Michaels Mission

Following Lifestyle Recommendations Reduces Risk of Cancer Death

Wed, 15 May 2013 00:01:54 +0000

People who follow the diet and lifestyle recommendations laid out by the World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF) and the American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR) have a 34 percent reduced risk of dying from several diseases and specifically, a 20 percent reduced risk of dying from cancer compared to people who don’t follow the recommendations, according to the results of a study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.

In 2007, the WCRF and the AICR issued recommendations on diet, physical activity, and weight management for cancer prevention on the basis of the most comprehensive collection of available evidence. The 10 recommendations are as follows:

Be as lean as possible within the normal range of body weight.
Be physically active as part of everyday life.
Limit consumption of energy-dense foods. Avoid sugary drinks.
Eat mostly foods of plant origin.
Limit intake of red meat and avoid processed meat.
Limit alcoholic drinks.
Limit consumption of salt. Avoid moldy grains or legumes.
Aim to meet nutritional needs through diet alone (by avoiding supplements).
Mothers to breastfeed; children to be breastfed.
Follow the recommendations for cancer prevention.

In order to determine whether these recommendations were associated with a reduced risk of death, researchers conducted a study to investigate 378,864 people in nine European countries enrolled in the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition study. Over a period of 12 years, researchers examined the subjects’ diet and lifestyle to see how closely they complied with six or seven (for women) of the ten recommendations: body fat, physical activity, consumption of foods and drinks that promote weight gain, consumption of plant foods, meat, alcoholic drinks and breastfeeding. Participants were given a score from 0 to 6 (or 7 for women); higher scores indicated greater compliance with the recommendations.

They then compared the group of participants with the strongest adherence to the guidelines to those with the weakest adherence to calculate the level of risk reduction that would come from compliance with the recommendations. When compared to the group with the lowest level of compliance, those who most closely followed the WCRF/AICR recommendations had a 34 percent reduced risk of death overall—and specifically, a 50 percent reduced risk of dying from respiratory disease, 44 percent reduced risk of dying from circulatory disease, and a 20 percent reduced risk of dying from cancer.

Being lean and eating foods mostly of plant origin appeared to have the greatest impact on reducing the risk of death from disease. Limiting alcohol consumption and eating mostly plant foods had the greatest impact on reducing the risk of cancer death. Women who breastfed for at least six months had a reduced risk of death from cancer and circulatory disease.

The researchers concluded that following the WCRF/AICR lifestyle recommendations could reduce the risk of cancer death and death from other diseases.

Reference:

Vergnaud AC, Romaquera D, Peeters PH, et al. Adherence to the World Cancer Research Fund/American Institute for Cancer Research guidelines and risk of death in Europe: results from the European Prospective Investigation into Nutrition and Cancer cohort study. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. Published early online April 3, 2013. doi: 10.3945/ajcn.11

Second Large Study Confirms Oncotype DX Can Predict Recurrence in Stage 2 Colon Cancer

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 15:23:11 +0000

Results from the large CALGB 9581 clinical validation study of the Oncotype DX® colon cancer test confirm that Recurrence Score® (RS) results improve the ability to differentiate high recurrence risk disease from low recurrence risk disease, beyond conventional factors such as T-stage, mismatch repair (MMR) status, nodes examined, grade and lymphovascular invasion. The results of the study were published early online in the Journal of Clinical Oncology.

Stage II colon cancer refers to cancer that extends through the wall of the colon but has not invaded lymph nodes or spread to distant parts of the body. Many patients with this stage of disease have good outcomes with surgery alone, and routine adjuvant (post-surgery) chemotherapy is not currently recommended for Stage II colon cancer. Chemotherapy may, however, be considered for Stage II patients with a higher risk of cancer recurrence.

The Oncotype DX colon cancer test evaluates 12 genes in a sample of tumor tissue and generates a Recurrence Score. The Recurrence Score provides information about the likelihood of cancer recurrence—and as a result, can improve treatment decisions.

