AI Algorithms Outperform Standard Models in Cancer Prediction

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June 08, 2023 – Research from the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) indicates that artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms performed better than the Breast cancer Surveillance Consortium (BCSC) risk model in predicting the five-year risk of the disease.

Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows that 264,000 women and 2,400 men receive a breast cancer diagnosis annually.

Despite the various methods of predicting breast cancer, such as the BCSC risk model, their use can be taxing.
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According to Vignesh A. Arasu, MD, PhD, a Research scientist and practicing radiologist at Kaiser Permanente Northern California, this is mainly because the information they require can be inaccessible or difficult to obtain. However, Arasu noted that technological advances and AI could make the process of evaluating mammograms more efficient.

To compare the abilities of AI to the BCSC model, Arasu conducted a retrospective study that involved negative screening 2D mammograms from Kaiser Permanente Northern California in 2016. From a pool of 324,009 women who were deemed eligible in 2016, mammograms from 13,628 were analyzed. The study also followed the 4,584 patients from the original patient population who received a cancer diagnosis within five years.

Researchers defined three time periods based on when the diagnosis occurred: interval cancer risk, describing diagnoses between zero and one year; future cancer risk, describing diagnoses from between one and five years; and all cancer risk, encompassing the entirety of the five-year period.

Researchers used a total of five AI algorithms for the study, two of which were academic algorithms and three of which were commercially available. After comparing their performance to the abilities of the BCSC risk model, researchers found that the AI algorithms performed better than the standard risk model.

“All five AI algorithms performed better than the BCSC risk model for predicting breast cancer risk at 0 to 5 years,” said Arasu in a press release. “This strong predictive performance over the five-year period suggests AI is identifying both missed cancers and breast tissue features that help predict future cancer development. Something in mammograms allows us to track breast cancer risk. This is the ‘black box’ of AI.”

Beyond this, the AI algorithms presented several other benefits. Researchers also noted that certain AI algorithms performed well in predicting those at risk of interval cancer. This is critical, as this generally requires follow-up mammogram readings.

Also, even AI algorithms that did not have a long training duration performed well.

“We’re looking for an accurate, efficient and scalable means of understanding a women’s breast cancer risk,” said Arasu. “Mammography-based AI risk models provide practical advantages over traditional clinical risk models because they use a single data source: the mammogram itself.”

AI is playing an increasingly significant role in cancer prediction and detection, serving as the foundation of many Research efforts.

A large grant from the National cancer Institute in November 2022 led researchers from the University of California Davis to fuel AI projects to enhance breast cancer screening and risk prediction. Through these efforts, researchers aimed to reduce health disparities.

Often, certain types of regular screening can lead to false positive results. The grant, however, will support researchers as they test whether new AI and imaging features can improve risk prediction models.

Tagged Artificial Intelligence  Predictive Analytics  Risk Assessment

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2021 Year in Review | CancerCare

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It’s hard to believe that 2021 is nearly over! Throughout the year, cancerCare has continued to support the growing and changing needs of those impacted by a cancer diagnosis. We are excited to share a selection highlights and achievements:

In January, we published the updated 2021 edition of our Helping Hand guide. This guide offers information for organizations offering practical and financial support and the 2022 edition will be published soon. In the meantime, search our Online Helping Hand for resources.

Our Pen Pal Program helps older adults reduce feelings of isolation. To mark National Volunteer Month, we interviewed oncology social worker Danielle Saff, MSW, LMSW, and our program partner, Caring for Seniors founder Nina Rawal.

alt textOur first-ever virtual gala raised over $800,000 to support our free programs and services! The event included unforgettable auction items and a performance from Tony Award-winner Laura Benanti.

We partnered with Gryt Health to share the wisdom of one of our social workers, Charlotte Ference, MSW, LMSW, about mental health and coping with cancer.

Our dedicated team planned a full virtual weekend of activities for families coping with the loss of a loved one. cancerCare’s first all-virtual Healing Hearts Family Bereavement Camp was a resounding success!

We took a look back at the first year of our free telephone case management service, helping clients overcome barriers to care.

alt textIn August, we launched Magnolia Purpose in Planning™ in partnership with Triage cancer. Magnolia Purpose in Planning™ connects people affected by cancer to practical and legal resources they need to plan for the future.

