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	<title>Tahoecancercenter</title>
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	<link>http://tahoecancercenter.com</link>
	<description>Just another Cancercenter.cc Blogs weblog</description>
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		<title>Many Doctors Report Screening for Ovarian Cancer</title>
		<link>http://tahoecancercenter.com/2012/02/09/many-doctors-report-screening-for-ovarian-cancer/</link>
		<comments>http://tahoecancercenter.com/2012/02/09/many-doctors-report-screening-for-ovarian-cancer/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 09 Feb 2012 00:01:23 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ovarian Cancer]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Screening/Prevention Ovarian Cancer]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://tahoecancercenter.cancercenter.cc/2012/02/09/many-doctors-report-screening-for-ovarian-cancer/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Despite evidence to the contrary, one in three US physicians who offer primary care to women believe that ovarian cancer screening is effective. These results were published in the Annals of Internal Medicine. Roughly 70% of ovarian cancers are diagnosed at an advanced stage, highlighting the importance of developing an ovarian cancer screening strategy that [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Despite evidence to the contrary, one in three US physicians who offer primary care to women believe that ovarian cancer screening is effective. These results were published in the <em>Annals of Internal Medicine</em>.</p>
<p>Roughly 70% of ovarian cancers are diagnosed at an advanced stage, highlighting the importance of developing an ovarian cancer screening strategy that accurately detects cancer at an early, more-treatable stage.</p>
<p>Potential ovarian cancer screening tests include the CA-125 blood test and transvaginal ultrasound. Studies have indicated, however, that routine use of these tests in average-risk women with no symptoms of ovarian cancer does not decrease ovarian cancer mortality. Furthermore, screening carries some risks. Women who receive a false-positive test result, for example, often undergo unnecessary additional testing and may even undergo unnecessary surgery.<a title="" href="http://2012news.cancerconsultants.com.php5-21.dfw1-1.websitetestlink.com#_edn1">[1]</a> A false-positive result is one that suggests that cancer may be present even though the woman is actually cancer-free.</p>
<p>As a result of the lack of benefit and the potential for harm, routine ovarian cancer screening with CA-125 and/or transvaginal ultrasound is not recommended by any professional society or group.</p>
<p>To explore whether physician beliefs and practices regarding ovarian cancer screening are consistent with the evidence, researchers surveyed more than 1,000 USphysicians who provide primary care to women.<a title="" href="http://2012news.cancerconsultants.com.php5-21.dfw1-1.websitetestlink.com#_edn2">[2]</a> The physicians were presented with a vignette about a woman’s annual examination. Women were described as having either a low or moderate risk of ovarian cancer. The vignettes did not address women at high risk of ovarian cancer.</p>
<ul>
<li>28 percent of physicians reported sometimes or almost always ordering a screening test (transvaginal ultrasound and/or CA-125) for women at low risk of ovarian cancer.</li>
<li>65 percent of physicians reported sometimes or almost always ordering a screening test for women at moderate risk of ovarian cancer</li>
<li>33 percent of physicians believed that transvaginal ultrasound or CA-125 was an effective screening test.</li>
</ul>
<p>It’s possible that the physicians who responded to the survey differ in their beliefs and practices than the physicians who did not respond. Nevertheless, this study suggests that some physicians routinely offer ovarian cancer screening. This practice is unlikely to benefit women, and carries some risks.</p>
<p>References:</p>
<div></p>
<hr align="left" size="1" width="33%" />
<div>
<p><a title="" href="http://2012news.cancerconsultants.com.php5-21.dfw1-1.websitetestlink.com#_ednref1">[1]</a> Buys SS, Partridge E, Black A et al. Effect of screening on ovarian cancer mortality: the Prostate, Lung, Colorectal and Ovarian (PLCO) Cancer Screening Randomized Controlled Trial. <em>JAMA</em>. 2011;305:2295-303.</p>
</div>
<div>
<p><a title="" href="http://2012news.cancerconsultants.com.php5-21.dfw1-1.websitetestlink.com#_ednref2">[2]</a> Baldwin L-M, Trivers KF, Matthews B et al. Vignette-based study of ovarian cancer screening: do U.S. physicians report adhering to evidence-based recommendations? <em>Annals of Internal Medicine</em>. 2012;156:182-194</p>
</div>
</div>
<p>Copyright &copy; 2012 <a href="http://news.cancerconnect.com/2012/02/09/many-doctors-report-screening-for-ovarian-cancer/">CancerConsultants</a>. All Rights Reserved.</p>
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		<title>Aromasin Provides Breast Benefit But Takes a Toll on Bone</title>
		<link>http://tahoecancercenter.com/2012/02/08/aromasin-provides-breast-benefit-but-takes-a-toll-on-bone/</link>