Researchers conducted a validation study of the 12-gene recurrence score in tumor specimens from patients enrolled in the Cancer and Leukemia Group B (CALGB) 9581 study. The study included 1,713 patients with stage II colon cancer who were randomly assigned to treatment with the monoclonal antibody edrecolomab or observation. There was no survival difference between the two groups. The current analysis included all patients with available tissue and recurrence (162) and a random selection of patients whose disease did not recur.

A Recurrence Score was assessed in 690 tumor samples. The results indicated that the Recurrence Score result was the strongest predictor of recurrence risk, providing risk discrimination beyond conventional clinical and pathologic measures in multivariable analyses. The Recurrence Score result was particularly valuable in patients with T3 stage and intact (proficient) mismatch repair (MMR) protein function, a population for whom conventional factors are uninformative. In this group of patients, the Recurrence Score result identified 22 percent of patients with an average risk of recurrence at five years above 20 percent. A high colon cancer Recurrence Score result reveals an underlying biology indicative of more aggressive disease for which adjuvant chemotherapy may be more appropriately considered.

The researchers concluded that the 12-gene Recurrence Score predicts recurrence in stage II colon cancer. They note that the Recurrence Score can help physicians identify the most appropriate treatment plan for patients with stage II colon cancer and can potentially spare some patients from chemotherapy that they don’t need.

Reference:

Venook AP, Niedzwiecki D, Lopatin M, et al. Biologic Determinants of Tumor Recurrence in Stage II Colon Cancer: Validation Study of the 12-Gene Recurrence Score in Cancer and Leukemia Group B (CALGB) 9581. Journal of Clinical Oncology. Published early online March 25, 2013. doi: 10.1200/JCO.2012.45.1096

Ditropan XL®

Mon, 18 Mar 2013 13:40:38 +0000

Class: Other

Generic Name: Oxybutynin

Trade Names: Ditropan XL®, Oxytrol®, Gelnique®

How is this drug used? Oxybutynin is used to treat overactive bladder with symptoms of a strong need to urinate right away; leaking accidents due to a strong, immediate need to urinate; or a need to urinate often.

What is the mechanism of action? Oxybutynin acts by relaxing the bladder muscles. It is a type of drug known as an anticholinergic.

How is oxybutynin given (administered)? Depending on the form of the medicine that is prescribed, oxybutynin is taken orally (by mouth), administered to the skin in the form of a patch, or administered to the skin as a gel.

How are patients monitored? Patients will usually have scheduled meetings with their healthcare provider while they are being treated with oxybutynin. Patients may undergo physical examinations or other measures to assess side effects and response to therapy.

What are the most common side effects of treatment with oxybutynin?

Dry mouth
Skin reactions to gel or patch

What are some of the less common side effects of treatment with oxybutynin?

Trouble emptying the bladder
Increased risk of stomach problems in some patients
Headache, dizziness, sleepiness
Worsening of myasthenia gravis
Swelling (angioedema)
Heat prostration in hot environments (oxybutynin can decrease sweating)

This is not a complete list of side effects. Some patients may experience other side effects that are not listed here. Patients may wish to discuss with their physician the other less common side effects of this drug, some of which may be serious.

Some side effects may require medical attention. Other side effects do not require medical attention and may go away during treatment. Patients should check with their physician about any side effects that continue or are bothersome.

What can patients do to help alleviate or prevent discomfort and side effects?

Pay careful attention to the physician’s instructions, and discuss side effects with your physician.
Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how oxybutynin affects you.
Avoid alcohol. It may increase the risk of serious side effects.

Are there any special precautions patients should be aware of before starting treatment?

Oxybutynin should not be taken by people who have trouble emptying their bladder, slow emptying of the stomach, uncontrolled narrow-angle glaucoma, or allergies to any of the ingredients in oxybutynin.
Patients should inform their physician about all medical conditions, including stomach or intestinal problems, constipation, weak urine stream or trouble emptying the bladder, narrow-angle glaucoma, kidney problems, liver problems, gastric reflux disease, or myasthenia gravis.
Patients should inform their physician of any other medication or supplement they are taking (whether prescription or over-the-counter), including bisphosphonates and anticholinergics.
Patients should tell their doctor if they are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant. It is not known whether oxybutynin will harm an unborn baby.

