Oncology news

 

Nanoparticles release drugs only at the site of lung cancer 
German scientists have developed nanoparticles that release drugs only in the presence of lung tumour cells in human and mouse lungs. 8 Mar 2015

The 'Angelina Jolie effect' caused surge in women testing for breast cancer gene
Testing for the BRCA 1 gene mutation soared by nearly 40% in the week that Angelina Jolie announced that she had had an elective double mastectomy because she carried the gene, according to a new AARP Public Policy Institute study. 13 Feb 2015

ICR develops avatars to display important cancer cell features to aid diagnosis
The Institute of Cancer Research, London has developed new software to visualise data generated by imaging of cancer cells in a more intuitive way than graphs or charts. The program called PhenoPlot generates ‘avatars’ of cancer cells based on imaging data collected by robotic microscopes. 12 Jan 2015

New nuclear and fluorescence imaging agent to guide cancer surgery
Grenoble-based CEA-Leti and cancer research cluster CLARA have developed a new fluorescence-imaging agent that could significantly increase surgeons’ accuracy when removing cancerous tumours. 8 Jan 2015

Curie-Cancer and GamaMabs Pharma renew partnership to develop antibody for ovarian cancer
Curie-Cancer, the commercial arm of Institut Curie, and GamaMabs Pharma have announced the extension of their partnership to develop the 3C23K antibody for the treatment of gynaecological cancers. 19 Dec 2014

Diverse gut bacteria linked to reduced risk of breast cancer
Postmenopausal women with diverse gut bacteria have a reduced risk of breast cancer through having a more favourable ratio of oestrogen metabolites, according to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism (JCEM). 30 Oct 2014

Drug discovery system for cancer is failing patients, says leading expert
The development of new drugs and treatments for cancer has failed to keep up with advances in knowledge because the system is broken, according to Professor Paul Workman, Interim Chief Executive of The Institute of Cancer Research. 28 Oct 2014

Philips and Breast Cancer Care launch breast-check mobile app
To mark breast cancer awareness month, Philips in partnership with the charity Breast Cancer Care has launched an updated version of their Breast Cancer Care mobile app. 28 Oct 2014

New Oncology and Gustave Roussy collaborate on genetic testing of tumours
Cologne-based cancer diagnostics developer New Oncology has announced that it has entered into a collaboration agreement with Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, a research institute based in Paris. 14 Oct 2014

Lung cancer can stay dormant for 20 years until triggered by genetic faults
Researchers at Cancer Research UK have discovered that lung cancers can lie dormant for over 20 years until genetic faults trigger sections to grow and the cancer becomes aggressive. 13 Oct 2014

AstraZeneca and Cancer Research UK establish Cambridge lab to develop cancer drugs
MedImmune, the global biologics research and development arm of AstraZeneca and Cancer Research UK, with its commercial arm, Cancer Research Technology (CRT), are establishing a joint laboratory in Cambridge, UK to study novel biologic cancer treatments. 26 Sept 2014

New technique to test for prostate cancer
A team of researchers at Guangdong Medical College in China has demonstrated the potential of a new test to detect prostate cancer combining surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) with a new technique called support vector machine (SVM). 9 Sept 2014

Botox can slow tumour growth
Research at Columbia University Medical Center and the Norwegian University of Science shows that cutting off the nerves to tumours using surgery or Botox can reduce the growth of cancer cells. 22 Aug 2014

Increase in body weight linked to increased risk of 10 cancers
A study following the health of more than 5 million adults in the UK has found that people with a higher body mass index (BMI) have an increased risk of developing 10 of the most common cancers. 14 Aug 2014

New pathology software improves cancer diagnosis
New software developed jointly by the MedUni Vienna and the Vienna-based firm Tissuegnostics helps pathologists to identify cancerous tissue with greater accuracy and remove some of the variability in current methods based on visual analysis of tissue samples. 14 Aug 2014

Oraya Therapeutics awarded grant to develop gold nanoparticle cancer therapy
Oraya Therapeutics, Inc. has been awarded a US$215,000 Small Business Technology Transfer Grant by NIH to investigate how Oraya Therapy can further enhance the treatment of wet age-related macular degeneration. 12 Aug 2014

Endomagnetics completes acquisition of the ACT Portfolio
The ACT portfolio provides Endomagnetics with a cancer therapeutics platform while maintaining synergies with its magnetic nanoparticle technology. 24 June 2014

Clearbridge BioMedics launches device that isolates circulating tumour cells from blood
Clearbridge BioMedics has launched a new cancer diagnostic device, the ClearCell FX System, which is able to isolate and capture circulating tumour cells (CTCs) from a blood sample.

Adaptimmune announces partnership with GSK for cell-based cancer therapies
Adaptimmune Limited has announced  a multi-million dollar strategic collaboration and licensing agreement with GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) for the development and commercialisation of its lead clinical cancer programme. 5 Jun 2014

Almac validates novel gene biomarker test for ovarian cancer patients
The company has announced the validated results of the ALM AADx assay, a gene expression test that identifies a subgroup ovarian cancer patients that have a good prognosis following chemotherapy. 5 Jun 2014

Mayo Clinic launches 50-gene cancer panel test for more targeted chemotherapy
The Mayo Clinic in Minnesota, US, has launched CANCP, a new gene panel cancer test to help tailor chemotherapy to the individual patient based on the unique genomic signature of the patient’s tumour. 21 May 2014

Film dressing prevents skin reaction during radiotherapy
Mepitel Film dressings prevent the development of painful skin ulcerations associated with breast cancer radiation therapy, according to a NEW study. 6 May 2014

MRI-guided biopsy for brain cancer improves diagnosis
Neurosurgeons at UC San Diego Heath System have combined real-time MRI technology with non-invasive cellular mapping techniques to develop a new biopsy method that increases the accuracy of brain cancer diagnosis. 6 May 2014

ValiRx cancer screening gene biomarker granted Japanese patent
ValiRx Plc has announced that NAV3, its cancer screening test gene biomarker has received patent approval by the Japanese patent office (JPO). 6 May 2014

Nanosensors detect cancer from breath
A collaboration of researchers in Switzerland and Japan has developed portable cancer detection units using coated nanocantilevers for diagnosis from breath. 25 Apr 2014

New method to keep leukaemia stem cells in culture will help drug discovery
Two new chemical compounds that can keep alive cultures of leukemic stem cells have been discovered by a team from Université de Montréal and Maisonneuve-Rosemont Hospital in Quebec, Canada. 15 April 2014

Adaptimmune awarded £2.1m for T cell cancer therapy development
Adaptimmune has been awarded a grant of £2.1 million from the UK Biomedical Catalyst Fund for the development of its second engineered T cell therapy programme into the clinic in triple negative breast cancer. 28 Mar 2014

Endomagnetics wins business award for breast cancer treatment product
Cambridge-based Endomagnetics has been given the award for Best New Product or Business Model in this year’s Business Weekly awards for companies in the East of England. 20 Mar 2014

Novel technique identifies breast cancer tissue using non-coding RNA markers
The presence of small non-coding sections of the nucleic acid RNA in breast tissue can be used to predict if individuals have breast cancer, according to new findings by the Cancer Genome Atlas project. 6 Mar 2014

Alere launches 15-minute genetic test for influenza A and B in Europe
Point-of-care diagnostics company Alere Inc. has launched in Europe the Alere i Influenza A & B test, a molecular test that detects and differentiate influenza A and B virus in less than 15 minutes. 20 Feb 2014

ValiRx granted European patent for genetic-based cancer test
ValiRx Plc has been awarded patent approval by the European Patent Office for its cancer screening test NAV3, which uses a gene biomarker to detect specific cancers. 20 Feb 2014

Computer controlled movement of patient and radiotherapy can target tumour more precisely
Computer controlled movement of the patient on a radiotherapy couch with the 3D control of the radiation beam could deliver high doses to tumours while sparing nearby organs. 10 Feb 2014

Fruit flies can smell cancers
Researchers from the Universities of Konstanz and La Sapienza have recorded the antennae of fruit flies detecting odours given off by cancer cells and distinguishing different types of cancer. 3 Feb 2014

Mass spectrometry imaging can transform tissue pathology analysis
A team from Imperial College London has developed a method to analyse mass spectrometry data from a tissue sample to create a detailed map of its chemical composition. 3 Feb 2014

New type of MRI shows spread of bone marrow cancer
A pioneering MRI technique developed by the Institute of Cancer Research in London can reveal where cancer is present in bone marrow across the whole body. 28 Jan 2014

New microscopy technique rapidly detects skin cancer tissue during surgery
The US National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering has developed a microscopic technique to analyze and remove cancerous tissue rapidly in the operating room, removing the need for lengthy repeated tissue sampling and checking. 28 Jan 2014

University of Surrey device identifies cancerous cells by electrical properties
A University of Surrey research team has developed an innovative device that can differentiate between normal and unhealthy cells by analysing their electrical properties. 3 Jan 2013

Ultrasound microscope identifies cancerous tissue by acoustic profile
Professor Naohiro Hozumi of Toyohashi University of Technology has developed an ultrasonic microscope to differentiate living tissue and cell specimens for medical purposes. 3 Jan 2013

Hunt for RNA biomarkers for prostate cancer and other diseases
The RIBOLUTION project in Germany is developing a platform for the identification and validation of RNA biomarkers for prostate cancer and selected diseases based on genome-spanning screening. 19 Dec 2013

Proteins in circulating tumour cells can predict response to chemotherapy
Scientists from the University of Granada have demonstrated, for the first time, that the presence of specific proteins occurring in circulating tumour cells (CTCs) in blood can predict with great precision a patient's response to chemotherapy. 19 Dec 2013