		<comments>http://tahoecancercenter.com/2012/02/08/aromasin-provides-breast-benefit-but-takes-a-toll-on-bone/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 08 Feb 2012 00:01:59 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Breast Cancer]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Screening/Prevention Breast Cancer]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://tahoecancercenter.cancercenter.cc/2012/02/08/aromasin-provides-breast-benefit-but-takes-a-toll-on-bone/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Among healthy postmenopausal women at increased risk of breast cancer, the aromatase inhibitor Aromasin® (exemestane) reduces the risk of breast cancer but also increases bone loss. These results were published in Lancet Oncology. Drugs that block the effects of estrogen have been shown to reduce the risk of breast cancer in women at high risk [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Among healthy postmenopausal women at increased risk of breast cancer, the aromatase inhibitor Aromasin® (exemestane) reduces the risk of breast cancer but also increases bone loss. These results were published in <em>Lancet Oncology</em>.</p>
<p>Drugs that block the effects of estrogen have been shown to reduce the risk of breast cancer in women at high risk of the disease. Two drugs that have been approved for breast cancer risk reduction in certain groups of women are tamoxifen and Evista® (raloxifene). Tamoxifen is approved for breast cancer risk reduction in women who are at high risk of the disease (including high-risk premenopausal women). Evista—originally approved for the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis—is approved for breast cancer risk reduction in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis or postmenopausal women at high risk of breast cancer.</p>
<p>Aromatase inhibitors are drugs that block the production of estrogen in postmenopausal women. These drugs are commonly used in the treatment of hormone receptor-positive breast cancer, but may also have a role in breast cancer prevention.  The preventive effect of the aromatase inhibitor Aromasin was evaluated in a Phase III clinical trial known as MAP.3. The study enrolled 4,560 postmenopausal women at increased risk of breast cancer. Women were treated with either Aromasin or a placebo, and the results indicated that Aromasin substantially reduced the likelihood of breast cancer.<a title="" href="http://2012news.cancerconsultants.com.php5-21.dfw1-1.websitetestlink.com#_edn1">[1]</a></p>
<p>Although aromatase inhibitors such as Aromasin provide breast cancer benefits, these drugs have also been reported to adversely affect bone. To explore the effects of Aromasin on bone among healthy women who use the drug for breast cancer prevention, researchers evaluated a subset of the women who participated in the MAP.3 trial. Information was available about 242 potmenopausal women who had been followed for two years.<a title="" href="http://2012news.cancerconsultants.com.php5-21.dfw1-1.websitetestlink.com#_edn2">[2]</a></p>
<p>Bone density was assessed using an advanced technique known as high-resolution peripheral quantitative CT. This technique is thought to provide more accurate and more informative measures of bone density than the commonly used dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scan.</p>
<p>During two years of treatment, bone density at the distal radius (wrist) decreased by 1.8 percent among women in the placebo group and by 6.1 percent among women in the Aromasin group. Other measures of bone density were also worse among women treated with Aromasin. The effect of these bone density changes on fracture risk will require longer follow-up.</p>
<p>These results demonstrate that use of Aromasin by healthy postmenopausal women increases bone loss. The benefit of Aromasin for breast cancer prevention will need to be weighed against its harmful effects on bone.</p>
<p>References:</p>
<div>
<hr align="left" size="1" width="33%" />
<div>
<p><a title="" href="http://2012news.cancerconsultants.com.php5-21.dfw1-1.websitetestlink.com#_ednref1">[1]</a> Goss PE, Ingle JN, Ales-Martinez JE et al. Exemestane for breast-cancer prevention in postmenopausal women. <em>New England</em><em> Journal of Medicine</em>. 2011;364:2381-91.</p>
</div>
<div>
<p><a title="" href="http://2012news.cancerconsultants.com.php5-21.dfw1-1.websitetestlink.com#_ednref2">[2]</a> Cheung AM, Tile L, Cardew S et al. Bone density and structure in healthy postmenopausal women treated with exemestane for the primary prevention of breast cancer: a nested substudy of the MAP.3 randomised controlled trial. <em>Lancet Oncology</em>. Early online publication February 7, 2012.</p>
</div>
</div>
<p>Copyright &copy; 2012 <a href="http://news.cancerconnect.com/2012/02/08/aromasin-provides-breast-benefit-but-takes-a-toll-on-bone/">CancerConsultants</a>. All Rights Reserved.</p>
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		<title>American Academy of Pediatrics Recommends HPV Vaccine for Boys</title>
		<link>http://tahoecancercenter.com/2012/02/07/american-academy-of-pediatrics-recommends-hpv-vaccine-for-boys/</link>
