and temporal lobes, which control emotions, personality, behavior, language comprehension, and speech, begin to degenerate with frontotemporal dementia. Compared to Alzheimer’s disease, this disorder usually shows symptoms earlier in life and is often diagnosed in people between the ages of 45 and 65. That can, however, also manifest in people of all ages. Scientists have discovered aggregated protein structures in their latest work, which could be a central point for future developments in diagnostic evaluations and treatments. Now that the essential protein and its structure have been found, scientists can concentrate on using it to identify and treat this particular type of frontotemporal dementia. This strategy is similar to those that are currently being used to target tau and amyloid-beta protein aggregates, which are characteristic characteristics of Alzheimer’s disease. The researchers examined protein aggregates in the brains of four patients suffering from this type of frontotemporal dementia at the atomic level resolution using sophisticated cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) techniques. Up until now, researchers have linked this kind of dementia to other neurodegenerative illnesses and believed that a protein called FUS was in charge of aggregation.

The MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology researchers were able to ascertain that the protein aggregates present in every brain had the same atomic structure by employing cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM). Remarkably, TAF15, a different protein, rather than FUS, was the guilty party. The researchers explained that this result was unexpected because, up until this study, neither the structural properties of TAF15 nor its involvement in the formation of amyloid filaments in neurodegenerative conditions had been identified. Through insights that were previously unattainable with earlier technologies, cryo-EM is revolutionizing our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying dementia and neurodegenerative diseases in a broader context. The complexity of cryo-electron microscopy, the researchers admitted, restricted their analysis to the brains of just four people. However, there is a chance that we will be able to develop instruments for screening hundreds of patient samples in order to determine the degree of these aberrant protein aggregates, now that we have a better understanding of the pivotal protein and its structure. A progressive loss of muscle control is a characteristic of motor neuron disease, which is also experienced by some people with frontotemporal dementia. In this study, two people with both conditions gave their brains for examination.

In these instances, the TAF15 protein was found in aggregated form in brain areas linked to motor neuron disease, according to the researchers. It is possible that TAF15 plays a role in the development of both frontotemporal dementia and motor neuron disease because two people who had both conditions had identical TAF15 aggregates. The investigators are currently investigating whether patients with motor neuron disease who do not show frontotemporal dementia symptoms have these aberrant TAF15 aggregates. This study further examined the possibility that additional abnormal proteins may be contributory to the neuropathological process of fronto temporal lobar degeneration and dementia (FTLD), stated James Giordano, PhD, MPhil, Pellegrino Center Professor of Neurology and Biochemistry at Georgetown University Medical Center. Giordano was not involved in this research and told Medical News Today. The investigation, which was well-conducted, examined the presence and amount of TAF protein, a variant abnormal protein constituent. TAF protein, along with other known abnormal proteins (like characteristic tau and alpha-synuclein entities), are found in and contribute to the neurodegenerative processes of frontotemporal dementia (FTLD). Dr. According to Giordano, this study importantly demonstrated that TAF protein is also present in the total proteinopathic constituency of the, albeit at a somewhat lesser concentration.

The results of the study further support and advance aspects of the amyloid hypothesis of neurodegenerative dementia, according to Dr. Giordano. He added that the discovery of the TAF variant might be a useful diagnostic marker in addition to a possible therapeutic target for the management of FTLD. Jennifer Bramen, M.D. D. Frontotemporal lobe dementia (FTD) is an emotionally taxing illness for which there is no known treatment, according to a senior research scientist at the Pacific Neuroscience Institute in Santa Monica, California, who was not involved in this study. Dr. Bramen came to the conclusion that FTD is a heterogeneous disease, which makes research on it more difficult. Increased patient treatment options may result from a deeper comprehension of various subtypes.

REFERENCES:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/scientists-find-new-protein-linked-early-onset-dementia
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2023/12/231206115845.htm
https://www.mcknights.com/news/clinical-news/scientists-identify-protein-linked-to-early-onset-dementia/
https://www.sciencealert.com/unexpected-protein-linked-to-early-onset-dementia-in-huge-discovery

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Supplements containing cocoa extract have been shown to improve older adults’ cognitive function.

January 5, 2024 blogadmin Comments 0 Comment

According to a recent randomized controlled trial, older adults who eat a poor-quality diet may benefit cognitively from taking daily supplements of cocoa extract. The authors found that older adults who regularly ate a high-quality diet showed no cognitive benefit from cocoa extract. Flavanols, which are abundant in cocoa, may reduce inflammation and oxidative stress. There is still need for more investigation into the possible cognitive advantages of cocoa. According to a recent study, older adults with routinely poor diet quality may benefit cognitively from taking daily cocoa extracts. Daily doses of cocoa extract did not appear to improve cognitive function in any of the study participants. The authors of the study note a borderline trend for people with inadequate diets, though. The COcoa Supplement and Multivitamin Outcomes Study (COSMOS), a randomized clinical trial (RCT) carried out at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts, comprised the clinical cohort of participants in this study. The benefits of taking a daily multivitamin-mineral supplement for cancer prevention and a daily cocoa extract supplement for cognitive function were examined in this larger trial, which involved 21,442 older Americans.

A portion of the research’s funding came from Mars Edge, an entity under Mars Inc. committed to the study of nutrition. Among the other donors were the U. S. The FDA, Pfizer Consumer Healthcare, Harvard Catalyst, Contract Pharmacal Corp., and the National Institutes of Health. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition publishes the findings. The authors claim that there has been inconsistent research on the impact of cocoa on cognitive health. The small effect observed in this study for individuals with poor diet quality points to a need for more investigation. There were 573 older participants in the study, with a mean age of 69.6. Women made up 49.2 percent of this group. At the start of the study, each participant received a thorough cognitive evaluation, and over the following two years, they underwent follow-up testing. A daily supplement containing 500 mg of cocoa extract, which included 80 mg of the antioxidant epicatechin, was given to certain study participants, while control participants were given a placebo. A total of 492 individuals finished the two-year evaluations. After two years, no improvement in cognition was seen in the group as a whole. Specifically, those taking cocoa supplements showed no improvement in executive function, attention, episodic memory, or global cognition when compared to those receiving a placebo. Flavanols, a subclass of flavonoids that are naturally occurring in plants, fruits, and vegetables, are abundant in cocoa. Our trial results provide insight into the cognitive benefits of cocoa extract, said Dr. Chirag M. Vyas, the study’s first author.

