Peter Hofland, PhD's Blog – January 2010 Archive (3)

First Targeted Biological Therapy to Show Survival Benefit in Stomach Cancer

The European Commission has approved trastuzumab (herceptin, Roche Pharmaceuticals) in combination with chemotherapy for use in patients with HER2-positive metastatic stomach (gastric) cancer.

Trastuzumab is a humanized antibody, designed to target and block the function of HER2, a protein produced by a specific gene with cancer-causing potential. The mode of action of trastuzumab is unique in that it activates the body’s immune system and suppresses HER2 to target and… Continue

Added by Peter Hofland, PhD on January 29, 2010 at 5:00am — No Comments

National Discussion on Proper Use and Support of Oral Chemotherapy in Cancer Care

The growing use of oral chemotherapeutics brings clinical benefits but also raises questions in prescribing, adherence, accessibility and long term follow-up care. Therfore, US Oncology, Inc. partnered with the Association of Community Cancer Centers, Association of Oncology Social Work, American Society for Clinical Oncology, Community Oncology Alliance, Oncology Nursing Society and the National Patient Advocate Foundation in… Continue

Added by Peter Hofland, PhD on January 22, 2010 at 5:00pm — No Comments

Studies Show Benefit of Advance Detection and Treatment of Gastrointestinal Cancers

A great number of the world's preeminent gastroenterologists will gather during the seventh annual Gastrointestinal Cancers Symposium (ASCO GI) from January 22-24, 2010, at the Orlando World Center Marriott to discuss new research on the treatment of gastrointestinal cancers.

Presentations at the meeting will focus on detection and treatment of gastrointestinal cancers, which includes cancers of the colon/rectum, stomach, pancreas, esophagus, small intestine, anus and… Continue

Added by Peter Hofland, PhD on January 22, 2010 at 5:00pm — No Comments