		<comments>http://tahoecancercenter.com/2012/02/07/american-academy-of-pediatrics-recommends-hpv-vaccine-for-boys/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 07 Feb 2012 00:01:09 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[General]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Health and Wellness]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://tahoecancercenter.cancercenter.cc/2012/02/07/american-academy-of-pediatrics-recommends-hpv-vaccine-for-boys/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The American Academy of Pediatrics now recommends that boys be vaccinated against human papillomavirus (HPV). Vaccination of boys has also been recommended by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) of the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Human papillomaviruses consist of more than 100 different viruses. Some types of HPV cause warts on [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The American Academy of Pediatrics now recommends that boys be vaccinated against human papillomavirus (HPV). Vaccination of boys has also been recommended by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) of the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.</p>
<p>Human papillomaviruses consist of more than 100 different viruses. Some types of HPV cause warts on the hands or feet, others cause genital warts, and some have been linked with cancer. HPV-related cancers include cervical cancer, vulvar cancer, anal cancer, penile cancer, and certain types of head and neck cancer.</p>
<p>The types of HPV that cause cancer or genital warts are transmitted sexually. HPV infection is extremely common and generally occurs soon after an individual becomes sexually active. Although most infections resolve on their own, some persist and increase cancer risk.</p>
<p>The vaccine that is being recommended for boys is Gardasil®, which protects against four types of HPV: types 6, 11, 16, and 18. HPV types 16 and 18 are linked with cancer and HPV types 6 and 11 account for most cases of genital warts. Gardasil does not prevent infection with all cancer-related types of HPV, but is expected to substantially reduce the risk of HPV-related cancer. Gardasil was originally approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in June 2006 for the prevention of cervical cancer and genital warts in girls. The FDA approved Gardasil for boys in 2010.</p>
<p>In order to be maximally effective, HPV vaccination should occur before a child becomes sexually active. Routine vaccination of boys is recommended at ages 11-12, but the vaccine can also be given to boys as young as nine and to men up to the age of 26. The vaccine is given in three doses.</p>
<p>Reference: American Academy of Pediatrics, Committee on Infectious Diseases. Policy Statement: Recommended Childhood and Adolescent Immunization Schedules—United States, 2012. <em>Pediatrics</em>. 2012;129:385-386.</p>
<p>Copyright &copy; 2012 <a href="http://news.cancerconnect.com/2012/02/08/aromasin-provides-breast-benefit-but-takes-a-toll-on-bone/">CancerConsultants</a>. All Rights Reserved.</p>
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		<title>Rates of Repeat Breast Cancer Surgery Vary Widely</title>
		<link>http://tahoecancercenter.com/2012/02/06/rates-of-repeat-breast-cancer-surgery-vary-widely/</link>
		<comments>http://tahoecancercenter.com/2012/02/06/rates-of-repeat-breast-cancer-surgery-vary-widely/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 06 Feb 2012 00:01:37 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Breast Cancer]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Stage I Node Negative Breast Cancer]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Stages II-III Breast Cancer]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://tahoecancercenter.cancercenter.cc/2012/02/06/rates-of-repeat-breast-cancer-surgery-vary-widely/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Among women who undergo breast-conserving surgery for invasive breast cancer, the likelihood of having a second surgery varies by institution and by surgeon. These results were published in the Journal of the American Medical Association. Breast-conserving surgery (also referred to as a lumpectomy or partial mastectomy) is commonly used for the treatment of early-stage breast [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Among women who undergo breast-conserving surgery for invasive breast cancer, the likelihood of having a second surgery varies by institution and by surgeon. These results were published in the <em>Journal of the American Medical Association</em>.</p>
<p>Breast-conserving surgery (also referred to as a lumpectomy or partial mastectomy) is commonly used for the treatment of early-stage breast cancer. It involves removal of the cancer as well as some surrounding normal tissue. The amount of surrounding normal tissue that is removed is referred to as the surgical margin. If the surgical margin is very small, or if cancer is found at the edge of the removed issue (what is referred to as a “positive” margin), additional surgery may be performed in order to ensure that all of the cancer was removed.</p>
<p>To explore the rate of repeat surgery after breast-conserving surgery, researchers collected information about 2,206 breast cancer patients treated at four largeUSinstitutions. All of the women had undergone initial treatment with breast-conserving surgery.</p>
<ul>
<li>Overall, 23 percent of patients underwent additional breast surgery.</li>
<li>Among women with positive surgical margins, 86 percent underwent additional surgery. Since positive margins increase the risk of cancer recurrence, it’s uncertain why 14 percent of women with positive margins did not undergo additional surgery. There was also notable variability across institutions: the rate of additional surgery among women with positive margins ranged from a low of 74 percent to a high of 94 percent.</li>