When should patients notify their physician?

Tell your doctor if you experience any side effects that bother you or don’t go away. Seek immediate medical care if you notice signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as swelling of the face, lips, throat, or tongue.

What is a package insert?

A package insert is required by the FDA and contains a summary of the essential scientific information needed for the safe and effective use of the drug for healthcare providers and consumers. A package insert typically includes information regarding specific indications, administration schedules, dosing, side effects, contraindications, results from some clinical trials, chemical structure, pharmacokinetics and metabolism of the specific drug. By carefully reviewing the package insert, you will get the most complete and current information about how to safely use this drug. If you do not have the package insert for the drug you are using, your pharmacist or physician may be able to provide you with a copy.

Important Limitations of Use

The information provided above on the drug you have selected is provided for your information only and is not a substitute for consultation with an appropriate medical doctor. We are providing this information solely as a courtesy and, as such, it is in no way a recommendation as to the safety, efficacy or appropriateness of any particular drug, regimen, dosing schedule for any particular cancer, condition or patient nor is it in any way to be considered medical advice. Patients should discuss the appropriateness of a particular drug or chemotherapy regimen with their physician.

As with any printed reference, the use of particular drugs, regimens and drug dosages may become out-of-date over time, since new information may have been published and become generally accepted after the latest update to this printed information. Please keep in mind that health care professionals are fully responsible for practicing within current standards, avoiding use of outdated regimens, employing good clinical judgment in selecting drugs and/or regimens, in calculating doses for individual patients, and verifying all dosage calculations.

DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTIES

CANCERCONSULTANTS.COM SPECIFICALLY DISCLAIMS AND EXCLUDES ALL EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUDING ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES AS TO QUALITY, ACCURACY (INCLUDING TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS), MERCHANTABILITY, OR FITNESS FOR ANY PARTICULAR PURPOSE OF THE INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN. CANCERCONSULTANTS.COM DISCLAIMS ALL LIABILITY OR DAMAGES ARISING FROM ANY USE OF THE INFORMATION.

The prescribing physician is solely responsible for making all decisions relating to appropriate patient care including, but not limited to, drugs, regimens, dose, schedule, and any supportive care.

Oxytrol®

Mon, 18 Mar 2013 13:40:32 +0000

Class: Other

Generic Name: Oxybutynin

Trade Names: Ditropan XL®, Oxytrol®, Gelnique®

What is the mechanism of action? Oxybutynin acts by relaxing the bladder muscles. It is a type of drug known as an anticholinergic.

What are the most common side effects of treatment with oxybutynin?

Dry mouth
Skin reactions to gel or patch

What are some of the less common side effects of treatment with oxybutynin?

Trouble emptying the bladder
Increased risk of stomach problems in some patients
Headache, dizziness, sleepiness
Worsening of myasthenia gravis
Swelling (angioedema)
Heat prostration in hot environments (oxybutynin can decrease sweating)

What can patients do to help alleviate or prevent discomfort and side effects?

Pay careful attention to the physician’s instructions, and discuss side effects with your physician.
Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how oxybutynin affects you.
Avoid alcohol. It may increase the risk of serious side effects.

Are there any special precautions patients should be aware of before starting treatment?

Oxybutynin should not be taken by people who have trouble emptying their bladder, slow emptying of the stomach, uncontrolled narrow-angle glaucoma, or allergies to any of the ingredients in oxybutynin.
Patients should inform their physician about all medical conditions, including stomach or intestinal problems, constipation, weak urine stream or trouble emptying the bladder, narrow-angle glaucoma, kidney problems, liver problems, gastric reflux disease, or myasthenia gravis.
Patients should inform their physician of any other medication or supplement they are taking (whether prescription or over-the-counter), including bisphosphonates and anticholinergics.
Patients should tell their doctor if they are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant. It is not known whether oxybutynin will harm an unborn baby.