The mechanism through which flavanols may improve cognition in individuals with poor diets is not explained by the study, but Dr. Vyas proposed the following theory: by lowering oxidative stress and inflammation, cocoa flavanols may improve cognitive function outcomes in older adults with poor diet quality. Studies have linked systemic levels of inflammation linked to cognitive aging and elevated oxidative stress in older adults with poor diets. Dr. According to Vyas’ theory, eating cocoa flavanols may lessen cognitive stressors and may also be influencing other neuroprotective processes. Over the course of a 12-week follow-up period, a 2021 trial found that cocoa flavonoids had a positive impact on cognitive aging. In addition to other plant compounds, nutritionist Kristin Kirkpatrick, who was not involved in the study, told MNT I advise clients to get plenty of flavonoids. and frequently suggest dark and cocoa chocolate as a fantastic choice with a wide range of culinary applications. Dr. According to Vyas, more investigation is required to clarify the weak link found in the study. Regarding the distinction between cocoa extract and actual cocoa or chocolate, Dr. Vyas replied, There is no simple answer to this question.. Due to compositional differences, the precise effects of chocolate, cocoa powder, and extract on cognitive health may differ, according to him. For instance, a particular compound is isolated to produce cocoa extract.

Even though the COSMOS cocoa extract supplement contains all of the naturally occurring bioactive components of the cocoa bean, we were unable to evaluate the effects of various formulations, separate cocoa extract components, or varying cocoa flavanol concentrations in this trial on cognitive benefits. According to Kirkpatrick, if someone is interested in the flavonoid benefits of cocoa beans, they should consume dark chocolate that is at least 75% cacao or use pure cocoa in their regular meals and snacks, such as topping applesauce or oatmeal with it. would supply that. Customers should search for that 100 percent cocoa, as pure raw cocoa usually contains no added sugar or fat, according to Kirkpatrick. You can use cocoa in a variety of ways, like adding it to yogurt or creating desserts like chocolate mousse. she continued. Dr. Vyas stated that he is not sure if he would advise consuming cocoa to improve cognitive function. According to the results of our trial, using supplements containing cocoa extract did not appear to improve cognitive function overall in older adults, he said. He is hesitant to guarantee a significant benefit just yet, even though the study indicates that older individuals who do not follow a healthy, balanced diet may benefit from consuming cocoa. Notwithstanding these encouraging results, more research is necessary to fully comprehend how cocoa flavanols affect cognition, particularly in more diverse populations and among those with lower-quality diets.

REFERENCES:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/cocoa-extract-supplement-improves-cognition-older-adults
https://medicalxpress.com/news/2023-12-cocoa-supplement-benefits-cognition-older.html
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2023/12/231207151255.htm
https://www.healthline.com/health-news/cocoa-extract-may-help-reduce-risk-of-cognitive-decline-in-older-adults

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Medication for weight loss, like Ozempic and Wegovy, may lower the risk of colorectal cancer.

December 13, 2023 blogadmin Comments 0 Comment

According to research, some type 2 diabetes medications used for weight loss may also help reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. Diabetes and obesity both increase the risk of colorectal cancer. Reducing the risk of colorectal cancer can be achieved by controlling diabetes, getting regular screenings, and maintaining a healthy weight. A recent study published in the journal JAMA Oncology suggests that a class of type 2 diabetes medications, which includes weight loss medications like Wegovy and Ozempic, may also help prevent colorectal cancer. By reducing blood sugar, boosting insulin production, and delaying stomach emptying, these medications—known as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists, or GLP-1 RAs—help control diabetes and promote weight loss, according to research. Case Western Reserve University researchers were interested in seeing if these medications could lower the risk of colorectal cancer because obesity and diabetes are risk factors for the disease, which is the second leading cause of death from all cancers and the third most common type among adults in the US. Over a 15-year period of study data, the researchers found that individuals treated with GLP-1 RAs had a 44 percent lower risk of colorectal cancer than other type 2 diabetics receiving insulin treatment.

Furthermore, the GLP-1 RA treatment group exhibited a 25% reduced risk of colorectal cancer in comparison to the metformin treatment group. According to Dr. Daniel Landau, a medical oncologist, internal medicine specialist, hematologist, and expert contributor for The Mesothelioma Center in Florida who was not involved in the study, the precise cause of diabetes’s significant risk for colorectal cancer is still unknown. Theories include the following: excessive tissue exposure to endogenous sugars fosters an environment in which cancers can grow; diabetes frequently coexists with other risk factors like obesity; and inflammation is linked to cancer. How well diabetes treatment reduces the elevated risk of cancers has not been well-established, Landau told Medical News Today. Since the discovery of GLP1-Ras, there has been evidence to suggest that these treatments may be superior to other medications in lowering the risk of colorectal cancer in diabetic patients. Landau hypothesized that these specific drugs may be more effective at causing weight loss and that their longer-acting nature may contribute to their superior efficacy when it comes to preventing colorectal cancer when compared to other type 2 diabetes medications. Dr. Wael Harb, a hematologist and medical oncologist at MemorialCare Cancer Institute, stated that the study offers a potentially revolutionary breakthrough in understanding the connection between diabetes treatment and cancer prevention.