<li>Additional surgeries were also performed in women with negative margins, although the benefit of additional surgery in these women is uncertain. The rates of additional surgery were 48 percent when the surgical margin was very small (less than 1.0 mm), 20 percent when the surgical margin was between 1.0 and 1.9 mm, and 6 percent when the surgical margin was between 2.0 and 2.9 mm. And once again, rates of additional surgery varied substantially by institution and by surgeon.</li>
</ul>
<p>These results highlight the ongoing uncertainty about when additional surgery is necessary after breast-conserving surgery. Different institutions and different surgeons take very different approaches. Research that better defines optimal care—and that encourages more consistent care—could benefit women with early breast cancer.</p>
<p>Reference: McCahill LE, Single RM, Aiello Bowles EJ et al. Variability in reexcision following breast conservation surgery. <em>JAMA</em>. 2012:307:467-475.</p>
<p>Copyright &copy; 2012 <a href="http://news.cancerconnect.com/2012/02/06/rates-of-repeat-breast-cancer-surgery-vary-widely/">CancerConsultants</a>. All Rights Reserved.</p>
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		<title>Investigational Drug Improves Outcomes among Prostate Cancer Patients with Bone Metastases</title>
		<link>http://tahoecancercenter.com/2012/02/03/investigational-drug-improves-outcomes-among-prostate-cancer-patients-with-bone-metastases/</link>
		<comments>http://tahoecancercenter.com/2012/02/03/investigational-drug-improves-outcomes-among-prostate-cancer-patients-with-bone-metastases/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 03 Feb 2012 00:01:25 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Prostate Cancer]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Refactory/Recurrent Prostate Cancer]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://tahoecancercenter.cancercenter.cc/2012/02/03/investigational-drug-improves-outcomes-among-prostate-cancer-patients-with-bone-metastases/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[In a Phase III clinical trial, the investigational drug radium-223 chloride improved survival and delayed bone complications among men with hormone-refractory prostate cancer and bone metastases. These results will be presented at the 2012 Genitourinary Cancers Symposium. Metastatic cancer refers to cancer that has spread to distant sites in the body. Several types of cancer—including [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>In a Phase III clinical trial, the investigational drug radium-223 chloride improved survival and delayed bone complications among men with hormone-refractory prostate cancer and bone metastases. These results will be presented at the 2012 Genitourinary Cancers Symposium.</p>
<p>Metastatic cancer refers to cancer that has spread to distant sites in the body. Several types of cancer—including prostate cancer—have a tendency to spread to the bone. Bone metastases can lead to serious problems such as fracture and spinal cord compression, and may require treatment with surgery or radiation therapy.</p>
<p>Radium-223 chloride is an investigational drug that delivers very targeted doses of radiation to areas of cancer in the bone.<br />
To assess whether radium-223 chloride improves outcomes among prostate cancer patients with bone metastases, researchers conducted a Phase III clinical trial among 922 men with hormone-refractory cancer. Patients were treated with best standard treatment plus either radium-223 or a placebo.</p>
<ul>
<li>Median overall survival was 14 months in the radium-223 group and 11.2 months in the placebo group.</li>
<li>In addition to prolonging overall survival, radium-223 also delayed the development of bone complications such as fracture. Time to first bone complication was 13.6 months in the radium-223 group and 8.4 months in the placebo group.</li>
</ul>
<p>The results of this study suggest that radium-223 improves outcomes among prostate cancer patients with bone metastases. Plans are underway to evaluate radium-223 in combination with other cancer treatments, and for patients with other types of cancer.</p>
<p>Reference: Sartor AO, Heinrich D, Helle SI et al. Radium-223 chloride impact on skeletal-related events in patients with castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) with bone metastases: A phase III randomized trial (ALSYMPCA). Presented at the 2012 Genitourinary Cancers Symposium. February 2-4, 2012.San Francisco,CA. Abstract 9.</p>
<p>Copyright &copy; 2012 <a href="http://news.cancerconnect.com/2012/02/03/investigational-drug-improves-outcomes-among-prostate-cancer-patients-with-bone-metastases/">CancerConsultants</a>. All Rights Reserved.</p>
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		<title>New Targeted Drug Improves Prostate Cancer Survival</title>
		<link>http://tahoecancercenter.com/2012/02/02/new-targeted-drug-improves-prostate-cancer-survival/</link>