When should patients notify their physician?

What is a package insert?

Important Limitations of Use

DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTIES

The prescribing physician is solely responsible for making all decisions relating to appropriate patient care including, but not limited to, drugs, regimens, dose, schedule, and any supportive care.

Gelnique®

Mon, 18 Mar 2013 13:40:24 +0000

Class: Other

Generic Name: Oxybutynin

Trade Names: Ditropan XL®, Oxytrol®, Gelnique®

What is the mechanism of action? Oxybutynin acts by relaxing the bladder muscles. It is a type of drug known as an anticholinergic.

What are the most common side effects of treatment with oxybutynin?

Dry mouth
Skin reactions to gel or patch

What are some of the less common side effects of treatment with oxybutynin?

Trouble emptying the bladder
Increased risk of stomach problems in some patients
Headache, dizziness, sleepiness
Worsening of myasthenia gravis
Swelling (angioedema)
Heat prostration in hot environments (oxybutynin can decrease sweating)

What can patients do to help alleviate or prevent discomfort and side effects?

Pay careful attention to the physician’s instructions, and discuss side effects with your physician.
Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how oxybutynin affects you.
Avoid alcohol. It may increase the risk of serious side effects.

Are there any special precautions patients should be aware of before starting treatment?

Oxybutynin should not be taken by people who have trouble emptying their bladder, slow emptying of the stomach, uncontrolled narrow-angle glaucoma, or allergies to any of the ingredients in oxybutynin.
Patients should inform their physician about all medical conditions, including stomach or intestinal problems, constipation, weak urine stream or trouble emptying the bladder, narrow-angle glaucoma, kidney problems, liver problems, gastric reflux disease, or myasthenia gravis.
Patients should inform their physician of any other medication or supplement they are taking (whether prescription or over-the-counter), including bisphosphonates and anticholinergics.
Patients should tell their doctor if they are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant. It is not known whether oxybutynin will harm an unborn baby.

When should patients notify their physician?

What is a package insert?

Important Limitations of Use

DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTIES

The prescribing physician is solely responsible for making all decisions relating to appropriate patient care including, but not limited to, drugs, regimens, dose, schedule, and any supportive care.

Enablex®

Mon, 18 Mar 2013 13:36:25 +0000

Class: Other

Generic Name: Darifenacin

Trade Names: Enablex®

How is this drug used? Enablex is used to treat overactive bladder with symptoms of a strong need to urinate right away; leaking accidents due to a strong, immediate need to urinate; or a need to urinate often.

What is the mechanism of action? Enablex acts by relaxing the bladder muscles. It is a type of drug known as an anticholinergic.

How is Enablex given (administered)? Enablex is taken orally (by mouth).

How are patients monitored? Patients will usually have scheduled meetings with their healthcare provider while they are being treated with Enablex. Patients may undergo physical examinations or other measures to assess side effects and response to therapy.

What are the most common side effects of treatment with Enablex?

Dry mouth
Constipation
Headache
Heartburn
Nausea
Urinary tract infection
Blurred vision
Heat exhaustion or heat stroke in hot environments

What are some of the less common side effects of treatment with Enablex?

Serious allergic reactions

What can patients do to help alleviate or prevent discomfort and side effects?

Pay careful attention to the physician’s instructions, and discuss side effects with your physician.
Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how Enablex affects you.

Are there any special precautions patients should be aware of before starting treatment?

Enablex should not be taken by people who have trouble emptying their bladder, slow emptying of the stomach, uncontrolled narrow-angle glaucoma, or allergies to any of the ingredients in Enablex.
Patients should inform their physician about all medical conditions, including stomach or intestinal problems, constipation, weak urine stream or trouble emptying the bladder, narrow-angle glaucoma, kidney problems, or liver problems.
Patients should inform their physician of any other medication or supplement they are taking (whether prescription or over-the-counter), including antifungal medications, antibiotics, anti-HIV medications, antidepressant medications, antipsychotic medications, and medications used to treat an abnormal heartbeat.
Patients should tell their doctor if they are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant. It is not known whether Enablex will harm an unborn baby.