Genetic test helps optimise cancer treatment
Testing a tumour for certain genes could help decide whether the patient would benefit from receiving additional drugs with a radiotherapy programme, according to a study by the Manchester Cancer Research Centre. 4 Dec 2013

Gut microorganisms affect response to cancer treatment
A healthy population of microorganisms that live off other microorganisms in the intestine is required for optimal response to cancer therapy, according to a study led by scientists at the US National Cancer Institute (NCI). 24 Nov 2013

Online training improves diagnosis of skin cancer in primary care
Primary care doctors who took an online training course on diagnosing skin cancer significantly improved their skill to properly diagnose and manage benign and malignant lesions, according to a national study from Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit. 21 Nov 2013

Multispectral camera highlights cancer remnants for removal during surgery
Researchers at the Fraunhofer Project Group for Automation in Medicine and Biotechnology (PAMB) have developed a multispectral fluorescence camera system that can make hidden tumour cells visible during surgery. 20 Nov 2013

Combining MRI with ultrasound gives a quicker technique for breast cancer biopsy
The Fraunhofer Institute for Biomedical Engineering has developed a technique that combines MRI with ultrasound scans to make biopsy taking quicker and less traumatic for breast cancer patients. 18 Nov 2013

RNA molecule in blood could be indicator of pancreatic cancer
A specific RNA molecule is present in the blood of most pancreatic cancer patients, according to research at Indiana University, suggesting it could be a diagnostic marker for the usually fatal disease. 14 Nov 2013

New hope for blood test to catch pancreatic cancer early
A simple blood test to detect gene fragments unique to pancreatic cancer cells could be on the horizon following promising results in a small preliminary study at Johns Hopkins Medicine in the US. 11 Nov 2013

Immunocore achieves research milestone in GlaxoSmithKline collaboration
Oxford-based Immunocore has announced the achievement of the first cancer drug development milestone in its research and licensing agreement with GSK, triggering a first payment. 7 Nov 2013

High hormone levels could be cause of breast cancer in BRCA gene carriers
Abnormal levels of female hormones in the blood could be the trigger causing women with the faulty genes BRCA 1 and BRCA 2 to develop breast cancer instead of other cancers. 24 Oct 2013

immatics seals €34m financing for development of renal cancer vaccine
Tuebingen-based immatics biotechnologies has closed a €34 million Series D financing round to fund development of its lead multi-peptide cancer vaccine, IMA901. 16 Oct 2013

Aberdeen University looks for breast cancer drug in shark blood
AICR, the Scottish cancer research charity, has awarded biologists from the University of Aberdeen £200,000 to test if an antibody found in shark blood can inhibit the growth of cancer cells. 11 Oct 2013

Nanodiamonds carry chemotherapy drugs direct to brain tumour
Microscopic carbon-based particles called nanodiamonds are able to carry chemotherapy drugs directly into brain tumours in a new technique developed by the Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center at UCLA. 8 October 2013

Ibuprofen inhibits growth of some cancers
Long-term use of Ibuprofen could give protection against prostate cancer, some colon cancers and several other cancers, according to research at the University of Bath. 2 Oct 2013

Skin cancer tissue rapidly identified during surgery
The University of Nottingham has developed an accurate technique to rapidly identify the margins of cancerous tissue during surgery that combines auto-fluorescence of skin tissue with Raman laser spectroscopy. 23 Sept 2013

Raman laser highlights tumour cells in brain tissue during surgery
A new laser-based technology can identify cancerous cells during surgery, enabling surgeons to make sure they remove all the cells that could develop into a new tumour. 10 Sept 2013

Collagen can suppress growth of cancer
Collagen, the most abundant protein in the human body, triggers chemical signals that help prevent the growth of cancer, according to a new study by the Institute of Cancer Research, London. 6 Sept 2013

ValiRx wins €1.6m grant to develop genetics-based cancer treatment
ValiRx plc and consortium member Pharmatest Services have been awarded a €1.6 million Eurostars grant to progress the pre-clinical studies of its novel product VAL101. 29 Aug 2013

Labelled gold nanoparticles hold key to targeted stem cell therapy
Researchers at Southampton and Cambridge Universities have developed a technique using gold nanoprobes to identify different types of cells, so that they can target the right ones in stem cell therapies. 28 Aug 2013

Carbon ion radiotherapy effective for treating inoperable spinal tumours
A new study has shown that carbon ion radiotherapy can control cancer growth and prolong survival in patients with spinal tumours. 21 Aug 2013

Abnormal ageing gene linked to blood cancer
A variant of a gene that helps control ageing in humans by acting as a cell’s internal clock has been linked to blood cancer in a major new study by the Institute of Cancer Research (ICR), London. 19 Aug 2013

Rapid tissue analysis shows stage of bowel cancer for fine tuning treatment
Researchers at Imperial College have measured the stage of a tumour by analysing the chemicals produced by the tumour cells using high-resolution magic angle spinning nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. 15 Aug 2013

Cancer cells can be destroyed by blocking single protein
Research at Southampton University has discovered a protein that is not necessary in normal cells but is important to the survival of cancerous cells. 29 July 2013

Electrosurgical knife instantly detects cancer during surgery
The iKnife is a surgical knife that cuts flesh using electrical current and analyses the vapour to detect characteristic chemicals of specific cancers using a mass spectrometer. 18 July 2013

Computer models predict effectiveness of colon tumour therapy
Computer models of the behaviour of colon tumour cells in response to drugs have shown that a combination of drugs blocks a survival mechanism triggered by using one drug alone. 17 July 2013

New breast cancer test is better at diagnosing need for chemotherapy
A new genetic test can better determine the likelihood of recurrence of a common form of breast cancer and help decide on the need for chemotherapy. 2 July 2013

Junk DNA plays active role in cancer
A human gene sequence until recently considered ‘junk' could promote cancer progression, according to research at the University of Nottingham. 4 June 2013

New trial drug shows potential for treating kidney cancers, obesity and diabetes
An experimental drug designed to block a protein that is overactive in kidney cancer significantly reduced tumour growth in animals. 30 Apr 2013

Postcode lottery for breast cancer diagnosis in England
Women in deprived areas of England are more likely to die from breast cancer due to delay in diagnosing the disease. 30 Apr 2013

Personalising PSA test using genetic tests could improve prostate cancer diagnosis
Testing for genetic variants that can increase serum prostate specific antigen (PSA) concentrations could avoid unnecessary biopsies for some men and eliminate false complacency for others. 25 Apr 2013

 

Nanosensor detects cancer cells
A nanosensor that can detect cancerous skin cells by identifying mutated RNA has been developed by the Swiss Nanoscience Institute of the University of Basel and the Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research in Lausanne. 27 Feb 2013

Elastography shows promise for detecting cancers without biopsy
Researchers from the University of Oslo and Beaujon University Hospital in Paris are to start clinical trials of a new method for detecting cancer that measures the elasticity of body tissue. 18 Feb 2013

Pathology image analysis software improves certainty of cancer diagnosis
Scientists at the University of Oslo have developed pathology image analysis software that can determine the seriousness of a cancer prognosis with 80% certainty, halving errors. 8 Feb 2013

ESMO calls for caution over current expectations of personalised medicine
The European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) has issued a statement to dispel the myth that personalised medicine is already a reality for all cancer types and all cancer patients. 4 Feb 2012

BMJ raises concerns over effectiveness of costly melanoma procedure and witheld clinical trial data
The BMJ has published a special report this week that finds that thousands of melanoma patients around the world are undergoing an unnecessary expensive and invasive procedure called sentinel node biopsy. 11 Jan 2013

New model helps predict chance of surgical cure for prostate cancer
Prostate cancer experts have developed an updated version of a statistical model, called the Partin Tables, which helps assess the chance of a surgical cure for men diagnosed with prostate cancer. 9 Jan 2013

New radiotherapy treatments developed by Polish researchers 
The new technology to produce 90Y (yttrium) and 177Lu (lutetium) radioisotopes was developed at the NCBJ Radioisotope Centre. 3 Jan 2013

Microscopic filter captures cancer cells circulating in blood stream
The filter could enable detection of tumour cells circulating in blood well before they subsequently colonize organs and form tumours. 17 Dec 2012

NPL develops radionuclide tracing system for radiotherapy
Scientists from the National Physical Laboratory (NPL) have developed a system of radionuclide traceability for a new radiotherapy treatment for neuroendocrine tumours. 13 Dec 2012

Endomagnetics selected as high-potential company by Future 50 Project
Endomagnetics is developing nanomagnetic technology as an alternative to the radioisotopes currently used for tracking the spread of cancer. 30 Nov 2012

Royal Marsden and ICR open groundbreaking Centre for Molecular Pathology
Scientists will be able to monitor whether new-generation cancer drugs are successful to an unprecedented degree of detail following the opening of a new world-class research facility. 21 Nov 2012

Quarter of bowel cancers only discovered from emergency hospital admission
A national audit has found that about a quarter of bowel cancer patients in England are only diagnosed with the disease after an emergency admission to hospital. 31 Oct 2012

Melanoma cells become invisible to immune system due to inflammation caused by treatment
A research team led by Bonn University has discovered that an inflammatory reaction caused by the treatment given for a tumour causes the tumour cells to temporarily alter their external characteristics and thus become invisible to the body's defence cells. 16 Oct 2012

Novel cancer treatment using drug release controlled by NIR-stimulated nanoparticles
Controlled drug release at the site of a tumour using near-infrared stimulation of nanoparticles shows promise as a non-invasive treatment for deep cancer. 27 Sept 2012

Nanoparticle form of tea polyphenols  reverses antioxidant properties
When used in bulk form, these polyphenols showed antioxidant responses, but the nanoform at higher concentrations exhibited pro-oxidant effects. 10 Sept 2012