		<comments>http://tahoecancercenter.com/2012/02/02/new-targeted-drug-improves-prostate-cancer-survival/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 02 Feb 2012 00:01:06 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Prostate Cancer]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Refactory/Recurrent Prostate Cancer]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://tahoecancercenter.cancercenter.cc/2012/02/02/new-targeted-drug-improves-prostate-cancer-survival/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Among men with metastatic, hormone-refractory prostate cancer, treatment with the investigational drug MDV3100 delayed cancer progression and improved overall survival. These results will be presented at the 2012 Genitourinary Cancers Symposium. Prostate cancer is a hormonally sensitive disease that can be controlled for long periods with androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). When prostate cancer stops responding [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Among men with metastatic, hormone-refractory prostate cancer, treatment with the investigational drug MDV3100 delayed cancer progression and improved overall survival. These results will be presented at the 2012 Genitourinary Cancers Symposium.</p>
<p>Prostate cancer is a hormonally sensitive disease that can be controlled for long periods with androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). When prostate cancer stops responding to this treatment, it is referred to as hormone-refractory prostate cancer. Advances have been made in the treatment of hormone-refractory cancer, but challenges remain and new drugs continue to be developed.</p>
<p>MDV3100 is an investigational drug with a new approach to hormonal therapy. The drug interferes with the ability of male hormones to bind to their receptors within a cell, and also reduces the ability of the receptors to enter the nucleus and stimulate cell growth.</p>
<p>To evaluate the safety and efficacy of MDV3100 in the treatment hormone-refractory prostate cancer, researchers conducted a Phase III clinical trial known as AFFIRM. The study enrolled 1,199 men with metastatic, hormone-refractory prostate cancer. All of the men had experienced a worsening of their cancer in spite of previous treatment with hormonal therapy and the chemotherapy drug Taxotere® (docetaxel). Study participants were treated with either MDV3100 or a placebo (sugar pill).</p>
<ul>
<li>At the time of an initial analysis part way through the study, researchers found that MDV3100 had significantly improved overall survival: median overall survival was 18.4 months among men treated with MDV3100 and 13.6 months among men treated with placebo. As a result of this benefit, the study was stopped early, and men in the placebo group were offered MDV3100.</li>
<li>MDV3100 was also found to delay cancer progression: survival without cancer progression was roughly 8 months among men in the MDV3100 group and 3 months among men in the placebo group.</li>
<li>MDV3100 was generally well tolerated. The most common side effects were fatigue, diarrhea, and hot flushes.</li>
</ul>
<p>This study suggests that MDV3100 improves outcomes among men with metastatic, hormone-refractory prostate cancer. MDV3100 is also being evaluated for the treatment of earlier stages of prostate cancer.</p>
<p>Reference: Scher HI, Fizazi K, Saad F et al. Effect of MDV3100, an androgen receptor signaling inhibitor (ARSI), on overall survival in patients with prostate cancer postdocetaxel: Results from the phase III AFFIRM study. Presented at the 2012 Genitourinary Cancers Symposium. February 2-4, 2012.San Francisco,CA. Abstract LBA1.</p>
<p>Copyright &copy; 2012 <a href="http://news.cancerconnect.com/2012/02/03/investigational-drug-improves-outcomes-among-prostate-cancer-patients-with-bone-metastases/">CancerConsultants</a>. All Rights Reserved.</p>
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		<title>Erivedge™</title>
		<link>http://tahoecancercenter.com/2012/02/01/erivedge%e2%84%a2/</link>
		<comments>http://tahoecancercenter.com/2012/02/01/erivedge%e2%84%a2/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 01 Feb 2012 11:34:50 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Biological Therapy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[E]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://tahoecancercenter.cancercenter.cc/2012/02/01/erivedge%e2%84%a2/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Class: Biological Therapy Generic Name: vismodegib Trade Name: Erivedge™ How is this drug used? Erivedge is approved for the treatment of adults with basal cell carcinoma of the skin that has spread to other parts of the body or that has come back after surgery or cannot be treated with surgery or radiation. It is [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>Class:</strong> Biological Therapy</p>
<p><strong>Generic Name:</strong> vismodegib</p>
<p><strong>Trade Name:</strong> Erivedge™</p>
<p><strong>How is this drug used?</strong> Erivedge is approved for the treatment of adults with basal cell carcinoma of the skin that has spread to other parts of the body or that has come back after surgery or cannot be treated with surgery or radiation. It is important for patients to remember that physicians have the ability to prescribe medication for conditions other than those for which the drug has been approved by the FDA. Patients who have received a prescription of this drug for a condition other than for which it is approved may wish to discuss this issue with their physician.</p>