When should patients notify their physician?

What is a package insert?

Important Limitations of Use

DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTIES

The prescribing physician is solely responsible for making all decisions relating to appropriate patient care including, but not limited to, drugs, regimens, dose, schedule, and any supportive care.

Darifenacin

Mon, 18 Mar 2013 13:36:19 +0000

Class: Other

Generic Name: Darifenacin

Trade Names: Enablex®

What is the mechanism of action? Enablex acts by relaxing the bladder muscles. It is a type of drug known as an anticholinergic.

How is Enablex given (administered)? Enablex is taken orally (by mouth).

What are the most common side effects of treatment with Enablex?

Dry mouth
Constipation
Headache
Heartburn
Nausea
Urinary tract infection
Blurred vision
Heat exhaustion or heat stroke in hot environments

What are some of the less common side effects of treatment with Enablex?

Serious allergic reactions

What can patients do to help alleviate or prevent discomfort and side effects?

Pay careful attention to the physician’s instructions, and discuss side effects with your physician.
Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how Enablex affects you.

Are there any special precautions patients should be aware of before starting treatment?

Enablex should not be taken by people who have trouble emptying their bladder, slow emptying of the stomach, uncontrolled narrow-angle glaucoma, or allergies to any of the ingredients in Enablex.
Patients should inform their physician about all medical conditions, including stomach or intestinal problems, constipation, weak urine stream or trouble emptying the bladder, narrow-angle glaucoma, kidney problems, or liver problems.
Patients should inform their physician of any other medication or supplement they are taking (whether prescription or over-the-counter), including antifungal medications, antibiotics, anti-HIV medications, antidepressant medications, antipsychotic medications, and medications used to treat an abnormal heartbeat.
Patients should tell their doctor if they are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant. It is not known whether Enablex will harm an unborn baby.

When should patients notify their physician?

What is a package insert?

Important Limitations of Use

DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTIES

The prescribing physician is solely responsible for making all decisions relating to appropriate patient care including, but not limited to, drugs, regimens, dose, schedule, and any supportive care.

Oxybutynin

Mon, 18 Mar 2013 13:24:00 +0000

Class: Other

Generic Name: Oxybutynin

Trade Names: Ditropan XL®, Oxytrol®, Gelnique®

What is the mechanism of action? Oxybutynin acts by relaxing the bladder muscles. It is a type of drug known as an anticholinergic.

What are the most common side effects of treatment with oxybutynin?

Dry mouth
Skin reactions to gel or patch

What are some of the less common side effects of treatment with oxybutynin?

Trouble emptying the bladder
Increased risk of stomach problems in some patients
Headache, dizziness, sleepiness
Worsening of myasthenia gravis
Swelling (angioedema)
Heat prostration in hot environments (oxybutynin can decrease sweating)

What can patients do to help alleviate or prevent discomfort and side effects?

Pay careful attention to the physician’s instructions, and discuss side effects with your physician.
Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how oxybutynin affects you.
Avoid alcohol. It may increase the risk of serious side effects.

Are there any special precautions patients should be aware of before starting treatment?

Oxybutynin should not be taken by people who have trouble emptying their bladder, slow emptying of the stomach, uncontrolled narrow-angle glaucoma, or allergies to any of the ingredients in oxybutynin.
Patients should inform their physician about all medical conditions, including stomach or intestinal problems, constipation, weak urine stream or trouble emptying the bladder, narrow-angle glaucoma, kidney problems, liver problems, gastric reflux disease, or myasthenia gravis.
Patients should inform their physician of any other medication or supplement they are taking (whether prescription or over-the-counter), including bisphosphonates and anticholinergics.
Patients should tell their doctor if they are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant. It is not known whether oxybutynin will harm an unborn baby.

When should patients notify their physician?

What is a package insert?

Important Limitations of Use

DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTIES

The prescribing physician is solely responsible for making all decisions relating to appropriate patient care including, but not limited to, drugs, regimens, dose, schedule, and any supportive care.