Pulsed UVC irradiation selectively kills cancer cells
A new and highly effective cancer therapy that irradiates cancer cells with high intensity pulsed ultraviolet C (UVC) light has been developed at the Tokai University School of Medicine in Japan. 30 Aug 2012

Brainlab releases advanced version of ExacTrac patient positioning system
Brainlab has launched its new ExacTrac 6.0 Patient Positioning system, delivering key improvements for both frameless radiosurgery and radiotherapy treatments. 29 Aug 2012

Fourth new successful drug for prostate cancer treatment in two years
Clinical trials have shown the drug enzalutamide can significantly extend life and improve quality of life in men with advanced prostate cancer. 15 Aug 2012

Paoli-Calmettes Institute and IBM collaborate to better inform cancer patients
The study that will demonstrate the effects of how oncologists, integrating visual information into their consultations, assist in communicating the diagnostic and treatment risks to cancer patients. 12 July 2012

Dual drug therapy offers new hope for deadly childhood cancer
A new drug combination that boosts the effectiveness of a gene-targeting treatment could offer hope to children with neuroblastoma. 12 July 2012

New semen test for testicular cancer
The Rigshospitalet in Copenhagen has found a new and simple way of detecting testicular cancer before it starts, by detecting markers in a sperm sample. 25 June 2012

New diagnostic tool increases the value of Kancera's ROR cancer treatment
Kancera and the Karolinska Institute have developed antibodies that permit the development of a diagnostic tool to identify cancer patient response to treatment using Kancera’s ROR inhibitors. 25 June 2012

Electronic sensor can detect prostate cancer cells
Scientists at the Barcelona University have developed the main components of a biosensor containing several hundred nanometric sized optoacoustic biosensors and that can detect cancer cells in urine. 4 June 2012

Nanoparticles revive failed cancer drug
A University of North Carolina (UNC) team has developed nanoparticle drug carriers that have successfully delivered therapeutic doses of a cancer drug that had previously failed clinical development due to pharmacological challenges. 14 May 2012

Immune-system-boosting cancer treatment described in Nature Medicine
The new reagents known as ImmTACs (immune mobilising mTCR against cancer) mobilise T cells to kill cancer cells and overcome immune tolerance to cancer. 14 May 2012

Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center and IBM collaborate to develop oncology decision support with IBM Watson
The tool, built upon IBM Watson, will provide medical professionals with improved access to current and comprehensive cancer data and practices. 30 Apr 2012

Celtic Therapeutics invests $50M in developing antibody drug conjugates
A new company will be based in Switzerland to develop, ADCs (developed in London!) which are fast becoming the most exciting new class of oncology drugs as they combine the specificity of antibodies with the cytotoxic power of novel “warhead” chemistries. 30 Apr 2012.

DNA sequencing of tumour enables ultimate personalised cancer treatment
DNA sequencing technology has been used to not only identify mutations at the root of a patient’s tumour but to map the genetic evolution of disease and monitor response to treatment at Washington University School of Medicine in St Louis. 10 April 2012

Laser-heated carbon nanotubes kill breast cancer stem cells
Researchers at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center in the US have shown that injecting multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) into tumours and heating them with a 30-second laser treatment can kill them. 24 Feb 2012

 New thyroid uptake system from Southern Scientific
The Capintec Captus 700t has a new colour touchscreen that simplifies and speeds-up thyroid uptake, wipe, bio-assay, blood volume and RBC survival tests. 23 Feb 2012

Endomagnetics wins ACES award for most successful university spinout
Endomagnetics is developing advanced magnetic sensing technology for use in breast cancer staging, based on technology developed between University College London and at the University of Houston. 23 Feb 2012

Light against Cancer raises awareness of photodynamic therapy to treat tumours
The German organisation Light against Cancer is raising awareness of Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) as a new therapeutic approach for treating cancer without the side effects of chemotherapy or radiotherapy. 23 Feb 2012

Feature: New technology can bring breast cancer screening into the twenty-first century
In October last year the UK announced the first independent review of the breast cancer screening programme. Jack Kaye, CEO of Westhouse Medical Services, provides an insight into breast cancer screening and analyses the options available for the progression of the screening programme. 20 Feb 2012.

GE healthymagination Fund invests in Check-Cap's ingestible imaging capsule
GE Financial Services has announced that it has invested in Israeli company Check-Cap Ltd, a developer of an ingestible X-ray imaging capsule that may help detect intestinal polyps and colorectal cancer. 6 Feb 2012

Endomagnetics wins CE Approval for Sienna+ Tracer for breast cancer care
The injectable tracer is used in combination with the ultra-sensitive SentiMag instrument in sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB), currently the standard of care in tracking the spread of breast cancer. 19 Jan 2012

BerGenBio completes $9m financing for anti-tumour compound development
The financing will be used primarily to take lead compound BGB324 into clinical trials and to develop a companion diagnostic. 19 Jan 2012

Siemens launches website for public to learn about medical radiation
Siemens has set up a new online information source for anyone facing an X-ray or a nuclear medicine examination. 5 Jan 2012

Cancer Research Center of Languedoc-Roussillon starts TrueBeam radiotherapy
A 19-year-old brain tumour patient has become the first person in France to be treated using the TrueBeam radiotherapy treatment system from Varian Medical Systems. 18 Dec 2011

ORCA Therapeutics gets €5m innovation credit for prostate cancer compound
The credit is from the Dutch govwernment agency Agentschap NL  to support development of ORCA's  lead compound ORCA-010 for prostate cancer. 3 Dec 2011

Holoxica creates 3D hologram of human liver for cancer treatment
The achievement paves the way for a breakthrough in the way surgeons plan liver operations to remove tumours. 3 Dec 2011

Michelson Diagnostics shareholders invest £1.9m to expand sales of skin cancer scanner
Michelson Diagnostics has announced an investment of £1.912 million by shareholders Octopus Investments, Catapult Venture Managers and individual investors from London Business Angels. 28 Nov 2011

Endomagnetics raises additional funding for novel cancer diagnostics probe
Cambridge-based Endomagnetics has raised funding totalling £1.8 million. The Company has also announced a move to Cambridge and two new appointments as it expands its operations. 23 November 2011

Rohde & Schwarz supplies analysers to Micrima for wideband radio breast cancer screening
Rohde & Schwarz has announced it has supplied its high-speed vector network analysers to Bristol University spin-out Micrima for the clinical trials of their revolutionary radio wave breast cancer screening technique. 20 Nov 2011

London gets new cord blood donation facility to support stem cell treatments
A new specialist collection service for lifesaving cord blood started at University College Hospital (UCH) in London last week. It is rich in stem cells that can help patients whose own bone marrow is not working. 7 Nov 2011

New method for detecting breast cancer uses magnetic particles and SQUID
A new and potentially more sensitive method of detecting breast cancer has been developed that uses tumour-targeting magnetic iron oxide particles and superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID) sensors. 28 Oct 2011

Taking aspirin long-term halves risk of hereditary cancers
A decade-long study in 16 countries has found that taking aspirin regularly halves the risk of getting hereditary cancers. 28 Oct 2011

Annual screening with X-rays does not reduce lung cancer deaths
A trial involving 150,000 patients that gave half annual chest X-rays for up to four years showed that screening did not significantly reduce death from lung cancer compared to the unscreened group. 27 October 2011

GE announces $100m innovation challenge and $1bn R&D investment in cancer care
GE has launched a new healthymagination initiative to accelerate cancer innovation and improve care and announced a US$100 million global open innovation challenge for breast cancer diagnostics. 2 Oct 2011

New cancer treatment could destroy all types of solid tumour
The new cancer treatment being developed at the University of Bradford has so far been tested on breast, colon, lung, sarcoma and prostate cancers. 15 Sept 2011

Almac and Queen's University Belfast in £4.4m cancer research collaboration
The unique academic-business collaboration will help develop better tests for diagnosing and treating prostate, ovarian and breast cancer. 15 Sept 2011

Diabetes drug combined with glycolysis inhibitor effective in killing cancer cells
Blocking a key controller of energy production in cancer cells and treating them with the diabetes drug metformin effectively starves cancer cells. 13 Sept 2011

Harmless soil bacteria used to deliver drugs direct to tumour cells
A genetically altered soil bacteria that specifically targets tumours could soon be used as a vehicle to deliver drugs to destroy cancer cells. 8 Sept 2011

Mechanism that triggers resistance to radiation after exposure discovered
University of Oslo researchers have discovered how exposure to radiation can make cancer cells and normal cells resistant to radiotherapy and chemotherapy. 8 Sept 2011

Dogs can detect lung cancer from breath
Sniffer dogs could be used for the early detection of lung cancer from the breath of patients, according to researchers at Schillerhoehe Hospital in Germany. 25 August 2011

Lack of vitamin D increases the aggressiveness of colon cancer
Researchers at the Vall d’Hebron Institute of Oncology (VHIO), in collaboration with the Alberto Sols Institute of Biomedical Research (CSIC-UAB), have confirmed the role of vitamin D in inhibiting colon cancer. 16 August 2011

New evidence that TB vaccine can stimulate body to fight cancer
Researchers at St George’s University of London have found a potential new mechanism to stimulate the body’s own ability to fight cancer using the BCG vaccine. 16 August 2011

Michelson Diagnostics targets US market for skin cancer imaging products
Michelson Diagnostics has announced plans to expand availability of its revolutionary products for skin cancer imaging in the United States with the formation of a US subsidiary. 5 August 2011

Significant rise in survival rates for elderly lung cancer patients treated using radiosurgery
Details of advances in the use of stereotactic body radiotherapy to treat early stage lung cancer in both high risk operable and inoperable cases were presented at the biennial World Conference for Lung Cancer in Amsterdam. 21 July 2011