I find these preliminary results encouraging as a physician in the biopharma industry,” Harb told Medical News Today. It’s important to stress that these are preliminary findings, and before they are taken into consideration for clinical application, they must be validated through larger, more thorough studies. Dr. The study’s findings, according to Anton Bilchik, a surgical oncologist, chief of medicine, and director of the Gastrointestinal and Hepatobiliary Program at Saint John’s Cancer Institute in California, are significant and thought-provoking not only for their possible application but also for their ability to advance our knowledge of colorectal cancer in general. According to Bilchik, who did not participate in the study, these medications are being used more frequently because of their significant impact on weight loss, Medical News Today reported. Scientists may be able to learn more about the cause of colorectal cancer if this study results in a decrease in the disease’s development through independent mechanisms. The greatest strategy to lower your risk of colorectal cancer, regardless of medication use, is to prevent type 2 diabetes and obesity, maintain a healthy weight, and schedule routine checkups with your doctor. According to estimates, roughly two-thirds of U. S. Adults either have obesity or are overweight. The American Cancer Society estimates that there are over 52,000 deaths and approximately 150,000 new cases of colorectal cancer each year.

The third most common cancer in the world and in the United States is colorectal cancer. S. Dr. Misagh Karimi, a medical oncologist at the City of Hope Orange County Lennar Foundation Cancer Center in California who specializes in gastrointestinal cancers, stated that rates are rising among those under the age of 50. Karimi, who was not involved in the new study, told Medical News Today that eating a healthy diet high in fruits and vegetables, being physically active, limiting alcohol consumption, and not smoking tobacco are all important ways to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. It’s critical to follow your doctor’s recommendation and get screened for colorectal cancer because early detection can make a huge difference.

REFERENCES:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/weight-loss-drugs-such-as-wegovy-and-ozempic-may-help-reduce-colorectal-cancer-risk
https://www.healthline.com/health-news/ozempic-wegovy-and-other-glp-1-drugs-may-reduce-colorectal-cancer-risk
https://www.everydayhealth.com/weight/weight-loss-drugs-like-ozempic-tied-to-increased-risk-of-severe-stomach-problems/

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Can wasabi improve an older person’s cognitive health?

December 13, 2023 blogadmin Comments 0 Comment

Cognitive function and the brain are often impacted by aging. There are foods and spices that are known to improve brain function. Wasabi, also known as Japanese horseradish, has been shown by Tohoku University researchers to have potential benefits for improving specific aspects of cognitive function in older adults. Many changes occur in the body as we age, both internally and externally. This also applies to cognition, or the brain’s capacity for information processing and memory. Common signs of age-related cognitive decline include difficulty finding the right word to say when speaking, forgetting where you put things, and slower problem-solving. Numerous lifestyle factors can help people preserve their cognitive health as they age, according to prior research. Among them is maintaining a nutritious diet. Additionally, studies have demonstrated the brain-boosting properties of certain foods, including kale, eggs, oily fish, and berries. It has also been discovered that certain spices, such as ginger, saffron, cinnamon, and turmeric, can enhance brain function. Recently, wasabi, a spice that is typically used as a condiment in Japanese cuisine, has been linked to improved cognitive function in older adults, according to research from Tohoku University in Japan. The journal Nutrients published the study not too long ago.

Native to Japan and parts of Russia and Korea, wasabi is also referred to as Japanese horseradish. It belongs to the family Brassicaceae, which is also made up of arugula, radish, and horseradish. Since wasabi is a rhizome, its roots are used and it grows underground. The wasabi root is typically grated to create a fresh paste. The scent and slight spice of freshly grated wasabi are reminiscent of horseradish or hot mustard. Scholars have examined the possible advantages of wasabi in human subjects, animal models, and cell culture. Previous studies suggest that wasabi may offer various health advantages. These include high vitamin C levels that support the immune system, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial qualities, protection against neurodegenerative diseases, support heart health, aid in weight loss, improve gut health, boost bone health, improve sleep and fatigue, and have anticancer properties.

Researchers gathered 72 Japanese adults, ranging in age from 60 to 80, for this study. For a period of 12 weeks, study participants were instructed to take either a placebo tablet or a wasabi tablet containing 0.8 mg of 6-methylsulfinyl hexyl isothiocyanate (6-MSITC), the plant’s primary bioactive ingredient, before going to bed. Cognitive and memory tests measuring working memory, attention, processing speed, and episodic memory were administered to participants both before and after the 12-week period. At the end of the trial, the researchers discovered that, in comparison to those who took a placebo tablet, those who took the wasabi supplement containing 6-MSITC significantly improved in both working and episodic memory performances. The researchers did not discover any appreciable gains in other cognitive domains, though.

REFERENCES:

https://www.psychiatrist.com/news/wasabi-may-offer-a-spicy-solution-for-boosting-brain-power/
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/wasabi-found-to-boost-brainpower-in-seniors
https://www.sciencealert.com/wasabi-boosts-cognitive-ability-in-older-people-study-shows
https://www.news-medical.net/news/20231031/Spicing-up-memory-Wasabi-found-to-boost-brainpower-in-seniors.aspx

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Are there long-term risks associated with common high blood pressure medications?

December 9, 2023 blogadmin Comments 0 Comment

The presence of high blood pressure alone may increase the chance of developing a number of chronic health issues. Long-term medication use is common in the management of high blood pressure, and this may come with certain health risks. Three drugs that are frequently used to treat high blood pressure were found to have a similar link with cardiovascular mortality in a recent study. Additionally, the findings suggested that angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors might raise the risk of stroke. Many aspects of health can be enhanced by managing high blood pressure over the long term. People can occasionally manage their blood pressure without taking medicine. On the other hand, a number of over-the-counter drugs can help with long-term care. In a recent study, people taking one of three popular blood pressure medications were examined for mortality as well as a number of other health outcomes (JAMA Network). Regardless of the type of medication, the researchers found that the mortality risk from cardiovascular disease was similar among the over 32,000 high blood pressure participants in their analysis. Subsequent data analysis, however, revealed that using ACE inhibitors as opposed to diuretics increased the risk of both fatal and nonfatal stroke by 11%. The findings suggest that more investigation is required to ascertain the possible risk of drugs such as ACE inhibitors.