To celebrate cancer Out Loud’s season 4 launch, we looked back at the program’s beginnings and its future in a two-part interview with staff.

Our CEO, Patricia J. Goldsmith, was named to the Forbes 50 Over 50 Vision List, alongside figures like Geena Davis, Eileen Fisher and Wally Funk.

The cancerCare Young Professionals Committee’s Scholarship Program re-opened for young adults who have lost a parent to cancer. To commemorate the passing of former YPC board member and client Seynabou Ba, we also created The Seynabou Ba Fund thanks to an anonymous donor.

alt textOne hundred and forty children and teens received backpacks and school supplies as part of our annual Back-to-School Program.

In October, for Breast cancer Awareness Month, we partnered with Awe Inspired to share information on body image and post-treatment survivorship.

For Lung cancer Awareness Month, Long Island Social Services Director Winfield Boerckel, MSW, MBA, LCSW-R, shared his insights and observations after a 25-year career in social work and lung cancer advocacy. Win will be retiring at the end of this year, and we salute him for a quarter century of serving the lung community!

cancerCare is able to serve thousands of clients across the nation each year thanks to the generosity of our supporters. We are grateful each day for the impact we are able to have on those coping with a cancer diagnosis. If you would like to support our free programs and services, please consider making a donation to cancerCare.



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International Conference on Oncology and Cancer Research: Battling Cancer: Knowledge is Power

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Introduction:

Battling cancer: Knowledge is Power

cancer is a formidable adversary that affects millions of lives worldwide. In the face of this daunting challenge, arming oneself with knowledge becomes a powerful weapon. The journey of battling cancer is marked by resilience, hope, and the relentless pursuit of understanding. In this battle, knowledge is not only empowering but also a key to making informed decisions, fostering hope, and ultimately improving the quality of life for those affected by this relentless disease. 🌟🦋

Subtopics:

Early Detection and Screening 🕵️‍♀️🔍The critical role of early cancer detection
The importance of regular screenings and diagnostic tests
Strategies for raising awareness about cancer screenings

Treatment Options and Innovations 💉🔬The evolving landscape of cancer treatments
Promising advancements in Award-call-for-profile/”>Chemotherapy, Conference-registration-euro/”>immunotherapy, and targeted therapies
Integrative and complementary approaches to cancer treatment

Support and Coping Strategies 💪🤗Emotional and psychological support for cancer patients and their families
Coping mechanisms for dealing with the emotional toll of cancer
The significance of support groups and mental well-being

Nutrition and Lifestyle 🥦🏋️‍♂️The role of a balanced diet in cancer prevention and recovery
Exercise and physical activity as part of cancer management
Holistic approaches to promoting a healthy lifestyle during and after cancer treatment

cancer Research and Advocacy 🧪📢The impact of cancer Research on diagnosis and treatment
The role of patient advocacy in advancing cancer care
Fundraising and awareness campaigns for cancer-related causes

These subtopics collectively emphasize the power of knowledge in the battle against cancer, shedding light on various aspects of prevention, treatment, and support for those affected by this formidable disease. 🌼🔗

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Liver cancer: Risk factors and prevention

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October is Liver cancer Awareness Month, which makes this a good time to learn more about risk factors for liver cancer and what you can do to prevent it.

More than 41,000 new cases of primary liver cancer and intrahepatic bile duct cancer will be diagnosed in the U.S. this year, and nearly 30,000 people will die of these diseases, according to the American cancer Society.

Liver cancer is cancer that begins in the cells of your liver, which is a football-sized organ in the upper right portion of your abdomen. The liver is essential for digesting food and ridding your body of toxic substances.

Intrahepatic bile duct cancer, which sometimes is classified as a type of liver cancer, occurs in the parts of the bile ducts within the liver. Bile ducts carry bile, a digestive fluid, and they connect your liver to your gallbladder and small intestine.