TSB awards £6m for R&D into tumour profiling for personalised medicine
Six projects are to receive nearly £6 million from the UK Technology Strategy Board to research tumour profiling and data capture. 21 June 2011

Philips provides imaging systems for new children’s oncology centre in Moscow
Philips, in partnership with cancer charity the Grant Life Foundation, is providing imaging technology to a new Children’s Oncology complex in Moscow, which opened on the International Children’s Day on 1 June. 3 June 2011

A+PSA test gives better results in testing for prostate cancer
A new test for prostate cancer that measures levels of prostate specific antigen (PSA) as well as six specific antibodies found in the blood of men with the disease was more sensitive and more specific than the conventional PSA test. 31 May 2011

Brainlab HybridArc software for radiosurgery gains US clearance
The software increases the efficiency of existing Linac radiosurgery hardware and offers fast, high precision volumetric arc radiosurgery treatment. 19 May 2011

IBA and Philips partner to create patient-centric proton therapy centres
The design of the centres focuses on the emotional and physical aspects of patient care, with the patient surrounded by light, image and sound, making the treatment experience as soothing and transparent as possible. 19 May 2011

New prostate cancer drug discovered by ICR approved by FDA
A drug for treating metastatic prostate cancer discovered at The ICR has been approved by the US FDA. Abiraterone acetate was invented by Professor Mike Jarman and his colleagues at the Cancer Research UK Cancer Therapeutics Unit. 18 May 2011

The status of molecular radiotherapy in the UK — new report from BIR
A new report from The British Institute of Radiology (BIR) provides an overview of the current practice of molecular radiotherapy (MRT) in UK hospitals, both in respect of the availability of treatments and the range of doses delivered. 19 April 2011

IBA takes 25% stake in German radiopharmaceuticals supplier PET Net
Belgian company Ion Beam Applications (IBA) S.A. has taken a minority stake in PET Net GmbH and PET Net Solutions AG, providers of PET radiopharmaceuticals to nuclear medicine facilities in Germany. 19 April 2011

Oncodesign offers patient-derived colorectal tumour models for drug development
Dijon-based Oncodesign is offering what it claims is the world’s most comprehensive collection of human colorectal cancer models directly developed from patient’s tumours. 11 April 2011

First new drug for advanced melanoma in a decade
Ipilimumab has become the first new drug to be FDA approved for the treatment of previously treated metastatic melanoma for more than a decade. 31 March

CEA-Leti and partners to develop novel injectable tracer for cancer treatment
CEA-Leti has announced that with four French partners it is developing an injectable tracer that can provide both nuclear imaging in the pre-operative evaluation of tumors and optical imaging during ablation or biopsy. 19 March 2011

Boron neutron capture therapy pioneered for head and neck cancer treatment
A new type of radiotherapy, boron neutron capture therapy, has been successfully used to treat patients with advanced head and neck cancer who have not responded to previous treatments and generally have poor prognosis. 13 March 2011

Varian enables clinical data reporting to support NHS goals for UK cancer care
Varian Medical Systems has completed two data compatibility initiatives aimed at reducing data input for users of its cancer therapy systems in the UK National Health Service. 8 March 2011

Genetic test could predict adverse reaction from bone cancer treatment
Genetic tests could predict whether bone marrow cancer treatments including thalidomide are likely to give patients a debilitating side-effect. 2 March 2011

No increase in brain cancer during increase in mobile phone use in UK
Researchers from the University of Manchester used publicly available data from the UK Office of National Statistics to look at trends in rates of newly diagnosed brain cancers in England between 1998 and 2007 and found no significant change. 22 Feb 2011

Tumours treated with chemotherapy drugs guided and measured by MR imaging
Royal Philips Electronics and Eindhoven University of Technology have developed a method of MRI-guided chemotherapy delivery to tumours to improve treatment without increasing adverse side effects. 21 Feb 2011

First patient trials of DNA vaccine for leukaemia
A new DNA vaccine to treat leukaemia that has been developed by scientists from the University of Southampton is being trialled on patients for the first time in the UK. 16 Feb 2011

First patient in Africa treated with RapidArc radiotherapy
A 66-year-old prostate cancer patient has become the first person in Africa to be treated using RapidArc technology from Varian Medical Systems. 14 Feb 2011

Enzyme playing key role in breast cancer also affects bowel cancer growth
The enzyme lysyl oxidase (LOX) which plays a key role in the spread of breast cancer is also important in bowel cancer growth and spread so could also be targeted using an existing drug that reduces LOX. 7 Feb 2011

UK government launches bowel cancer awareness campaign
The ‘Be Clear on Cancer’ campaign is being piloted in two regions and if successful will be rolled out across the country. Adverts will appear on TV, radio and in newspapers for seven weeks. 7 Feb 2011

Dogs can detect scent of early stage bowel cancer
Dogs can detect the scent of bowel cancer in both breath and stool samples with a very high degree of accuracy, even in the early stages of the disease. 7 Feb 2011

First five-year outcomes on CyberKnife radiosurgery for prostate cancer
Accuray has announced the first published five-year outcomes on low risk prostate cancer patients treated with the CyberKnife robotic radiosurgery system. 31 Jan 2011

Varian receives US clearance for proton therapy system
Varian Medical Systems has received FDA 510(k) clearance for its proton Therapy System which generates protons for precision radiotherapy of lesions, tumours, and conditions where radiation treatment is indicated. 31 Jan 2011

Philips receives CE mark for PET/MRI system — first new modality in 10 years
The combined system integrates the molecular imaging capabilities of PET with the superior soft tissue contrast of magnetic resonance to image diseased cells as they proliferate in soft tissue. 24 Jan 2011

iCAD completes acquisition of Xoft
Cancer diagnostic imaging systems developer iCAD, Inc. has completed the previously announced acquisition of Xoft, Inc., developer of the Axxent eBx electronic brachytherapy system. 7 Jan 2011

New light-activated platinum compound more effective at killing cancer cells
A newly discovered light-activated platinum-based compound is up to 80 times more powerful than other platinum-based anti-cancer drugs and can be used to kill cancer cells in a much more targeted way than similar treatments. 21 Dec 2010

ChipDX discovers genetic signature for early-stage colon cancer
ChipDX LLC has discovered and validated a genetic signature for early-stage colon cancer and is developing an online screening application to enable clinicians to more accurately identify risk of recurrence.

PETNET Solutions signs new contract with the Paul Strickland Scanner Centre
PETNET Solutions and The Paul Strickland Scanner Centre have renewed a PET radiopharmaceutical supply agreement. 16 Dec 2010

Portable device for breast cancer screening moves closer to market
A new portable device that detects breast cancer based on tissue elasticity has come a step closer to market with its licensing by a medical device company. 10 Dec 2010

Prostate cell regulating protein can transform healthy cells into cancer
The protein, called Bmi-1, has a crucial role in regulating the self-renewal of normal prostate stem cells. It has now been found to aid the transformation of healthy cells into prostate cancer cells. 9 Dec 2010

Personalised medicine requires new strategies for cancer drug development
To make the most of this coming transformation, governments, pharmaceutical companies and doctors urgently need to adapt the way drugs are developed. 1 Dec 2010

Institute Gustave-Roussy begins treating patients with advanced brachytherapy
The Institute Gustave-Roussy (IGR) in Paris is offering cancer patients advanced brachytherapy after installing Varian Medical System's GammaMed PDR afterloaders. 12 Nov 2010

Keeping a cool head during chemotherapy reduces hair loss
Huddersfield company Paxman Ltd is exhibiting its next-generation hair-loss prevention systems, Orbis I & II,  at MEDICA in Dusseldorf this month. 11 Nov 2010

IBA introduces compact proton cancer therapy system
This single-room system offers a smaller cyclotron, a shorter proton-beam route from the cyclotron to the treatment room, and a more compact gantry. 9 Nov 2010

Calypso's Dynamic Edge Gating Technology reduces side effects of radiation therapy
Dynamic Edge Gating Technology allows radiation therapists to set motion thresholds which disable radiation delivery if the targeted tissue moves outside the preset threshold. 9 Nov 2010

IBA to install proton therapy centre in Tennessee
Belgian company IBA has been awarded a contract by ProVision Trust and The Proton Therapy Center, LLC (TPTC) to install a proton therapy facility in Knoxville, Tennessee. The contract is worth US$70-80 million over 10 years. 3 Nov 2010

Octopus invests £1.7m in Michelson Diagnostics' OCT scanner
The investment from Octopus will help fund the manufacture and placement of VivoSight scanners with key-opinion-leaders for clinical and economic validation, and will support the growth of the sales infrastructure in the UK and USA. 26 Oct

First patient in Italy treated with TruBeam radiotherapy
The Humanitas Clinic in Rozzano-Milan has treated the first person in Italy using a revolutionary new linear accelerator from Varian medical Systems.