<p><strong>What is the mechanism of action? </strong>Erivedge targets a specific biological pathway (the Hedgehog pathway) that is thought to play a role in more than 90% of cases of basal cell carcinoma. Erivedge inhibits the abnormal signaling in this pathway that contributes to cancer growth.</p>
<p><strong>How is Erivedge given (administered)? Erivedge is taken orally (by mouth). </strong></p>
<p><strong>How are patients monitored?</strong> Patients will usually have scheduled meetings with their healthcare provider while they are being treated with Erivedge.  Typically, blood will be drawn to check levels of blood cells and to monitor functions of some organ systems. Patients may undergo physical examinations and other tests to assess side effects and response to therapy.</p>
<p><strong>What are the most common side effects of treatment with Erivedge?</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Muscle spasms</li>
<li>Hair loss</li>
<li>Taste changes or loss of taste</li>
<li>Weight loss</li>
<li>Fatigue</li>
<li>Nausea</li>
<li>Diarrhea</li>
<li>Decreased appetite</li>
<li>Constipation</li>
<li>Joint pain</li>
<li>Vomiting</li>
</ul>
<p>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.</p>
<p>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.<br />
<strong>What can patients do to help alleviate or prevent discomfort and side effects?</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Pay careful attention to the physician’s instructions, and discuss side effects with your physician.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Are there any special precautions patients should be aware of before starting treatment?</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Patients should inform their physician if they are pregnant, breastfeeding or planning a family in the near future. <strong>Erivedge can cause severe birth defects and fetal death.</strong> Women should have a pregnancy test prior to starting Erivedge and should talk with their doctor about choice and duration of birth control.</li>
<li>Men treated with Erivedge should use a condom and spermicide during sex (even if they’ve had a vasectomy) to avoid exposing their partner to Erivedge through semen.</li>
<li>During treatment and for several months afterwards, patients should not donate blood or blood products.</li>
<li>Patients should inform their physician about all other medical conditions.</li>
<li>Patients should inform their physician of any other medication or supplement they are taking (whether prescription or over-the-counter).</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>When should patients notify their physician?</strong></p>
<p><strong>Tell your doctor if you experience any side effects that bother you or don’t go away. </strong></p>
<p><strong>What is a package insert?</strong><br />
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.</p>
<p>Copyright © 2012 <a href="http://cancerconnect.com">CancerConnect</a> Last updated 01/12.</p>
<p><strong>Important Limitations of Use</strong></p>
<p>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.</p>
<p>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.</p>
<p align="center"><strong>DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTIES</strong></p>
<p><strong>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.</strong></p>
<p>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.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Inlyta®</title>
		<link>http://tahoecancercenter.com/2012/02/01/inlyta%c2%ae/</link>
		<comments>http://tahoecancercenter.com/2012/02/01/inlyta%c2%ae/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 01 Feb 2012 11:26:45 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Biological Therapy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[I]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://tahoecancercenter.cancercenter.cc/2012/02/01/inlyta%c2%ae/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Class: Biological Therapy Generic Name: axitinib Trade Name: Inlyta® How is this drug used? Inlyta is FDA approved for the treatment of advanced renal cell carcinoma (kidney cancer) after one prior drug treatment has not worked. It is important for patients to remember that physicians have the ability to prescribe medication for conditions other than those for which the [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>Class:</strong> Biological Therapy</p>
<p><strong>Generic Name:</strong> axitinib</p>
<p><strong>Trade Name:</strong> Inlyta®</p>
<p><strong>How is this drug used?</strong> Inlyta is FDA approved for the treatment of advanced renal cell carcinoma (kidney cancer) after one prior drug treatment has not worked. It is important for patients to remember that physicians have the ability to prescribe medication for conditions other than those for which the drug has been approved by the FDA. Patients who have received a prescription of this drug for a condition other than for which it is approved may wish to discuss this issue with their physician.</p>
<p><strong>What is the mechanism of action?</strong>  Inlyta is a type of drug known as a kinase inhibitor. It works by blocking certain proteins that play a role in cancer growth</p>
<p><strong>How is Inlyta typically given (administered)?</strong> Inlyta is taken orally (by mouth), typically twice per day.</p>