Risk factors

Factors that increase the risk of primary liver cancer include:

  • Chronic infection with HBV or HCV. Chronic infection with the hepatitis B virus (HBV) or hepatitis C virus (HCV) increases your risk of liver cancer.
  • Cirrhosis. This progressive and irreversible condition causes scar tissue to form in your liver and increases your chances of developing liver cancer.
  • Certain inherited liver diseases. Liver diseases that can increase the risk of liver cancer include hemochromatosis and Wilson’s disease.
  • Diabetes. People with this Blood sugar disorder have a greater risk of liver cancer than those who don’t have diabetes.
  • Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. An accumulation of fat in the liver increases the risk of liver cancer.
  • Exposure to aflatoxins. Aflatoxins are poisons produced by molds that grow on crops that are stored poorly. Grains and nuts can become contaminated with aflatoxins and end up in foods made of these products.
  • Excessive alcohol consumption. Consuming more than a moderate amount of alcohol daily over many years can lead to irreversible liver damage and increase your risk of liver cancer.

Prevention

Strategies for preventing liver cancer include:

  • Reduce your risk of cirrhosis. Cirrhosis is scarring of the liver, and it increases the risk of liver cancer. You can reduce your risk of cirrhosis if you drink alcohol in moderation, if at all, and maintain a healthy weight.
  • Get vaccinated against hepatitis B. You can reduce your risk of hepatitis B by receiving the hepatitis B vaccine. The vaccine can be given to almost anyone, including infants, older adults and those with compromised immune systems.
  • Take measures to prevent hepatitis C. No vaccine for hepatitis C exists, but you can reduce your risk of infection by taking care to avoid unprotected sex with a partner infected with HBV, HCV or any other sexually transmitted infection. Don’t inject illegal drugs. If you do, make sure any needle you use is sterile and don’t share it. And before getting a piercing or tattoo, check out the shops in your area and ask staff members about their safety practices. Needles that are not properly sterilized can spread the hepatitis C virus. Seek treatment for hepatitis B or hepatitis C.
  • Treatments are available for hepatitis B and hepatitis C infections. Research shows that treatment can reduce the risk of liver cancer. Ask your health care professional about liver cancer screening.
  • For the general population, screening for liver cancer hasn’t been proved to reduce the risk of dying of liver cancer, and it isn’t generally recommended. People with conditions that increase the risk of liver cancer, including hepatitis B, hepatitis C and liver cirrhosis, might consider screening. Discuss the pros and cons of screening with your health care team. Together you can decide whether screening is right for you based on your risk. Screening typically involves a Blood test and an abdominal ultrasound exam every six months.

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Private vs NHS Cancer Treatment

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As things get more and more desperate in the cancer world the advertising for private treatment and test etc is being ramped up. Naturally, rather than sitting on a never ending waiting list, many people are tempted to take the private route, if they have the funds. In my opinion this is ok for many of the more basic procedures and tests. However cancer is a lot more complex than that, and can throw up situations that nobody could foresee.

Back in 2007 when I was first diagnosed, I did have private healthcare cover, but chose to stay on the NHS path. Of course, things were very different then in cancer, than they are today. With all the complex treatment I have received I know for a fact that I have cost millions so far. Most of that would not have been covered, especially for in excess of 16 years, with ongoing complications. Please have a check through some of the positives and negatives before you make your decision.

cancer Treatment in the UK: Navigating Your Options

A cancer diagnosis leaves you facing many difficult decisions. One of the first is whether to pursue treatment through the NHS or private healthcare. It’s a complex choice with pros and cons to weigh carefully. This in-depth blog examines the key factors to consider when deciding between private and NHS cancer care.

Wait Times

One major advantage of private treatment is more rapid access to tests and specialists. After an urgent GP referral, NHS guidelines say you should start treatment within 62 days. However, waits can extend beyond this target during busy periods, averaging around 80 days. Delays happen due to limited equipment, staff shortages, high demand, and other constraints. With private care, you’ll likely begin the diagnostic process within days or weeks, then swiftly proceed to treatment. This faster timeline provides comfort and can be critical for cancers that are aggressive or fast-spreading.

On the other hand, NHS wait times for common cancer types may be reasonable if you have an early stage, non-urgent case. Waits also depend on your location – certain NHS trusts consistently hit targets, while others lag behind. Weigh your personal risk factors and cancer subtype when deciding if NHS wait times could impact outcomes. Know your rights to initiate private care if the NHS cannot start treatment within 62 days.