Blood pressure, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), is the force of blood pressing against your artery walls. Your body’s arteries transport blood from your heart to different areas. Excessive blood pressure can lead to a number of complications, including heart attack, stroke, heart failure, and vision loss. People can alter their lifestyles to control high blood pressure by exercising frequently, consuming less alcohol, and consuming less sodium. To help maintain blood pressure in a healthy range, many high blood pressure sufferers take medication. Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, calcium channel blockers, and thiazide-type diuretics are the three main drug classes used to control blood pressure. All of these drugs can help lower blood pressure, even though their modes of action vary slightly. The purpose of this study was to examine some long-term effects of using specific high blood pressure medications. The design of the study allowed researchers to follow up with participants in a passive manner for up to 23 years. A preplanned secondary analysis of the Antihypertensive and Lipid-Lowering Treatment to Prevent Heart Attack Trial (ALLHAT) was conducted in this study. Of these participants, data from 32,804 could be included by researchers.

The participants had high blood pressure, were 55 years of age or older, and had one or more additional coronary heart disease risk factors. Researchers examined a number of participant outcomes, including: Mortality from cardiovascular disease overall; Mortality from cardiovascular disease combined with nonfatal outcomes; Morbidity and mortality from coronary heart disease, stroke, cancer, end-stage renal disease, and heart failure. The original trial in question was a double-blind clinical trial in which participants were randomly assigned to receive one of three initial medications for high blood pressure: amlodipine, an ACE inhibitor (lisinopril), or chlorthalidone, a thiazide-type diuretic. Participants in the initial trial were also given doxazosin, an α-blocker, but this portion of the trial was terminated early. The three different medication types that were looked at in the study were described in detail to Medical News Today by Dr. Cheng-Han Chen, a board-certified interventional cardiologist and medical director of the Structural Heart Program at MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center in Laguna Hills, California. Dr. Cheng-Han Chen was not involved in the study. The three different drug classes that were examined in the documentation each have a unique method of efficiently lowering high blood pressure. A diuretic of the thiazide type works by making your body excrete salt and water, which lowers the fluid volume in blood vessels and the systemic pressure that follows. By lowering the amount of calcium that enters the blood vessel walls, a calcium-channel blocker helps to relax the blood vessel walls.

Through data from the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services, Social Security Administration, and National Death Index databases, researchers were able to conduct a secondary analysis that extended beyond the first trial period. Jose-Miguel Yamal, Ph., is the study’s author. D. UTHealth Houston School of Public Health associate professor of biostatistics and data science, stated to MNT: We aimed to ascertain whether there was a difference in the long-term risk of mortality and morbidity outcomes for older adults with hypertension who were starting with one of three widely used antihypertensive treatments: an ACE inhibitor, a calcium channel blocker, or a thiazide-type diuretic. Participants in a seminal clinical trial that compared these treatments were tracked for approximately five years. Much longer than what was possible by contacting participants one-on-one, we took that group of patients and linked their data with some other administrative datasets, such as Medicare, to be able to determine whether they ended up having other outcomes up to 23 years after they started the trial, he continued. The study’s findings showed that each medicine had a comparable death risk from cardiovascular disease. Regarding the other secondary outcomes, the groups’ results were likewise comparable. The primary distinction was that the ACE inhibitor was linked to an 11% higher risk of both fatal and nonfatal strokes that required hospitalization. This was in contrast to the diuretic of the thiazide type.

The higher risk was no longer significant, the researchers observed, once multiple comparisons were taken into consideration. They thus think that people should proceed with caution when interpreting the results. Many of the findings from the first ALLHAT study, which influenced clinical guidelines, are supported by this study. Diuretics and calcium channel blockers have been demonstrated to have superior blood pressure control and lower the risk of stroke compared to ACE inhibitors when stroke risk is a significant factor. This effect lasted well past the trial period. To validate these findings with long-term blood pressure medication use, more research is necessary. A board-certified cardiologist at Providence Saint John’s Health Center in Santa Monica, California, Dr. Rigved Tadwalkar, who was not involved in the study, said the research provided insightful information about the long-term consequences of antihypertensive drugs. The absence of significant differences in the mortality from cardiovascular disease among patients treated with these three classes of medications over an extended follow-up period of up to 23 years is the most noteworthy observation. This implies that the long-term efficacy of these antihypertensive classes is comparatively comparable when looking at mortality.

There are certain limitations to this research. Firstly, it fails to prove a cause-and-effect connection between the variables. After all was revealed, bias might have occurred, and it’s probable that participants stopped taking their medications after learning the truth. Additionally, the researchers lacked information regarding the use of blood pressure medications after trials from 2002 to 2006. None of the analyses were found to be statistically significant after multiple comparisons were taken into account. Some trial participants—like those from Canada—were not contacted by the researchers after the initial trial. Additionally, they were unable to obtain long-term morbidity follow-up from Veterans Affairs clients and non-Medicare participants. This might have restricted the research and reduced the generalizability of the findings. Additionally, blood pressure readings and laboratory data were not provided to the researchers following the conclusion of the initial trial.