<p><strong>How are patients typically monitored?</strong> Patients will usually have scheduled meetings with their healthcare provider while they are being treated with Inlyta. Typically, blood will be drawn to check levels of blood cells and to monitor functions of some organ systems. Physical examinations, scans or other measures may also be utilized to assess side effects and response to therapy.</p>
<p><strong>What are the most common side effects of treatment with Inlyta?</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Diarrhea</li>
<li>High blood pressure</li>
<li>Fatigue</li>
<li>Decreased appetite</li>
<li>Nausea</li>
<li>Hoarseness</li>
<li>Hand-foot syndrome</li>
<li>Weight loss</li>
<li>Vomiting</li>
<li>Weakness</li>
<li>Constipation</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>What are some of the less common side effects to be aware of?</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Blood clots</li>
<li>Bleeding problems</li>
<li>A tear (perforation) in the stomach or intestine</li>
<li>Thyroid problems</li>
<li>Reversible posterior leukoencephalopathy syndrome (a condition that involves swelling in the brain).</li>
<li>Increased protein in the urine</li>
<li>Changes in liver function</li>
</ul>
<p>This is not a complete list of side effects. Some patients may experience other side effects that are not listed above. Patients may wish to discuss with their physician the other less common side effects of this drug, some of which may be serious.</p>
<p>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.</p>
<p><strong>What can patients do to help alleviate or prevent discomfort and side effects?</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Pay careful attention to the physician’s instructions and inform the physician of any side effects.</li>
<li>Do not eat grapefruit or drink grapefruit juice. Grapefruit may increase the amount of Inlyta in the blood.</li>
<li>Maintain adequate rest and nutrition.</li>
<li>Eat small meals frequently to help alleviate nausea.</li>
<li>Drink plenty of fluids (patients should ask their physician about the amount of liquid to consume during a day).</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Are there any special precautions patients should be aware of before starting treatment?</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Patients should inform their physician if they are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning a family in the near future. This drug may cause birth defects. It is important to use a form of birth control while undergoing treatment.</li>
<li>It is important that patients inform their physician of any pre-existing conditions, including high blood pressure, thyroid problems, liver problems, history of blood clots or bleeding problems, history of heart attack or stroke, or an unhealed wound.</li>
<li>Patients should inform their physician about any planned surgery.</li>
<li>Patients should inform their physician of any other medication they are taking (whether prescription or over-the-counter, including vitamins, herbs, etc.) as they may interfere with treatment.</li>
<li>Patients should check with their physician before starting any new drug or nutritional supplement.</li>
<li>Patients should inform their physician of any known drug or food allergies or any reactions to medications they have experienced in the past.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>When should patients notify their physician?</strong></p>
<p><strong>Tell your doctor if you experience any side effects that bother you or don’t go away. Also call if you notice signs of thyroid problems (e.g. persistent tiredness, feeling hot or cold, weight gain or loss, voice deepening, hair loss, or muscle cramps), signs of a blood clot (e.g. chest pain or pressure; pain in arms, back, neck, or jaw; shortness of breath; numbness or weakness on one side of the body; trouble talking; headache; vision problems), signs of unusual bleeding  (e.g. bleeding that is heavy or persistent, pink or brown urine, red or black stools, unusual bruising, coughing up or vomiting blood, unexpected pain or swelling; headache or dizziness), signs of a gastrointestinal tear (e.g. severe stomach pain, bloody vomit, red or black stools), or signs of brain problems (e.g headache, seizure, weakness, confusion, high blood pressure, blindness or change in vision, problems thinking).</strong></p>
<p><strong>What is a package insert?</strong></p>
<p>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 by 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.</p>
<p>Copyright © 2012 <a href="http://cancerconnect.com/">CancerConnect</a> Last updated 01/12.</p>
<p><strong>Important Limitations of Use</strong></p>
<p>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.</p>
<p>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.</p>
<p align="center"><strong>DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTIES</strong></p>
<p><strong>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.</strong></p>
<p>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.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Erivedge Approved for Basal Cell Skin Cancer</title>
		<link>http://tahoecancercenter.com/2012/02/01/erivedge-approved-for-basal-cell-skin-cancer/</link>