Roundtable on dendritic cell therapy for cancer treatment
The goal of the round table was to obtain a status about dendritic cell therapy in cancer treatment to be able to provide accurate information about this therapeutic option. 22 Oct 2010

Knifeless radiosurgery for Northwest England
Cancer patients in Northwest England will have access to advanced radiosurgery when the new Christie radiotherapy centre at Salford Royal Hospital opens in summer 2011. 15 Oct 2010

Siemens mammography software combines multiple imaging types on single workstation
The latest version of Syngo Mammo Report, the mammography workstation from Siemens, for the first time combines tomosynthesis, 3D ultrasound and 3D magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with 2D mammography. 4 Oct 2010

Dutch research reactor adapted to produce molybdenum-99 for cancer diagnostics
The Technical University of Delft is adapting its nuclear research reactor to be used as a back-up facility for the production of the radioactive isotope molybdenum-99, when supplies run out. 4 Oct 2010

Feature: Mo99 and Tc99m in personalized medicine: easing the supply crisis
Personalized medicine is the use of new methods of molecular analysis to better manage a patient’s disease or predisposition to disease. Currently impacting the efficiency of nuclear medicine is an ongoing shortage of the radioisotope Molybdenum 99 (Mo99). The production of this sensitive raw material is central in the production of Technetium 99m (Tc99m), which is used in nearly 60% of all patient scans in personalized medicine. 8 September 2010

PSA blood test predicts risk of death from prostate cancer
The PSA blood test commonly used to test for prostate cancer can accurately predict the risk that a 60 year old man will die from prostate cancer within the next 25 years. 23 Sept 2010

New genetic variant increasing risk of bowel cancer identified
A single variant in a person’s DNA can promote bowel cancer development, according to an international study led by scientists at The Institute of Cancer Research (ICR). 23 Sept 2010

IBA sells first carbon beam therapy system
Belgian company IBA has sold the prototype of its next generation carbon therapy system to French company CYCLHAD and signed an R&D agreement with Saphyn to jointly develop the potential of carbon beam therapy. 23 Sept 2010

MIRACLE project lab-on-chip systemMIRACLE project launched to develop lab-on-chip for cancer diagnosis
The EU funded MIRACLE project, launched on 1 September, aims to develop an operational lab-on-chip for the isolation and detection of circulating and disseminated tumour cells in blood. 3 Sept 2010

Scancell licences human antibody from Cancer Research Technology
Cancer Research Technology has licensed Nottingham University spinout Scancell Holdings to use a human antibody known as 105AD7. 18 August 2010

Natural orifice surgery removes cancerous prostate through penis
Urologists at Mayo Clinic in Arizona have developed a new surgical procedure for the treatment of prostate cancer through the urethra, so that there is no incision on the body. 12 August 2010

Cytori gains EU approval for stem-cell-based tissue reconstruction after breast cancer
Cytori Therapeutics has received expanded European approval (CE Mark) for its Celution System, a medical device that extracts and separates stem and regenerative cells from a patient’s own fat tissue, and applications for soft tissue repair. 12 August 2010

MabCure's blood test for ovarian cancer gets positive results
Cancer diagnostics developer MabCure, Inc. has announced that a confirmatory study demonstrated the company’s proprietary monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) successfully identified ovarian cancer in blood (94% accuracy) and with no false positives or cross-reactions with benign ovarian tumours or healthy blood. 12 August 2010

Varian and Brainlab Combine TrueBeam STx with the Novalis Radiosurgery Program
Varian Medical Systems and Brainlab are expanding their radiosurgery partnership to incorporate their Novalis technology and other Novalis radiosurgery program elements into the recently launched TrueBeam STx system. 2 August 2010

Prostate cancer seed cells discovered
New treatments for prostate cancer could result from the discovery that basal cells found in benign prostate tissue can turn into cancer cells. 30 July 2010

Common blood protein combined with nanoparticles kills cancer cells
A normally benign protein abundant in human blood appears to be able to zero in on and kill certain cancer cells when paired with nanoparticles, without having to also load the particles with chemotherapy drugs. 30 July 2010

Larch tree extract used to deliver drugs inside cancer cells
A cancer drug to a polymer from the larch tree, researchers at the Technion-Israel Institute of Technology have developed a 'Trojan Horse' molecule that releases cancer-fighting drugs inside cancer cells, protecting healthy tissue. 30 July 2010

Videogame processors reduce radiation in image guided radiation therapy
A new approach to processing X-ray data could lower by a factor of ten or more the amount of radiation patients receive during cone beam CT scans, report researchers from the University of California, San Diego. 26 July 2010

MRI tracking of tumour ablation by carbon nanotubes
A new way of monitoring carbon nanotubes as they destroy tumour cells by laser induced heating has been developed by researchers from Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center. 26 July 2010

Global network of proton therapy centres for cancer treatment
Proton Therapy USA and CareCapital are to form a new company, Proton Therapy Global Management, to develop a global network of proton therapy centres to provide access to this specialized and highly effective cancer treatment. 12 July 2010

Genetic mutation in KRAS gene can trigger melanoma
A genetic mutation found in some malignant melanomas can initiate development of this most deadly form of skin cancer, according to a study published in the journal Cancer Research. 23 June 2010

IntrinsiQ launches IntelliScribe eprescribing system for medical oncology
IntrinsiQ, provider of IntelliDose, the leading chemotherapy management software, has launched IntelliScribe, the first integrated eprescribing system for medical oncology. 18 June 2010

Life Technologies partners with German Cancer Research Centre to create genome sequencing centre
Life Technologies Corporation and the Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum are collaborating to create the National High-Throughput Sequencing Center, the first national sequencing center in Europe dedicated to systems biology. 18 June 2010

CEA-Leti launches study on photodynamic therapy for cancer treatment
CEA-Leti has launched the TARGET-PDT project designed to increase the effectiveness of photodynamic therapy (PDT) for treating cancer by developing a novel nano carrier-based approach.
14 June 2010

Blood test for detecting cancers five years before visible in diagnostic imaging
A ground-breaking diagnostic test that can identify biomarkers in blood for a range of cancers as much as five years earlier than current diagnostic imaging methods will be launched this month. 2 June 2010

Elekta acquires ultrasound-guided radiation therapy technology from Resonant Medical Inc
Elekta has acquired Canadian company Resonant Medical Inc. (RMI), specialists in image-guided radiation therapy for cancer treatment. 2 June 2010

Five new genes found that increase risk of breast cancer
The genes increase the risk of cancer by between six and 16 per cent and take the total number of common ‘low risk’ genetic sites associated with breast cancer to 18. 10 May 2010

Magnetic fluorescent nanoparticles highlight brain tumours for MRI and surgery
Scientists at Ohio State University have combined two types of nanoparticle to create a 'nanocomposite' that is both magnetic and fluorescent. The aim is to highlight tumours in diagnostic imaging and visually during surgery. 7 May 2010

Brainlab announces UK symposia on Novalis Tx radiosurgery platform
Image-guided technology developer Brainlab is inviting key UK clinicians and healthcare professionals to a series of free clinical symposia on 27 April in Bristol, 28 April in Sheffield and 29 April in London. 23 April 2010

Zurich hospital first to give radiotherapy with new Varian TrueBeam
The University Hospital of Zürich has become the first in the world to treat cancer patients with the revolutionary TrueBeam system that can treat a moving target with unprecedented speed and precision. 22 April 2010

Combined colon and kidney surgery using single-incision laparoscopy
Surgeons at the University of California, San Diego School of Medicine have carried out a single-incision laparoscopy to perform a combined colectomy and kidney-preserving therapy. 21 April 2010

HD 3D view in robotic surgery for prostate cancer compensates for lack of touch
Robotic surgical technology with its three-dimensional, high-definition view gives surgeons the sensation of touch, even as they operate from a remote console. Outcomes compare favourably with traditional invasive surgery. 21 April 2010

Better biomarkers needed for liver cancer detection
Widely used biomarkers are not optimal in early detection of liver cancer, the third most common cause of cancer-related death worldwide, according to a study published in Gastroenterology. 21 April 2010

Drug screening strategy finds two prototype cancer drugs
A comprehensive drug development strategy that starts with extensive screening of potential targeting agents and then narrows down to a small-molecule prototype has yielded two potential drugs that block cancer-promoting pathways in novel ways. 21 April 2010

Residual brain tumour cells need different treatment from main tumour
Tumour cells left behind after surgery were found to be substantially different from the cells in the midst of the tumour mass and could explain why radiation or chemotherapy cannot entirely prevent this deadly disease to reoccur. 15 April 2010

Wide variations in treatment for breast cancer in Europe, USA and Japan
A global study of nearly 10,000 women with early breast cancer has found wide variations in how they were treated, despite international consensus on best practice, according to the May issue of the British Journal of Surgery. 15 April 2010

Domainex collaboration with ICR advances breast cancer drug research
Scientists have discovered drug-like compounds that inhibit an enzyme from the PARP superfamily, whose expression leads to the survival of breast cancer cells. These will be screened to find potential drug candidates for further development. 14 April 2010

Symposium on deuterium depletion: a new concept in anticancer drug development
The First International Symposium on Deuterium Depletion will be held on 13-14 May 2010 in Budapest, Hungary to give researchers and medical practitioners a unique opportunity to get acquainted with a novel tool for submolecular medicine. 2 April 2010

Genetic test for cancer could result in reduced side effects from treatment in children
A genetic analysis technique that can identify a less agressive form of a cancer could enable children to be given less intensive treatment than current practice to reduce their risk of damaging side-effects. 2 April 2010

The Ambulight PDT patchAmbicare launches light-emitting plaster for skin cancer treatment
Scottish company Ambicare Health has launched the Ambulight PDT, a light-emitting skin plaster for the treatment of non-melanoma skin cancer using 'photodynamic therapy' (PDT). 12 March 2010

Fluorescent nanoparticles highlight cancerous tissue on operating table
Cell-penetrating molecules carrying fluorescent and magnetic tags that stick to and light up tumors help surgeons see more of the tumour tissue on the operating table and make it visible to MRI scans. 9 Mar 2010

Proton beam imaging for cancer diagnostics moves a step closer
Using a proton beam scan to image a patient prior to treatment would give more accurate density maps and the proton beam would stop more precisely on the tumor. 9 Mar 2010

US HIFU to fund investigation of focal therapy for prostate cancer in UK
The study, which will evaluate quality of life outcomes and safety of focal therapy in the treatment of localized prostate cancer will involve four centers initially and may expand to as many as 10 centres in the UK. 9 Mar 2010