The next most noteworthy finding about MNT, according to Dr. Tadwalkar, is that patients taking ACE inhibitors had an 11% higher chance of experiencing a combined fatal and nonfatal hospitalized stroke when compared to those taking diuretics. However, given the possible influence of unmeasured confounding variables and the fact that posttrial data on the use of antihypertensive medications were unavailable for the study for a number of years (2002 to 2006), this finding should be interpreted cautiously. He said that the absence of information could have led to crossover or regression to comparable drugs, which could have affected the results that were seen. When all is said and done, the results highlight how important it is to continuously monitor and review antihypertensive regimens, with an emphasis on individualized treatment plans for each patient. In this case, shared decision-making between patients and clinicians is essential because of the variations in observed outcomes over a long period of time.

REFERENCES:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/common-medications-high-blood-pressure-long-term-health-risk
https://www.webmd.com/hypertension-high-blood-pressure/side-effects-high-blood-pressure-medications
https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/high-blood-pressure/changes-you-can-make-to-manage-high-blood-pressure/managing-high-blood-pressure-medications
https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/939871

For blood pressure medications that have been suggested by doctors worldwide are available here https://mygenericpharmacy.com/index.php?cPath=77

Consuming more navy beans could aid in the prevention of colorectal cancer.

December 9, 2023 blogadmin Comments 0 Comment

Even though colorectal cancer is very treatable when detected in its early stages, most cases are discovered when the disease has progressed. Within five years of receiving treatment for colorectal cancer, recurrence rates range from 7% to 29%. A good diet and other lifestyle modifications can help prevent colorectal cancer. Recent studies have shown that including navy beans, sometimes referred to as haricot beans, in the diets of colorectal cancer survivors improved their gut microbiomes, which may help prevent and treat the disease. The third most common type of cancer worldwide is colorectal cancer, which affects the large intestine, including the colon and the rectum. When detected early enough, colorectal cancer is very treatable and in certain cases even curable. On the other hand, colorectal cancer does not always exhibit symptoms right away. Merely 35 percent or approximately three to four out of ten colorectal cancer cases are detected during the early stages of the disease, when it is still localized. Even with advancements in treatment, between 7 and 29 percent of patients with colorectal cancer may experience a recurrence within five years of finishing treatment, depending on the location and stage of the disease, according to recent research.

While there is no guarantee against colorectal cancer, research from the past indicates that maintaining a healthy weight, exercising frequently, and following certain dietary recommendations can all be beneficial. Presently, M.D researchers from The University of Texas. Researchers at the Anderson Cancer Center have discovered that including navy beans, sometimes referred to as haricot beans, in the diets of people who have survived colorectal cancer can enhance their gut microbiome, which may help prevent and treat cancer. The nutritional profiles of other dry beans, peas, and lentils may also stimulate the gut microbiome, according to Dr. Carrie Daniel-MacDougall, an associate professor of epidemiology at The University of Texas MdotD. The lead author of this study, from Anderson Cancer Center, told Medical News Today that she was especially motivated by encouraging results from early preclinical or mouse model studies that looked specifically at how navy beans affected the trifecta of obesity, inflammation, and colorectal cancer. Dr. Daniel-MacDougall stated that the Polyp Prevention Trial (PPT) served as an inspiration for these investigations, including her own. She continued, This large study demonstrated that the individuals who consumed the most beans on a daily basis or nearly did so had a lower risk of recurrence of advanced colorectal adenoma, a type of precancerous and high-risk polyp that is very likely to progress to colorectal cancer if not caught promptly upon colonoscopy and completely removed.

Pinto, navy, and black beans were the most popular beans consumed by Americans at the time of the PPT, though their popularity varied. S. area. I knew navy beans here in Texas would also be “new” to participants and have a mild/adaptable taste, so I knew they would be ideal for testing in a consistent and controlled way over the course of eight weeks, she continued. A balanced gut microbiome is crucial for colorectal cancer survivors, according to Dr. Daniel-MacDougall, as it interacts directly with the colon epithelium, which is the site of colorectal cancer development. She went on to say that the immune system is closely related to this “cross-talk” between human cells and bacteria, which can either drive or prevent inflammation as well as the onset and spread of cancer. Dr. Daniel-MacDougall continued, “Survivors of cancer want to avoid other major and debilitating health issues after overcoming the arduous journey of the disease.”. The significance of the gut microbiome in colorectal cancer has also been demonstrated by earlier studies. According to a July 2023 study, microbial therapies for colorectal cancer may target the gut microbiome. According to a June 2020 study, dietary modifications tailored to an individual’s gut microbiota may help stop colorectal cancer (CRC) from starting and spreading while also enhancing the effectiveness of antitumoral therapy.

In order to conduct this study, Dr. Daniel-MacDougall and her colleagues randomly assigned 55 male and female participants over the age of thirty who had previously experienced bowel lesions, colorectal cancer, or were at high risk of developing precancerous polyps. Of these, 48 (87 percent) of the participants finished the study. Participants were asked to consume a cup of organic, canned, pressure-cooked white navy beans every day for eight weeks, or they could continue with their regular diet. Researchers found that individuals who regularly ate navy beans had improvements in their gut microbiome. These alterations included a decrease in pathogenic, or opportunistic, bacteria and an increase in alpha diversity, or beneficial bacteria like Eubacterium, Bifidobacterium, and Faecalibacterium. While some doctors might feel at ease discussing healthy living, exercise, and eating more fruits and vegetables and less red and processed meat with their patients, Dr. Daniel-MacDougall noted that beans are frequently less likely to come up in conversation and may be more difficult to sell in a population with a history of bowel lesions or bowel issues. She continued, “I hope that this trial’s results and other supporting evidence will make beans a regular topic of conversation and that more medical professionals and patients will recognize the importance of whole foods to achieve a broader impact on health.”. MNT also had a conversation with Dr. Anton Bilchik, director of the Gastrointestinal and Hepatob Institute, chief of medicine, and surgical oncologist.