Access to New drugs and Innovative Treatments

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Private facilities often provide the latest cancer treatments months before they are available on the NHS. This early access includes emerging immunotherapy drugs, targeted therapies, robotic surgery techniques, advanced cyberknife radiation, and more. By the time NHS funding and approval happens, a new drug or technology could be up to a year old. This NHS delay is due to cost analysis requirements and slower policy change

While cutting edge treatments can extend and improve life for cancer patients, risks and benefits are still being established. The innovative nature means long term effects are unknown. NHS doctors follow strict protocols to provide treatments proven highly effective, although considered “standard” versus “revolutionary”. Discuss all pros and cons of new versus established approaches with specialists to make the best decision for your diagnosis.

Choice of Specialists and Hospitals

With private insurance or self-pay, you can pick any qualified specialist in the UK. This allows shopping around to find experts best suited to treat your cancer type and stage. Check credentials, read reviews, understand success rates. You may even choose facilities like Harley Street clinics or prestigious hospitals like The London oncology Clinic. This flexibility and control over physicians can provide added confidence in your care team.

On the NHS, your specialist is assigned based on location and availability. However, UK oncologists undergo rigorous training and demonstrate extensive knowledge. NHS hospitals also employ strict credentialing and performance standards. While your doctors may not be household names, they have the skills and experience needed to deliver high quality treatment. Seek multiple opinions and factor doctor rapport into your NHS/private decision.

Hotel-Like Amenities and Facilities

Private UK clinics aim to make patients comfortable by providing premium facilities more akin to hotels than hospitals. Expect freshly renovated private rooms, better food options, lounges with coffee bars and snacks, etc. The pleasant aesthetics and surroundings can enhance healing and quality of life during treatment. Additionally, private hospitals invest heavily in the latest cancer screening, imaging, and treatment technology to improve precision.

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However, don’t discount NHS capabilities. Critical equipment like PET and CT scanners meet rigorous standards at NHS cancer hubs. What NHS facilities may lack in luxury, they make up for in expertise and capacity to handle complex cases. Still, outdated or overloaded equipment can lead to frustrating delays at times. If your local trust has known equipment shortages, going private may provide better access.

Integrated Support Services

Another private care advantage is access to comprehensive support services all under one roof. This includes counselling, nutrition advice, physical therapy, pain management, wig fittings, support groups and more. Having coordinated specialists makes this holistic care more convenient. NHS providers have been slow to take this integrated approach, but select trusts now offer more robust services for counselling, rehab, and lifestyle needs. Check what’s available through both your local NHS trust and private options.

Costs and Medical Insurance

The most prohibitive downside of private cancer care is cost, with no price regulation. You pay out-of-pocket for all expenses unless you have extensive health insurance. Without insurance, private cancer treatment can soar above £20,000 for testing, surgery, drugs, hospital fees and more. Even low-grade, early cancers often exceed £15,000 privately. Compare this to NHS care which is free at point of use for UK residents.

Many Brits take out medical insurance, but most policies have limits or exclusions for serious illnesses like cancer. Pre-existing conditions may also disqualify you from full coverage. Expect costs for drugs, alternative treatments, travel or clinical trial entry to fall outside policy limits. Read fine print carefully and get cost estimates beforehand.

Weighing Up Your Options

In summary, private cancer care offers faster access, more control over specialists, access to emerging treatments, premium facilities and amenities, and integrated support services. But quality NHS treatment has its own strengths like rigorous standards, highly qualified teams, and avoiding financial strain.

Think critically about your unique diagnosis, risk level, finances and personal priorities. Get multiple opinions on optimal treatment plans. Discuss options frankly with both private and NHS oncologists. This allows making the most informed decision possible on whether private or NHS cancer care better suits your medical and lifestyle needs.

As always these are my own opinions based on personal experiences. Please feel free to share your own below.