Mammography gives no added value in breast cancer screening
A multicentre study of breast cancer screening has concluded that mammography is unnecessary in women undergoing MRI and current guidelines should be revised to reflect this. 9 Mar 2010

Breakthrough in real time tracking of prostate motion during arc radiotherapy
US and Danish researchers have devised a method for ‘real-time’ tracking of the prostate motion that shows promise in paving the way for advanced clinical treatments. 9 Mar 2010

Lilly, Merck, and Pfizer co-operate to accelerate cancer research in Asia
The three companies have formed the Asian Cancer Research Group, to accelerate research and ultimately improve treatment for patients affected with the most commonly-diagnosed cancers in Asia. 23 Feb 2010

Similar outcomes from open and laparoscopic prostate surgery
Researchers at the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York compared outcomes in a population based cohort of almost 6000 men 66 years of age or older with clinically localized prostate cancer. 23 Feb 2010

Genetic abnormalities predict prostate cancer survival
The combination of three genetic abnormalities significantly impacts how long a prostate cancer patient is likely to survive with the disease, according to scientists at the Institute of Cancer Research (ICR). 22 Feb 2010

The Novalis Tx systemClatterbridge Cancer Centre selects Novalis Tx platform for robotic radiosurgery
The Clatterbridge Centre for Oncology in NW England has ordered a Novalis Tx radiosurgery platform from Varian Medical Systems and BrainLAB. 22 Feb 2010

Femtomedicine — the new frontier of biomedical sciences
Femto-neutrons or ‘femtons’ are fast neutrons of femtometer wavelength — a million times smaller than nano scale — that can be used for a completely new rapid method of cancer diagnostics. 15 February 2010

Expression of a cancer gene in an ancestral metazoan (blue)600 million year old cancer gene discovered
Biochemists and biologists at the University of Innsbruck, Austria, have retraced the function of an important human cancer gene 600 million years back in time by studying a freshwater protozoan that has changed little in that time. 15 February 2010

Munich cancer clinic doubles proton therapy capacity
The Rinecker Proton Therapy Center in Munich has doubled its capacity  to deliver proton therapy with a second treatment room equipped with pencil-beam scanning technology from Varian. 11 Feb 2010

Northampton Hospital revamps nuclear medicine department
Northampton General Hospital NHS Trust has revamped its Nuclear Medicine department with the installation of state-of-the-art imaging equipment from Siemens Healthcare. 11 Feb 2010

UK Cancer Network implements Varian electronic prescribing and patient record system
Chemotherapy software that enables patients to become more involved in managing their own care has been successfully rolled out across The Thames Valley Cancer Network. 9 Feb 2010

Antibody-coated nanoparticles in microfluidic chip improve cancer detection 100 fold
The Fraunhofer Institute for Silicate Research is developing a highly sensitive method for detecting cancer that can detect single molecules of compounds in the blood that accompany specific types of tumour. 5 Feb 2010

GE Hitachi wins contract to develop US supply of medical isotope molybdenum-99
GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy has been selected by the US Department of Energy’s National Nuclear Security Administration to help develop a US supply of a radioisotope used in more than 20 million diagnostic medical procedures in the United States each year. 28 Jan 2010

‘Junk DNA’ could help diagnose breast and bowel cancer
Scientists at The University of Nottingham have found that a group of genetic rogue elements, produced by DNA sequences commonly known as ‘junk DNA’, could help diagnose breast and bowel cancer. 14 Jan 2010

Lung cancer and melanoma genomes decoded
Research teams led by the Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute have achieved the first comprehensive analyses of these two cancer genomes.. 16 Dec2009

Colon cancer screening programmes using the Viatronix V3D virtual colonoscopy platform
Viatronix has announced that several successful screening programs using the company's virtual colonoscopy technology were highlighted at the 10th International Symposium on Virtual Colonoscopy. 3 December 2009

Michelson Diagnostics presents advantages of OCT laser imaging for cancer diagnostics at RSM innovation summit
UK medical imaging firm Michelson Diagnostics Ltd (MDL) presented to an audience of around 300 Royal Society of Medicine Fellows and Members how MDL’s revolutionary new laser-based medical imaging technology could radically improve cancer diagnostics. 2 December 2009

Part of an elastogram of a skin cancerHigh frequency ultrasound and skin elasticity can identify skin cancer
High-frequency ultrasound with elastography can help differentiate between cancerous and benign skin conditions, according to a study presented at the annual meeting of the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA). 2 December 2009

Paxman Coolers launch scalp coolers for reducing hair loss during chemotherapy
Huddersfield-based Paxman Coolers are launching their next-generation NPAX1 scalp cooler at Medica in Dusseldorf this week.
Scalp coolers provide cancer patients with the best possible chance of retaining their hair whilst undergoing chemotherapy treatment. 16 Nov 2009

Manhattan Scientifics and Senior Scientifics collaborate to develop cancer cell detection system
Manhattan Scientifics and Senior Scientific, LLC are co-operating to commercialize Senior Scientific’s magnetic needle leukemia cancer cell detection invention based on the use of nanoparticles. 12 November 2009

Zilico to exhibit pioneering device for rapid detection of cervical cancer at Medica
A pioneering device that offers a quicker, more accurate detection of cervical cancer in real time, removing several weeks of waiting for a diagnosis, is being exhibited by British company Zilico Ltd for the first time at Medica 2009. 3 Nov 2009

Northern Centre for Cancer Care upgrades radiotherapy services
The Northern Centre for Cancer Care in Newcastle, UK, is upgrading its five Siemens Oncor linear accelerators to 160 multileaf collimator (MLC) capabilities to improve conformal shaping of radiotherapy treatment beams and IMRT. 27 Oct 2009

First Latvian patients treated with Varian's RapidArc radiotherapy system
Doctors in Latvia have begun treatments using the region’s first Novalis Tx radiosurgery platform from Varian Medical Systems and BrainLAB. 21 Oct 2009

Breakthrough in lab-on-chip for fast breast cancer detection
The EU-funded MASCOT project has developed a set of modular components for construction of a lab-on-chip system for detection of tumour cells in blood samples. The modules are now ready for integration into a single lab-on-chip and clinical evaluation. 14 Oct 2009

GE Healthcare launches global initiative on 10th anniversary of digital mammography
To commemorate the tenth anniversary of digital mammography and its long standing commitment to fighting breast cancer, GE Healthcare has created a digital wall of personal stories from those whose lives have been touched by breast cancer, as well as doctors, scientists and fundraisers who work tirelessly against the disease. 12 October 2009. Deutsch Español Francais

Breast cancer detector with a unique touch
Researchers at Drexel University in the US are developing a new portable, low-cost, breast cancer detector based on piezoelectric fingers that measure stiffness and mobility of breast tissue. 5 October 2009

Cancer awareness scheme launched at English football clubs
A new scheme launched today at five English football clubs will help educate men about the symptoms and risks of ‘male’ cancers — prostate, lung and bowel cancer — and encourage them to go to their doctor earlier when they show the symptoms. 26 September 2009

First evidence of virus in prostate cancer cells
A type of virus known to cause leukemia and sarcomas in animals has been found for the first time in malignant human prostate cancer cells. If it is proven to cause the cancer it would open opportunities for developing diagnostic tests, vaccines, and therapies for treatment. 11 September 2009

New adaptive cancer therapy system from Siemens
The IM-RealART Solution enables treatment plans for radiotherapy to be adapted especially fast to changes in the shape and position of tumours. The treatment plan cn be revised even while the patient is still lying on the treatment table. 28 August 2009 Deutsch

Siemens and Impac expand co-operation in oncology information systems
The partnership will give Siemens customers access to Impac’s oncology information system (OIS) will develop interfaces for their software to interoperate. 20 August 2009 Deutsch

Bacterial evolution shows how to fine-tune novel anti-cancer drug
Biochemists at the Technische Universitaet Muenchen and Nereus Pharmaceuticals have illuminated a reaction pathway that shows how the uncontrolled growth of cancer cells can be thwarted by blocking the action of proteasomes. 20 August 2009

Turkish Hospital Group orders four RapidArc radiotherapy systems
Acibadem Healthcare Group has acquired four additional radiotherapy treatment machines from Varian Medical Systems and expanded its radiotherapy facilities with new centres in Adana and Kayseri. 17 August 2009

Leica Microsystems and A Menarini Diagnostics extend distribution agreement
Leica Microsystems GmbH and A Menarini Diagnostics Srl have signed a five-year agreement to extend their successful co-operation in distributing Leica products in Europe. 7 August 2009

New €1.2 million project to establish cancer communications network in Europe
An initiative to boost cancer prevention, treatment and care throughout Europe by improving communications within the cancer community was launched this week. The Eurocancercoms project is an initiative of the European Institute of Oncology and is led by ECCO. 22 July 2009

Pioneering cancer treatments developed at Dutch oncology centre with RapidArc radiotherapy
Doctors at the VU University Medical Center in Amsterdam have developed new ways to perform radiosurgery on benign acoustic tumours using fast and precise RapidArc radiotherapy technology from Varian Medical Systems. 17 July 2009

Crawling robotMiniature robot crawls through veins
The Technion - Israel Institute of Technology has unveiled a miniature crawling robot (ViRob) just 1 mm in diameter that has the potential to perform precise medical procedures inside the human body. 14 July 2009

Chemical nose could provide more accurate indication of cancer than biomarkers
Using a 'chemical nose' array of nanoparticles and polymers, researchers have developed a new, more effective way to differentiate between healthy and cancerous cells and also between metastatic and non-metastatic cancer cells. 8 July 2009

