ABSTRACT
Pancreatic cancer, with its alarming rising incidence, is predicted to become the second deadliest type of solid tumor by 2040, highlighting the urgent need for improved diagnostic and treatment strategies. Despite medical advancements, the five-year survival rate for pancreatic cancer remains about 14%, dropping further when metastasized. This review explores the promise of biomarkers for early detection, personalized treatment, and disease monitoring. Molecular classification of pancreatic cancer into subtypes based on genetic mutations, gene expression, and protein markers guides treatment decisions, potentially improving outcomes. A plethora of clinical trials investigating different strategies are currently ongoing. Targeted therapies, among which those against CLAUDIN 18.2 and inhibitors of Claudin 18.1, have shown promise. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) has emerged as a powerful tool for the comprehensive genomic analysis of pancreatic tumors, revealing unique genetic alterations that drive cancer progression. This allows oncologists to tailor therapies to target specific molecular abnormalities. However, challenges remain, including limited awareness and uptake of biomarker-guided therapies. Continued research into the molecular mechanisms of pancreatic cancer is essential for developing more effective treatments and improving patient survival rates.
ABSTRACT
The constantly escalating population of cancer survivors worldwide has prompted a focused exploration of their unique needs and experiences within the context of healthcare medicine. This review initiates its analysis inspired by Dr. Lidia Schapira's insightful keynote conference on the Survivorship 1.0 and Survivorship 2.0 Programs, shedding light on their implementation challenges and setting the stage for a comprehensive analysis of cancer survivorship initiatives. Within the transformed landscape of cancer care, patient-centric strategies embedded in cancer survivorship programs comprising vital elements such as connection, support, and education are presented. While placing cancer recurrence surveillance at the forefront, the review underlines concern regarding the potential oversight of the enduring impact on mental and physical health. Dr. Schapira's insights further extend into the exploration of mental health challenges faced by survivors, promoting an examination of diverse strategies to address these concerns. Furthermore, the discussion continues toward promising areas of research, notably Precision Medicine's role in de-escalating cancer therapies, and advocates for measures such as early cancer awareness and timely referrals to supportive services. Highlighting the significance of education, the role of online resources in enhancing the knowledge of healthcare practitioners and future generations in cancer care is then explored. The paper concludes by presenting some of the most prominent global current survivorship programs, identifying critical knowledge gaps in cancer care and projecting future developments aimed at delivering accurate and holistic care, improving the quality of life for survivors, and enhancing both mental and physical well-being. Drawing upon the insights from Dr. Schapira, this review lays the groundwork for a nuanced exploration of cancer survivorship and its multifaceted implications.
ABSTRACT
Metabolic syndrome X has been known to be a risk factor for the development of cardiovascular dysfunction. Insulin resistance, diabetes mellitus and serum lipid abnormalities, which are all seen in metabolic syndrome X, have been found to negatively impact heart function, leading to heart failure in particular. Heart failure is a condition resulting when the heart is unable to perform its function of providing sufficient blood flow to meet the body's requirements. The treatment of heart failure in metabolic syndrome X varies based on the various components of metabolic syndrome X, which include obesity, hyperglycemia, hypertension and dyslipidemia. Obesity is regarded as one of the derangements seen in patients with metabolic syndrome X. It is a significant risk factor in the development of cardiovascular disease, which may eventually lead to heart failure. However, the obesity paradox suggests that obesity provides a higher chance of survival in patients with metabolic syndrome and heart failure. This review article focuses on the pathophysiology of heart failure in patients who already have metabolic syndrome X, as well as the therapeutic management complexity of the two conditions taking into consideration the protective role provided by obesity.