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Battling Cancer: Knowledge is Power

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In the fight against cancer, knowledge is your most powerful weapon ,Start by building a strong support system with your healthcare team, Educate yourself about your diagnosis and treatment options, Connect with others who’ve walked a similar path, sharing experiences and hope, Maintain a healthy lifestyle to boost your body’s natural defenses, Embrace the love and support of your loved ones; they’re your strength, Remember, in the battle against cancer, knowledge is power. You’re stronger than you think

More information – https://oncologyandcancerresearch.blogspot.com/

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New Research Identifies Subtypes In Difficult-To-Treat Ovarian Cancer

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oncology.pencis.com/”>Every year, approximately 400 women die of ovarian cancer in Finland, while the corresponding figure for Europe overall is more than 40,000. Ovarian cancer is a genetically very heterogeneous disease, which makes it exceptionally difficult to study and treat. The prognosis is particularly poor in ovarian high grade serous carcinoma (HGSC), a subtype of ovarian cancer. Less than 40% of patients with this subtype survive five years after their diagnosis.oncology.pencis.com/”>
The researchers were able to classify HGSC tumours into three groups on the basis of genomic changes. The groups differ in the intracellular signalling pathways, the ways in which the tumours grow, and response to treatment. The findings can help therapies to become more accurate and help patients with HGSC.

“Prior studies have not identified generally accepted subgroups of HGSC tumours that would enable targeted treatment in the same way as, for example, in breast cancer. Our study is a step forward in identifying effective targeted therapies,” says Professor of Systems Biology Sampsa Hautaniemi from the University of Helsinki.

Three signalling pathways
The researchers analysed genomics data on cancer tumours collected in the DECIDER project from 148 patients with HGSC treated and recruited in Turku University Hospital. Depending on the stage of development, they divided the tumours into three evolutionary states: evolving, maintaining and adaptive. The classification was based on the tumours’ pattern of spread and their development in metastases. Depending on the group, the cancer populations grew up in combinations of either genetically different or clonal cells. These combinations either continued to evolve in metastases or remained unchanged.

The researchers identified signalling pathways characteristic of each tumour group, which make these tumours biologically distinct.

“There are targeted drugs already in clinical use for many of them. We demonstrated that a single signalling pathway, PI3K/AKT, is particularly important for certain patients. While the importance of this pathway has been known, it was not known who are most likely to respond to treatment targeted at this signalling pathway. Based on our findings, we are better able to identify the subset of patients likely to benefit from such treatment,” says Postdoctoral Researcher Jaana Oikkonen from the University of Helsinki.

Tumour evolution should be investigated
The study approaches the issue from the perspective of tumour evolution, or how the tumour develops and spreads into new metastases. This approach is currently important in Research on HGSC as the knowledge available is largely based on studies with small sample or patient numbers.

“The dataset we analysed was one of the largest, if not the largest, to date in terms of HGSC tumour samples. This is yet another indication of the capacity for top-level Research in Finland in spite of our small population,” Hautaniemi says.

“Our findings bring order to the genomic chaos of HGSC. Now, the entire Research field will advance faster, making it easier to target therapies. Of course, there is still work to be done. Further Research is being carried out on, for instance, what would be the easiest way to classify patients into the three groups identified,” says Postdoctoral Researcher Alexandra Lahtinen from the University of Helsinki.

The results of the joint study carried out by the University of Helsinki, Turku University Hospital, HUS Helsinki University Hospital, the University of Turku and the Danish cancer Society Research Center were published in the cancer Cell journal in May.

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Brain and CNS Tumors

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Introduction: Brain and central nervous system (CNS) tumors are a unique and challenging category of cancers that originate within the brain or spinal cord. These tumors can have profound effects on a person's cognitive, physical, and emotional well-being. Accurate diagnosis and staging are critical for determining the appropriate treatment approach and optimizing outcomes in patients facing these complex conditions.

Subtopics in Brain and CNS Tumor Diagnosis and Staging:

Neuroimaging and Diagnostic Techniques : Explore the advanced neuroimaging technologies, including MRI, CT scans, and PET scans, used to visualize and diagnose brain and CNS tumors, enabling precise localization and characterization of lesions.

Histopathology and Tumor Classification : Understand how pathologists analyze tissue samples obtained through biopsies or surgical procedures to determine the tumor's histological type, grade, and genetic markers, which play a vital role in treatment planning.