New discovery shows how cancer spreads
A Finnish-led research group has discovered a mechanism that lung cancer cells use when spreading around the body to form metastases. 6 July 2009

Focused ultrasound offers better treatment for prostate cancer
An experimental treatment that uses ultrasound waves to kill prostate cancer cells may be able to treat men without surgery, with fewer side effects and with only a short stay in hospital, according to a UK study published in the British Journal of Cancer. 2 July 2009

Radioactive resin microspheres delay progression of colorectal cancer liver metastases
The time to progression of disease in patients with colorectal cancer liver metastases who have exhausted all chemotherapy options can be more than doubled through the use of radioactive resin microspheres. 29 June 2009

Nucletron strengthens position in cancer radiation therapy market
Dutch radiation therapy systems company Nucletron BV has announced the creation of an exclusive partnership and plan to merge with sector peer Isodose Control BV. 29 June 2009

Mechanism for fine regulation of RNA synthesis discovered
German and US researchers have discovered a new piece in the puzzle of epigenetics — they have shown that the enzyme TFIIH kinase is involved in epigenetic regulation. 29 June 2009

Cancer screening fear is fuelled by lack of information
Fear plays a major role in whether women decide to go for cancer screening or not, but healthcare providers underestimate how much women need to know and wrongly assume that they will ask for information if they want it. 29 June 2009

Varian introduces fast and precise brachytherapy planning system
Varian Medical System's BrachyVision Acuros enables clinicians to rapidly calculate patient doses for brachytherapy treatments with an extremely high level of accuracy. 10 June 2009

Lantheus Medical Imaging mitigates impact of global Molybdenum-99 supply crisis
Lantheus Medical Imaging, Inc. has signed an agreement with NTP Radioisotopes (Pty) Ltd., a subsidiary of the South African Nuclear Energy Corporation (NECSA), to manufacture and supply Lantheus with an ongoing volume of molybdenum-99 (Mo-99), a key isotope used in medical imaging procedures. 5 June 2009

Breakthrough in radiotherapy promises targeted cancer treatment
A research group from the University Medical Centre Utrecht in the Netherlands has successfully proven that simultaneous radiation treatment and diagnostic-quality MRI is feasible. 3 June 2009

Chemical compound that may stop brain tumours identified
Researchers at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Medicine have identified a compound that could be modified to treat one of the most deadly types of cancer, and discovered how a particular gene mutation contributes to tumour growth. 8 May 2009

Modified antibiotics could treat genetic diseases
By modifying the properties of the common antibiotic gentamicin, researchers at the Technion-Israel Institute of Technology have developed what could become an effective treatment for many human genetic diseases, including cystic fibrosis, Duchenne muscular dystrophy, Usher Syndrome and numerous cancers. 7 May 2009

Common human virus kills cancer stem cells
Reovirus, a common virus in humans that does not cause disease, has been found to effectively target and kill cancer stem cells in breast cancer tissue. The finding could lead to new ways of treating cancer. 7 May 2009

Leicester University wins £320,000 grant to study magnetic nanoparticles for treatment of prostate cancer
The award will allow a multidisciplinary research team to design high-performance magnetic nanoparticles that target unique cell surface receptors present on the prostate tumour cell surface. 24 April 2009

Nanobiotix reports ‘proof of concept’ for nanoparticles in treating brain cancer
Nanobiotix has announced that an independent preclinical study has validated the applicability of using its nanoparticles — nanoPDT — to treat glioblastoma multiforme, one of the most prevalent brain tumours. 23 April 2009

Breakthrough in preclinical model for human cancer may lead to new drug development
Aveo Pharmaceuticals has announced findings from its novel human-in-mouse (HIM) cancer model system, in which it successfully created invasive human tumours from primary human breast tissue that develop over time in mice and mimic human tumour behaviours and response. 23 April 2009

Domainex in collaboration to develop novel breast cancer drug targets
Domainex has announced a collaboration on drug-discovery programmes with the Breakthrough Breast Cancer Research Centre and The UK Institute of Cancer Research to identify and develop inhibitors of two recently validated breast cancer targets, tankyrase and IKK-epsilon. 23 March

German healthcare group selects Varian linear accelerators for radiotherapy
The HELIOS Kliniken Group is acquiring nine linear accelerators from Varian Medical Systems (NYSE: VAR), the majority of them equipped with RapidArc technology. The new machines will replace older models and add capacity that will give more patients access to the most advanced cancer care. 23 March 2009

Proof-of-concept for breast cancer diagnostics shown for ExonHit's RNA splicing platform
Paris-based ExonHit Therapeutics has reported the publication in Lancet Oncology of a study conducted by Institut Gustave Roussy, which describes the identification of a deregulated cell function in breast cancer through the analysis of alternative RNA splicing. 23 March 2009

Minimally-invasive surgery needs more data on outcomes
Minimally-invasive oncologic surgery procedures can be beneficial, but physicians need to be prudent when recommending the option to their patient. There is little data from randomized controlled clinical trials to provide any insight into outcomes or survival rates. 23 March 2009

Virtual colonoscopies show value for some patients, but polyps will be missed
Research findings from meta-analyses performed by the US ECRI Institute suggest that CT colonography appears most promising for screening asymptomatic, average-risk patients; however, it will miss some important polyps and cancer that would have been detected by colonoscopy. 23 March 2009

Kinaxo contributes quantitative phosphoproteomics platform to find a drug to treat pancreatic cancer
German company Kinaxo Biotechnologies GmbH has been awarded a grant to expand applications for its quantitative phosphoproteomics platform to contribute to a drug efficacy study to find a treatment for pancreatic cancer. 27 February 2009

Innovative therapies needed to deal with rapid spread of cancer in Europe
Cancer may well surpass cardiovascular diseases as the primary case of death in Europe by 2012. To prevent this from happening, cancer therapeutics will have to shift in focus from the treatment of symptoms to offering a total cure, according to a new report from Frost & Sullivan. 27 February 2009

GE installs first series of breakthrough molecular imaging scanners
GE Healthcare has announced the installation of the new Discovery PET/CT 600-series scanners in hospitals in France, the USA and Australia. They provide earlier diagnosis, more accurate tumour location and better assessment of how a patient is responding to cancer treatment. 22 February 2009

Varian receives European approval for proton therapy system
Proton therapy allows doctors to use higher doses of radiation to control and manage tumours while significantly reducing damage to healthy tissue and vital organs. 22 February 2009

Gold nanospheres target and destroy cancer cells
Hollow gold nanospheres equipped with a targeting peptide find melanoma cells, penetrate them deeply, and then cook the tumour when bathed with near-infrared light, a research team led by scientists at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center has reported. 16 February 2009

Source of cancer stem cells' resistance to radiation discovered
Stanford University researchers have found that the protection takes the form of the increased expression of proteins that can bind and deactivate reactive oxygen species, highly unstable small molecules that wreak havoc on a cell’s DNA and proteins. 16 February 2009

Cambridge University research group employs Fluidigm’s EP1 genotyping system for cancer studies. 16 February 2009

New indicator of prostate cancer discovered
Researchers from the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center have discovered that the presence of the chemical sarcosine appears to indicate aggressive prostate cancer. 11 February 2009

Revolutionary treatment offers new hope to Russian cancer patients
Two of Russia’s leading research centres have purchased Elekta Axesse systems which will allow clinicians to treat cancer tumours throughout the body with ultra-high precision. 11 February 2009

B&W and Covidien to develop US source of key medical isotope
Babcock & Wilcox Technical Services Group, Inc. has signed an agreement with Covidien to develop technology for the manufacture of molybdenum-99, the parent isotope of technetium-99m, the most widely used radioisotope for molecular imaging and nuclear medicine procedures. 9 February 2009

Tomotherapy radiation treatment planning software gains FDA clearance
Swedish company RaySearch Laboratories AB and TomoTherapy Inc have announced that their jointly produced new software solution for the Tomotherapy Hi-Art linear accelerator has received clearance by the FDA for market launch in the US. 9 February 2009

Cancer patients in Sweden and Estonia receive advanced radiation therapy treatments
Uppsala University Hospital and Lund University Hospital in Sweden and Tartu University Hospital in Estonia have invested in advanced radiotherapy systems from Elekta. 9 February 2009

First cancer centre in Germany to use Varian RapidArc treatment
Three prostate cancer patients have become the first people in Germany to be treated using Varian's new, faster form of radiotherapy that potentially enables doctors to improve outcomes while extending more advanced care to more patients. 31 January 2009

Milan Cancer Centre treats first patient in Italy with RapidArc radiotherapy
A pancreatic cancer patient has become the first person in Italy to be treated using a new, faster form of radiotherapy from Varian Medical Systems. 15 January 2009

Clarient launches gene expression test for prostate cancer
Clarient, Inc. has announced the commercial launch of its new gene expression test for prostate cancer. This new test will be available through Clarient’s virtual reporting tool and accessible to the company’s entire pathology network. 15 January 2009

Roche licenses Fujirebio's ovarian cancer test
Fujirebio Diagnostics, Inc. has granted Roche Diagnostics a worldwide license and supply agreement for its HE4 ovarian cancer test. Roche will develop an assay kit using the test on its automated immunoassay analyzers. 9 January 2009

Belfast and Dublin join in £1.5m cancer research project
New treatment options for cancers with low survival rates are to be developed as the result of a new £1.5 million project between Queen’s University Belfast and Trinity College Dublin. 8 January 2009

Covidien’s microwave ablation system for liver tumours gains FDA clearance
Covidien's Evident microwave ablation system is intended for use in the ablation of nonresectable liver tumours. It offers a procedural option for patients who are not candidates for surgical resection and have few remaining treatment options. 8 January 2009