With between 2 and 3 trillion bacteria in the human body and strong evidence linking these bacteria to a reduced risk of cancer and cardiovascular disease, Dr. Bilchik stated that he thought this study was highly significant and pertinent. In addition, we may harbor both beneficial and harmful bacteria. Thus, he emphasized, it would be crucial if we could use nutrition to boost the good bacteria that influence the immune system and prevent cancer or cancer recurrence. Additionally, given the wealth of new knowledge about bacteria and how diet can affect them, Dr. Bilchik stated that doctors must discuss gut health with their patients who have colorectal cancer. For instance, it is commonly known that individuals who consume processed foods, red meat, and charred meat have a higher risk of developing colorectal cancer. And because other foods, like processed food, may be stimulating the bad bacteria to increase the risk of colorectal cancer and cancer currently, it is critical to know that there are healthier foods that can stimulate bacteria to prevent cancer or to prevent cancer recurrence. Therefore, Dr. Bilchik continued, diet and nutrition should play a critical role in the conversation regarding the prevention of colorectal cancer as well as the treatment of patients who already have the disease to reduce the likelihood that it will return.

REFERENCES:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/eating-more-navy-haricot-beans-may-help-colorectal-cancer-prevention-treatment
https://ascopost.com/news/december-2023/consuming-navy-beans-may-improve-gut-health-regulate-immune-and-inflammatory-processes-in-colorectal-cancer-survivors/
https://www.mdanderson.org/newsroom/eating-beans-improves-gut-health-regulates-immune-inflammatory-processes-colorectal-cancer-survivors.h00-159623379.html
https://medicaldialogues.in/gastroenterology/news/eating-beans-may-prevent-recurrence-of-colorectal-cancer-study-121017

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Ibuprofen may not be the most effective medication for migraines.

December 2, 2023 blogadmin Comments 0 Comment

Triptans are the most successful drugs for treating migraine attacks, according to research. The second most effective drugs were discovered to be ergots and antiemetics. The researchers emphasize that there are numerous, efficient methods for treating migraine episodes. The most successful treatment for migraine attacks is triptans, which are marketed under brands like Imitrex, Zomig, and Maxalt, according to a study that was just published online in the Neurology journal. Ibuprofen, which is marketed under the brands Advil and Motrin, has been found to be two to three times less effective than other classes of medications, such as ergots and antiemetics. Comparing 25 drugs from seven different drug classes, researchers looked at which ones worked best for treating migraine attacks when compared to ibuprofen. Using a smartphone app, the scientists gathered data on over 4.7 million treatment attempts made by almost 300,000 people over the course of six years. Based on user input, frequency, triggers, symptoms, medication, and medication effectiveness, the app gathered data. The top three drug classes, according to the researchers, were: Triptans; Ergots (Migranal, Trudhesa, Cafergot, Ergomar, Ergostat); Antiemetics (Reglan, Compro); and 42 percent of the participants said ibuprofen was effective.

Dr. Noah Rosen, the vice chair of neurology at Northwell Health in New York and an unaffiliated third party, stated that underdosing on ibuprofen raises the risk of recurrence. Underdosing is frequently done to minimize side effects such as stomach irritation. Furthermore, Rosen told Medical News Today that the drug’s halflife—the amount of time it remains active in your body—is relatively brief. Some similar drugs, such as naproxen, remain in the body for a lot longer and stop headaches from coming back. Ibuprofen has a moderate benefit, especially for those who experience less frequent events or who also have neck or jaw pain, but there are other more targeted options that may be more effective and less likely to cause a recurrence of the headache. Eletriptan (6 times more effective than ibuprofen), Zolmitriptan (5 times more effective than ibuprofen), and Sumatriptan (5 times more effective than ibuprofen) were the top three medications, according to the study. The participants reported that eletriptan was helpful 78% of the time, zolmitriptan 74% of the time, and sumatriptan 72% of the time. Other medication classes, including acetaminophen (Tylenol) and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), were also examined by the researchers. The effectiveness of the NSAIDs other than ibuprofen was 94% higher. A popular mix of aspirin, caffeine, and acetaminophen was found to be 69% more effective than ibuprofen. Only acetaminophen proved beneficial 37% of the time.

I am not surprised by these results, said Dr. Medhat Mikhael, a pain management specialist and medical director of the nonoperative program at the Spine Health Center at Memorial Care Orange Coast Medical Center in California. The scientists looked at other NSAIDs and found that all of them were more effective than ibuprofen. Ketorolac (Toradol) was helpful 62 percent of the time. Indomethacin (Tivorbex) was helpful 57 percent of the time. Diclofenac (Flector, Cambia, Zipsor) was helpful 56 percent of the time. Since migraines are brought on by artery vasodilation, triptans and ergots are excellent treatments. By narrowing the arteries, these drugs reduce pain. Inflammation is treated by ibuprofen. Medical News Today was informed by Mikhael, who was not involved in the study, that it is beneficial for inflammatory conditions such as arthritis. Ibuprofen typically doesn’t completely eliminate migraine pain, but it may lessen its intensity. The speed at which ibuprofen leaves your system is another issue. It may begin to relieve symptoms, but after two hours the pain might return. The authors point out that there are numerous migraine relief treatment options available. Dr. ChiaChun Chiang, a study author and neurologist at the Mayo Clinic in Roch, stated, “Our hope is that this study shows that there are many alternatives that work for migraine and we encourage people to talk with their doctors about how to treat this painful and debilitating condition.”.