Toviaz®

Mon, 18 Mar 2013 13:21:37 +0000

Class: Other

Generic Name: Fesoterodine

Trade Names: Toviaz®

How is this drug used? Toviaz is used to treat overactive bladder with symptoms of a strong need to urinate right away; leaking accidents due to a strong, immediate need to urinate; or a need to urinate often.

What is the mechanism of action? Toviaz acts by relaxing the bladder muscles. It is a type of drug known as an anticholinergic.

How is Toviaz given (administered)? Toviaz is taken orally (by mouth).

How are patients monitored? Patients will usually have scheduled meetings with their healthcare provider while they are being treated with Toviaz. Patients may undergo physical examinations or other measures to assess side effects and response to therapy.

What are the most common side effects of treatment with Toviaz?

Dry mouth
Constipation

What are some of the less common side effects of treatment with Toviaz?

Trouble emptying the bladder
Dry eyes
Angioedema (swelling)

What can patients do to help alleviate or prevent discomfort and side effects?

Pay careful attention to the physician’s instructions, and discuss side effects with your physician.
Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how Toviaz affects you.
Use caution in hot environments; Toviaz can decrease sweating and contribute to heat illness.
Understand that alcohol increases the likelihood of drowsiness with Toviaz.

Are there any special precautions patients should be aware of before starting treatment?

Toviaz should not be taken by people who have trouble emptying their bladder, slow emptying of the stomach, uncontrolled narrow-angle glaucoma, or allergies to any of the ingredients in Toviaz.
Patients should inform their physician about all medical conditions, including stomach or intestinal problems, constipation, weak urine stream or trouble emptying the bladder, narrow-angle glaucoma, kidney problems, liver problems, or myasthenia gravis.
Patients should inform their physician of any other medication or supplement they are taking (whether prescription or over-the-counter), including antibiotics and antifungal medications.
Patients should tell their doctor if they are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant. It is not known whether Toviaz will harm an unborn baby.

When should patients notify their physician?

What is a package insert?

Important Limitations of Use

DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTIES

The prescribing physician is solely responsible for making all decisions relating to appropriate patient care including, but not limited to, drugs, regimens, dose, schedule, and any supportive care.

Fesoterodine

Mon, 18 Mar 2013 13:21:30 +0000

Class: Other

Generic Name: Fesoterodine

Trade Names: Toviaz®

What is the mechanism of action? Toviaz acts by relaxing the bladder muscles. It is a type of drug known as an anticholinergic.

How is Toviaz given (administered)? Toviaz is taken orally (by mouth).

What are the most common side effects of treatment with Toviaz?

Dry mouth
Constipation

What are some of the less common side effects of treatment with Toviaz?

Trouble emptying the bladder
Dry eyes
Angioedema (swelling)

What can patients do to help alleviate or prevent discomfort and side effects?

Pay careful attention to the physician’s instructions, and discuss side effects with your physician.
Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how Toviaz affects you.
Use caution in hot environments; Toviaz can decrease sweating and contribute to heat illness.
Understand that alcohol increases the likelihood of drowsiness with Toviaz.

Are there any special precautions patients should be aware of before starting treatment?

Toviaz should not be taken by people who have trouble emptying their bladder, slow emptying of the stomach, uncontrolled narrow-angle glaucoma, or allergies to any of the ingredients in Toviaz.
Patients should inform their physician about all medical conditions, including stomach or intestinal problems, constipation, weak urine stream or trouble emptying the bladder, narrow-angle glaucoma, kidney problems, liver problems, or myasthenia gravis.
Patients should inform their physician of any other medication or supplement they are taking (whether prescription or over-the-counter), including antibiotics and antifungal medications.
Patients should tell their doctor if they are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant. It is not known whether Toviaz will harm an unborn baby.

When should patients notify their physician?

What is a package insert?

Important Limitations of Use

DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTIES

The prescribing physician is solely responsible for making all decisions relating to appropriate patient care including, but not limited to, drugs, regimens, dose, schedule, and any supportive care.