		<comments>http://tahoecancercenter.com/2012/02/01/erivedge-approved-for-basal-cell-skin-cancer/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 01 Feb 2012 00:01:13 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[General Skin Cancer]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Skin Cancer]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://tahoecancercenter.cancercenter.cc/2012/02/01/erivedge-approved-for-basal-cell-skin-cancer/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the targeted therapy Erivedge™ (vismodegib) for the treatment basal cell carcinoma of the skin that has spread to other parts of the body or that is locally advanced and cannot be treated with surgery or radiation. Basal cell carcinoma is the most commonly diagnosed type of [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the targeted therapy Erivedge™ (vismodegib) for the treatment basal cell carcinoma of the skin that has spread to other parts of the body or that is locally advanced and cannot be treated with surgery or radiation.</p>
<p>Basal cell carcinoma is the most commonly diagnosed type of skin cancer. Most cases can be treated with surgery or other types of local treatment and are not life-threatening, but the condition often occurs on the face and can be disfiguring. In the most severe cases, the cancer may be very large, may invade structures other than the skin, or may spread to other parts of the body. In these advanced cases, it may not be possible to surgically remove the cancer, and treatment options are limited.</p>
<p>Erivedge targets a specific biological pathway (the Hedgehog pathway) that is thought to play a role in more than 90% of cases of basal cell carcinoma. Taken orally, Erivedge inhibits the abnormal signaling in this pathway that contributes to cancer growth.</p>
<p>A study that contributed to the approval of Erivedge enrolled 104 adult patients with locally advanced or metastatic basal cell carcinoma. All study participants were treated with Erivedge. A reduction or elimination of detectable cancer was observed in 43% of patients with locally advanced basal cell carcinoma and 30% of patients with metastatic basal cell carcinoma.</p>
<p>Side effects of Erivedge include muscle spasms, hair loss, weight loss, fatigue, nausea, diarrhea, decreased appetite, constipation, joint pain, vomiting, and changes in taste. Erivedge may cause severe birth defects or fetal death if taken during pregnancy.</p>
<p>Erivedge is the first FDA-approved drug for metastatic basal cell carcinoma.</p>
<p>Reference: FDA News Release. FDA approves new treatment for most common type of skin cancer. January 30, 2012.</p>
<p>Copyright &copy; 2012 <a href="http://news.cancerconnect.com/2012/02/01/erivedge-approved-for-basal-cell-skin-cancer/">CancerConsultants</a>. All Rights Reserved.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Inlyta Approved for Advanced Kidney Cancer</title>
		<link>http://tahoecancercenter.com/2012/01/31/inlyta-approved-for-advanced-kidney-cancer/</link>
		<comments>http://tahoecancercenter.com/2012/01/31/inlyta-approved-for-advanced-kidney-cancer/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 31 Jan 2012 00:01:58 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[General Renal Cancer]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[News]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Renal Cancer]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://tahoecancercenter.cancercenter.cc/2012/01/31/inlyta-approved-for-advanced-kidney-cancer/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The US Food and Drug Administration has approved Inlyta® (axitinib) for the treatment of advanced renal cell (kidney) cancer that has not responded to another drug used for this condition. Inlyta is a drug that is taken orally, as a pill. It works by blocking certain proteins that play a role in cancer growth. A [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The US Food and Drug Administration has approved Inlyta® (axitinib) for the treatment of advanced renal cell (kidney) cancer that has not responded to another drug used for this condition.</p>
<p>Inlyta is a drug that is taken orally, as a pill. It works by blocking certain proteins that play a role in cancer growth.</p>
<p>A study that contributed to the approval of Inlyta for kidney cancer involved 723 patients with metastatic, clear-cell, renal cell cancer.  All patients had experienced cancer progression after initial treatment that included Sutent® (sunitinib), Avastin® (bevacizumab), Torisel® (temsirolimus), or cytokine therapy.  Study participants were assigned to treatment with either Inlyta or Nexavar® (sorafenib).</p>
<p>Inlyta delayed the worsening of the cancer: progression-free survival was 6.7 months among patients treated with Inlyta and 4.7 months among patients treated with Nexavar.</p>
<p>The most common side effects among patients treated with Inlyta were diarrhea, high blood pressure, fatigue, decreased appetite, nausea, loss of voice, hand-foot syndrome, weight loss, vomiting, weakness, and constipation.</p>
<p>The approval of Inlyta specifies that it is for advanced renal cell carcinoma after failure of one prior systemic therapy.</p>
<p>Inlyta is the seventh new drug to be approved for advanced kidney cancer since 2005.</p>
<p>Reference: FDA News Release. <strong>FDA approves Inlyta to treat patients with a type of advanced kidney cancer. January 27, 2012.</strong></p>
<p>Copyright &copy; 2012 <a href="http://news.cancerconnect.com/2012/01/31/inlyta-approved-for-advanced-kidney-cancer/">CancerConsultants</a>. All Rights Reserved.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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