One of the study’s limitations, according to the researchers, is that the results were self-reported by the participants, meaning that a variety of factors, such as the participants’ expectations of the medication, could have an impact. Another drawback is that the study did not include more recent migraine drugs, such as ditans (Lasmiditan) and gepants (ubrogepant, atogepant, and rimegepant), because there was insufficient information available about them at the time of the investigation. According to UC Davis Health, migraine is a neurological disorder or syndrome rather than just a headache. Although they are a crucial symptom, headaches do not always accompany migraines. The membrane separating the brain and the skull, known as the dura, is inflamed under nerve control, which is what causes headache pain. The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke describes it as occurring on one side of the head and characterized by recurrent episodes of moderate to severe throbbing and pulsating pain. Rosen pointed out that migraine is more than just severe headaches. It is frequently distinguished by the accompanying symptoms. The classic migraine pain is sharp, one-sided pain that lasts in a typical way for two to twenty-four hours. These are usually moderate to severe in intensity, and they usually get worse when moving. These incidents are linked to either nausea and vomiting or sensitivity to light and sound. Prodromal or postdromal states, which occur before or after the actual head pain, can cause behavioral abnormalities, yawning, food cravings, and changes in energy levels in a lot of people. Hormonal fluctuations may play a role in the prevalence of migraines in adult women.

REFERENCES:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/certain-migraine-medications-may-be-more-effective-than-ibuprofen#What-is-migraine?
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2023/11/231129174011.htm
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5935632/
https://www.withcove.com/learn/best-over-the-counter-migraine-medication

For migraine medications that have been suggested by doctors worldwide are available here https://mygenericpharmacy.com/index.php?cPath=77_273

Not every case of lung cancer has a smoking connection.

November 30, 2023 blogadmin Comments 0 Comment

It is an undeniable fact that lung cancer can be caused by tobacco use. According to Cancer Research UK, a nonprofit organization based in the United Kingdom, smoking is the primary cause of both 72% of lung cancer cases and 86% of lung cancer deaths. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), smoking is linked to up to 90% of lung cancer deaths in the US. Lung cancer risk can be significantly decreased by quitting smoking or, better yet, by never starting to smoke. Smoking is not a cause of lung cancer in all cases, though. Furthermore, non-smoking related lung cancer cases are increasing while smoking-related lung cancer cases are beginning to decline. A disease known as cancer occurs when certain body cells proliferate out of control and invade other bodily regions. Any cancer that affects the lung tissue, bronchi (airways), or trachea (windpipe) is classified as lung cancer. Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) are the two primary forms of lung cancer. Approximately 80%–85% of lung cancer cases are NSCLC. NSCLC can be classified into three primary types: large cell carcinoma, where cells appear larger than typical when examined under a microscope; squamous cell carcinoma, which tends to grow near the center of the lungs and starts in the flat cells that cover the airway surface; and adenocarcinoma, which begins in the mucus cells lining the airways.

As a whole, in the U. S. the estimated 5-year survival rate for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is 28%, which indicates that 28% of patients with NSCLC are expected to survive five years after diagnosis. On the other hand, survival rates are constantly rising. Lung cancer has historically afflicted more men than women. Women’s smoking rates peaked in the U.S. S. as these women grew older, the incidence of lung cancer rose in the 1960s. There has been an alarming increase in lung cancer cases among younger women (ages 30-49) in recent years. The term “EGFR+ lung cancer” refers to a type of lung cancer, typically an adenocarcinoma, that is brought on by a mutation in the protein known as “EGFR,” which is involved in the growth and division of healthy cells rather than smoking. The gene becomes mutated, telling cells to divide continuously, which results in cancerous tumors. According to the American Lung Association (ALA), 10–15 percent of lung cancers in the United States have an EGFR+ mutation. S. The two most prevalent EGFR mutations are the EGFR L858R point mutation, which modifies a single nucleotide (small unit of DNA), and the EGFR 19 deletion, which results in a portion of the gene being absent. The Exon 20 insertion mutation, which accounts for 4–10% of EGFR+ lung cancer cases, is less frequent. Women are more likely than men to develop this kind of lung cancer. Additionally, younger individuals, those who have never smoked, and those who have smoked lightly in the past are more likely to receive a diagnosis than heavy smokers. Thus, it may share some of the blame for the observed increases.

Numerous lung cancer patients experience negative stigma related to their alleged lifestyles. MNT designed the collage, and Rankin took the photos for the See Through the Symptoms campaign. Images courtesy of EGFR+ UK. Prof. Robert Rintoul is a professor of thoracic oncology at the University of Cambridge’s Department of Oncology. K. , an honorary consultant respiratory physician at the Cambridge-based Royal Papworth Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, stated to Medical News Today: “Many individuals with EGFR+ status do not consider lung cancer as a possible cause of their symptoms because they are either light or never smokers. “Oh, it can’t be that bad; I’ve never smoked.”. When the disease does manifest, these patients frequently do so at a later stage and with more advanced symptoms. Lung cancer is no longer a disease exclusive to smokers; at present, 15% of all cases of lung cancer that we diagnose (regardless of EGFR status) are never smokers. As per the CDC, 20 percent or more of lung cancer cases in the U.S. S. are identified among non-smokers. Prof. Regardless of smoking history, Rintoul recommended that everyone be aware of the symptoms, which include: a persistent cough lasting longer than three weeks; recurrent chest infections; blood in the cough; weight loss; unexplained fatigue; chest pain; and unexplained dyspnea. EGFR+ survivor Dr. Gini Harrison, a psychologist and research trustee at EGFR+ UK, issued a warning, pointing out that not everyone experiences these common symptoms, especially in the case of EGFR+ lung cancer.

“I was forty years old. After giving birth to my son in February 2021, I experienced excruciating shoulder pain almost immediately. And that was it. My only symptom was that. No wheezing, no breathing problems—none at all. She informed us that my GP [primary care physician] believed it was likely tendonitis brought on by improper breastfeeding posture. Furthermore, she stated that many of us only exhibit musculoskeletal symptoms at diagnosis, such as shoulder, chest, or back pain. Her unusual symptoms contributed to the nine months it took to diagnose her cancer. Funding for lung cancer research is scarce. Despite being the second most common cancer in women and the most common cancer in men, it receives relatively little funding when considering the total cost of cancer. Lung cancer accounts for 14% of all cancer cases and 18% of all cancer deaths worldwide, but between 2016 and 2020, only 53% of all cancer research funding was allocated to lung cancer research. Is it possible that this is a result of the stigma attached to lung cancer? Considering that 80–90% of people who pass away from lung cancer had smoked in the past, and smoking is frequently blamed for the disease, this could be a factor.

