- Researchers from several academic institutions in the U.S. conducted a prospective cohort study on the impact of physical activity on cancer. It demonstrated that physical inactivity, or a greater sedentary lifestyle, was associated with higher (up to 82%) cancer mortality. At the same time, a moderate intensity exercise reduced the risk of cancer death by 31%. The study was published in Lancet Oncology.
- Colitis is a known digestive tract side effect of immunotherapy in cancer treatment. A new study by U.S. researchers established that vitamin D supplementation before starting cancer treatment reduced the risk of developing colitis in patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors by 65%. This study was published in Cancer.
- A novel formulation of an existing drug abiraterone acetate used for prostate cancer (currently available as a commercial product Zytiga) can make a significant impact on the quality of life of patients treated with it. Australian scientists enhanced the drug’s properties “by using oils to mimic pharmaceutical food effects,” leading to fewer side effects and smaller doses needed for treatment. This preclinical study was published in the International Journal of Pharmaceuticals.
- Scientists from Europe established that “targeting cancer’s ability to process fat” by using a combination of a new class of drugs called cPLA2 inhibitors and a fat free diet makes cancers less reliant on fat for their growth and spread. This animal study was published in Cell.