Grading and Staging Systems : Examine the grading systems that classify brain and CNS tumors based on their malignancy and the staging systems that define the extent of tumor spread, assisting in treatment decisions and prognosis.

Molecular Profiling and Targeted Therapies : Investigate the emerging field of molecular profiling in brain and CNS tumors, identifying specific genetic mutations and alterations that may be amenable to targeted therapies, offering more precise treatment options.

Multidisciplinary Tumor Boards : Explore the collaborative approach involving neurosurgeons, oncologists, radiation therapists, and other specialists in tumor boards to develop comprehensive treatment plans tailored to the individual patient, considering surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, and supportive care.

Thoracic Oncology (Lung Cancer)

Published on by Oncology

 

Introduction: Thoracic oncology, with a primary focus on lung cancer, is a specialized field dedicated to the understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of cancers affecting the lungs and other thoracic structures. Lung cancer, in particular, poses significant challenges due to its prevalence and diversity. Advances in thoracic oncology have led to improved detection methods and innovative treatments, offering hope to those affected by this complex disease.

Subtopics in Thoracic Oncology (Lung Cancer):

Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC) : Explore the most common type of lung cancer, NSCLC, and its subtypes, understanding how advancements in targeted therapies and immunotherapies are transforming treatment options.

Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC) : Delve into the aggressive nature of SCLC and the challenges in its diagnosis and treatment, including chemotherapy and radiation therapy approaches.

Early Detection and Screening : Examine the importance of early detection through lung cancer screening programs, such as low-dose CT scans, in improving survival rates and outcomes.

Precision Medicine and Biomarkers : Investigate the role of genetic and molecular profiling in identifying specific mutations and biomarkers that guide personalized treatment strategies for lung cancer patients.

Multidisciplinary Care and Palliative Support : Explore the collaborative efforts of oncologists, surgeons, radiation therapists, and palliative care teams in providing comprehensive care for lung cancer patients, addressing both curative and supportive aspects.

Cancer Care and management

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Cancer Care and management

Introduction: Cancer care and management encompass a comprehensive approach to understanding, diagnosing, treating, and supporting individuals affected by cancer. With advancements in medical science and technology, the field has evolved to provide more personalized and effective care for cancer patients.

Subtopics in Cancer Care and Management:

Early Detection and Screening: Early diagnosis is crucial for successful cancer treatment. This subtopic explores various screening methods, including mammography, colonoscopy, and genetic testing, to detect cancer at its earliest stages.

Treatment Modalities: Cancer treatment options have expanded beyond surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Subtopics here may include immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and precision medicine approaches tailored to individual patient profiles.

Palliative Care and Symptom Management: This subtopic focuses on improving the quality of life for cancer patients through pain management, emotional support, and symptom relief, especially for those in advanced stages of the disease.

Cancer Survivorship: After completing cancer treatment, patients often face ongoing challenges related to physical and emotional well-being. Subtopics here address survivorship care plans, rehabilitation, and psychosocial support.

Cancer Research and Clinical Trials: Ongoing research is essential for advancing cancer care. This subtopic delves into the latest breakthroughs, clinical trials, and innovative therapies on the horizon for cancer patients.

Nutrition and Lifestyle: Nutrition plays a crucial role in cancer prevention and management. Topics may include dietary guidelines, exercise, and lifestyle modifications for cancer patients.

Psychosocial Support: Cancer care extends beyond the physical aspect, and emotional well-being is equally important. Subtopics include counseling, support groups, and addressing the psychological impact of cancer.

Cancer Genetics and Risk Assessment: Understanding the genetic factors contributing to cancer risk and hereditary forms of cancer is vital. Topics may include genetic counseling and testing for high-risk individuals.

Patient-Centered Care: The importance of tailoring cancer care to individual patient needs is growing. This subtopic explores patient-centered approaches, shared decision-making, and patient empowerment in the treatment process.

Global Perspectives on Cancer Care: Different regions and countries face unique challenges in cancer care. This subtopic examines disparities in cancer care access, international collaborations, and global efforts to combat cancer.

These subtopics collectively contribute to a holistic approach to cancer care and management, ensuring that patients receive the best possible care throughout their cancer journey.