It is imperative, however, that this perspective shift, according to Dr. Harrison: “We need to raise awareness that lung cancer can happen to anyone with lungs, regardless of smoking status.”. Eliminating this stigma would increase awareness, support, funding for research, visibility, and knowledge, all of which should eventually improve symptom detection and early identification, treatment options, and survival rates. The prognosis for lung cancer is better the earlier it is identified. A person with NSCLC who is diagnosed at an early, or localized, stage has a 65 percent chance of surviving for five years, according to the American Cancer Society. However, only 9% of those whose cancer has spread to other parts of their bodies prior to diagnosis have a chance of surviving for an additional five years. Nevertheless, as Dr. Harrison indicated, the prognosis is getting better for people with lung cancer of all kinds. People are living far longer these days than they did a few years ago thanks to targeted therapies. When you look up the statistics on Google after receiving a diagnosis, the appalling results you find are shocking. However, those figures are incredibly outdated. She noted that they haven’t considered the targeted therapies. The cancer’s stage determines the course of treatment for NSCLC. Early detection allows for complete removal of the cancer with no need for follow-up treatments when treated with surgery, photodynamic therapy (PDT), laser therapy, or brachytherapy (internal radiation). The furrier the diagnosis of cancer, the later it comes.

Treatment options for lung cancer in its later stages include surgery, radiation therapy, immunotherapy (drugs that boost the immune system’s ability to fight cancer), and/or chemotherapy. To target therapy, gene mutations in the tumors will be examined. Tyrosine kinase inhibitors, or TKIs, are a class of medications used to treat EGFR+ lung cancer. TKIs block the enzymes that activate proteins like EGFR. Tacrieva (erlotinib), Gilotrif (afatanib), Iressa (gefitinib), Vidimpro (dacomitinib), and Tagrisso (osimertinib) are the five TKIs that are approved for the treatment of EGFR+ lung cancer. Patients with EGFR mutations in NSCLC can significantly increase their chances of survival and quality of life with these drugs. Nevertheless, other gene mutations may impact their effectiveness, and tumors may develop resistance to them. The duration of the medications’ effectiveness varies from patient to patient, according to EGFR+ UK. In the event that the cancer develops resistance and grows or spreads, medical professionals will perform genetic testing to determine the specific mutation that has taken place. They will then frequently try radiation therapy or chemotherapy, which many people will respond well to, or another TKI. Genetic testing revealed that Dr. Harrison’s cancer was Exon 20, which is resistant to TKIs. Since there were no specific treatments for Exon 20 at the time of my diagnosis, they chose chemotherapy and radiation because it was a relatively local treatment.

Although she still has some long-term effects from her several months of chemotherapy and radiation therapy, she no longer has any evidence of cancer: “What has happened is the top of my lung has collapsed, as a result of the radiation, and my ribs just keep breaking, but it’s not cancer!” Recent advancements in EGFR+ lung cancer research have been made despite funding shortages. A study conducted earlier in 2023 discovered that glioblastoma, the most common type of brain tumor, has been linked to the development of CD70, a gene that promotes cell survival and invasiveness. This gene may be a potential therapeutic target for patients with resistant EGFR+ lung cancer. Although research on this topic is still in its early stages, another study has hypothesized that a vaccine could prevent the development of common lung tumors driven by EGFR mutations by stimulating immune cells. Dr. Elene Mariamidze of Todua Clinic in Tbilisi, Georgia, stated at the ESMO Congress 2023 that “we are entering an era of personalised medicine in NSCLC where we are using combinations of novel, targeted agents, and it will be essential to know the whole mutational burden of each patient at diagnosis so we can properly plan the most effective and least toxic approach.” Targeted, combined therapies appear to be the most promising route. The optimal mix of immunotherapy and chemotherapy, or targeted treatment, for individual patients is what will shape lung cancer care in the future. Marcia K. Horn, the Intern’s president and CEO, is a juris doctor.

“The PAPILLON clinical trial data were announced at the recent ESMO Congress in Madrid, and our patients and care partners who are members of the Exon 20 Group were ecstatic,” she said. The PAPILLON data indicates that amivantamab plus the chemotherapy doublet of pemetrexed/ALIMTA plus carboplatin is now the new first-line treatment for patients with EGFR exon 20 insertion mutations. She continued, “It is imperative that our patient population has access to such a game-changing first-line therapy.”. The intention, according to EGFR+ UK, is for EGFR mutant lung cancer to develop into a long-term, chronic condition that can be managed. The care a person receives, however, varies depending on where they live, as Dr. Harrison explained to MNT: “New discoveries are made on a regular basis, but even though there are numerous clinical trials located in the U.S. Few of them have locations in the U.S. K. , and access to medications is far worse here. “There is a huge disparity in care, both within the U.S. K. and between various nations. She said, “It’s incredibly frustrating.”. “Importantly, patient advocacy is crucial. Our job at the charity is to empower patients to advocate for themselves by educating and guiding them. However, things are looking up. People are living longer these days. Dr. Harrison told us that he knew someone who is still alive 34 years after being diagnosed.

REFERENCES:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/things-you-may-not-know-about-egfr-positive-lung-cancer
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7431055/
https://www.yalemedicine.org/conditions/lung-cancer-in-nonsmokers
https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/lung/basic_info/risk_factors.htm

For cancer disease medications that have been suggested by doctors worldwide are available here https://mygenericpharmacy.com/index.php?cPath=77_115