First UK prostate patient treated with RapidArc radiotherapy
A 65-year-old grandfather of six has become the first cancer patient in the UK to be treated using RapidArc radiotherapy technology from Varian Medical Systems. 17 December 2008

New molecular imaging technique targets hard to detect breast cancers
Breast-specific gamma imaging (BSGI), an emerging molecular imaging technology, is effective in the detection of cancers not found on mammograms or by clinical exam. 10 December 2008

Staffordshire hospital modernises radiotherapy department with Varian RapidArc linear accelerator
Cancer patients will receive faster, more advanced cancer treatments as part of a major project to modernize the University Hospital radiotherapy department serving North Staffordshire in central England. 26 November 2008

Marillion Pharmaceuticals licenses Bracco Imaging's novel targeted prostate and breast cancer treatments
Bracco’s treatment for hormone-resistant prostate and advanced (metastatic) breast cancers has unique targeting capability that enables it to home in on tumour cells and spare normal tissues.  24 November 2008

ArQule and Daiichi-Sankyo in strategic partnership to develop novel anti-cancer compounds. 24 November 2008

Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry uses MathWorks parallel computing tools for cancer research
The Institute studies the relationship between the structure and activity of macromolecular protein complexes, which requires processing of vast amounts of data. 24 November 2008

Optimized radiation for prostate cancer therapy
In a cooperative study with Innsbruck Medical University and the East-Vienna Center of Social Medicine, two physicists of Vienna University of Technology (TU), evaluated the mean deviation of radiation parameters for prostate cancers and compared various sources of radiation. 23 October 2008 Deutsch

New study examines effectiveness of colorectal cancer screening tests
New findings from a Decision Analysis for the US Preventative Services Task Force (USPSTF) suggest that routine colorectal cancer screenings can be stopped in patients over the age of 75. The results are based on patients who began screenings at age 50 and have had consistently negative screenings up to the age of 75. 16 October 2008

Optics meets medicine at US Optical Society meeting
A few of the many technical highlights to be discussed at the meeting: a new look at mini-strokes; a potential new tool for brain surgeons; new technique for mapping blood supply in retina increases safety and comfort of exams; the optics of Alzheimer's disease; potential non-invasive optical detection of pancreatic cancer; the neuron microscope, treating bone cancer and futuristic lighting at FiO. 16 October 2008

Website to help prostate cancer specialists make better treatment choices
A free online computer tool, the CaP Calculator, provides cancer specialists access to the latest prostate cancer research and helps them better individualise each patient’s treatment options. 6 October 2008

New imaging technique for rare thyroid cancer
A new imaging approach for identifying a rare form of thyroid cancer that is typically hard to diagnose has been developed by researchers at the University of Iowa. 6 October 2008

bioMérieux to develop non-invasive test for prostate cancer
French in vitro diagnostics company bioMérieux has signed a license and development agreement with German biotechnology company ProteoSys for its novel prostate cancer marker Annexin 3, which will be used to develop a urine-based, confirmatory diagnostic test for prostate cancer. 2 October 2008 Francais

GE Healthcare gains FDA approval for diagnostic imaging agent for detecting neuroendocrine tumours
GE Healthcare's AdreView is a molecular imaging agent that provides high quality images that allow physicians to detect tumours, both at the time of initial diagnosis and at later examinations when relapse or recurrence is suspected. 28 September 2008

RapidArc image-guided radiotherapy treating tumours of the head and neck
Cancer treatment centres in the United States and the Netherlands are now treating head and neck cancer using RapidArc radiotherapy technology from Varian Medical Systems. 23 September 2008

New technology for manufacturing radioisotopes for cancer diagnostic imaging
Newly-developed technology at the Delft University of Technology in the Netherlands could prevent global shortages of radio isotopes for cancer diagnosis. 18 September 2008

Cryopreservation can restore fertility for women cancer victims Advances in cryopreservation are increasing hope of restoring fertility for women after diseases such as ovarian cancer that lead to destruction of reproductive tissue. 18 September 2008

RapidArc radiotherapy technology now treating tumours of the head and neck
Doctors at cancer treatment centres in the United States and the Netherlands are now treating head and neck cancer using RapidArc radiotherapy technology from Varian Medical Systems. 17 September 2008

US National Cancer Institute signs up to Thomson Reuters' BIOMARKERcenter.
The National Cancer Institute's Developmental Therapeutics program and the associated Biomarker Program will integrate BIOMARKERcenter into its programme to investigate novel chemical and biological agents for their potential to improve cancer therapeutics. 12 September 2008 Francais Español

Report: Top 20 cancer therapy brands
Cancer therapy brand sales totaled over $30 billion in the seven major markets in 2007, growing by 20.1% since 2006. The high growth of this market makes it attractive to companies keen to emulate the blockbuster status achieved by several brands. However, with several impending patent expiries due, companies will need to work hard to maximize their return throughout the lifecycle of their brands. 9 September 2008

Diagnostic imaging tests across Europe disrupted by isotope shortage
The closure of three European nuclear reactors producing medical isotopes is causing a worldwide shortage of the isotopes and limiting European hospitals to between 20% and 40% of their usual nuclear medicine activities, the European Association of Nuclear Medicine has warned. 8 September 2008

DNA technology shows high sensitivity for colorectal cancer from stool sample
EXACT Sciences Corporation (NASDAQ: EXAS) has announced the results of a study that showed that improved 'BEAMing DNA' detection technology demonstrated 92% sensitivity for detecting colotectal cancer from stool samples. 27 August 2008

iCAD records revenue growth of 73%
Computer-aided cancer detection systems supplier iCAD, Inc. has announced announced record revenue of $10.5 million for the second, quarter of 2008 up 73% over last year. 1 August 2008

Three Novalis Tx radiosurgery platforms ordered by Danish cancer hospital
Varian Medical Systems and BrainLAB AG have announced that one of Scandinavia’s leading cancer centres has ordered three Novalis Tx radiosurgery platforms which combine the most advanced technologies from both companies to offer superior non-invasive radiosurgery for patients. 30 July 2008

Varian ranked first in oncology IT vendors
Varian Medical Systems was ranked the leading supplier in its class in an independent study released by KLAS, a research firm that specialises in monitoring and reporting on the performance of healthcare vendors. 16 July 2008

Colonoscopies to check for bowel cancer under used in Germany
Under 2% of persons aged over 55 in Germany use colonoscopies for early detection of cancer, even though the statutory health insurance funds have covered the costs since 2002. 5 July 2008

Carbon nanotubes attached to antibodies kill cancer cells under infrared light
Carbon nanotubes attached to monoclonal antibodies that target specific sites on lymphoma cells can kill the cells by heating up when exposed to near-infrared light. 25 June 2008

Is low radiation good for health?
An article published in the International Journal of Low Radiation claims that short-term low doses of radiation are good for health through boosting the immune system and increasing antibody production. The author also claims that humans can be deficient in radiation. 19 June 2008

Image-guided radiotherapy unveiled at Dijon cancer hospital
The Georges-François Leclerc Cancer Center in Dijon, France has installed a Varian Medical Systems Trilogy linear accelerator, which will enable it to provide image-guided stereotactic treatments. 19 June 2008

Wavelets speed up diagnosis of brain tumours
Researchers at the University of Warwick have devised an automated technique that can give a preliminary analysis of a precise brain tumour type within seconds. 17 June 2008

Lung cancer in Europe not prioritised despite poor survival rates
The fragmented organisation and management of lung cancer diagnosis and care in many European countries are exacerbating already poor survival rates amongst patients with the disease, according to a report from a group of leading Swedish researchers. 6 June 2008

Identification of prostate cancer genes opens door to new treatments
For the first time researchers have identified the genetic profile of prostate cancer stem cells. The study by the YCR Cancer Research Unit at the University of York, England, and Pro-cure Therapeutics Ltd, could lead to new ways for treating the cancer. 22 May 2008

Danish and Dutch hospitals first in Europe to use Varian's RapidArc radiotherapy
Cancer patients at Copenhagen’s Rigshospitalet and Amsterdam’s VU University medical centre have benefited from Varian's advanced form of intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT). 18 May 2008

Record demand for Varian's RapidArc radiotherapy treatment
Varian Medical Systems (NYSE: VAR) has announced it has received more than 60 orders for its new RapidArc radiotherapy product for faster image-guided intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT). 29 April 2008

CyberKnife delivers high dose brachytherapy for prostate cancer non-invasively
The CyberKnife robotic radiosurgery system can serve as a non-invasive means for delivering high dose rate (HDR) brachytherapy dosing, according to a new study. The study supports the system's clinical flexibility in treating prostate cancer and expands the non-invasive options available to clinicians and patients. 18 April 2008

MRI can non-invasively characterise brain tumours
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technology has the potential to non-invasively characterise tumours and determine which of them may be responsive to specific forms of treatment, based on their specific molecular properties. 24 March 2008

Axellis announces 'global expansion' with three acquisitions
Axellis Ltd, a UK and US based medical technology company, has announced three acquisitions, which it says are part of a strategy to become a leading, global provider of specialist hardware and software solutions to optimise treatments in oncology and cardiology. 19 March 2008

New breast cancer test uses magnetic nanoparticles to detect cancer cells
A team from University College London has developed a new medical device called the ‘HistoMag’ that will make the early detection of breast cancer more accurate, cost effective and easier to administer. 10 March 2008

DNA test for assessing risk of prostate cancer
deCODE genetics has launched a test that can identify genetic markers associated with increased risk of prostate cancer. The company believes the test will better predict the risk of prostate cancer and help to optimize both screening and treatment. 20 February 2008

Royal Marsden Hospital completes world's first VMAT radiotherapy treatment
The Royal Marsden Hospital in Sutton, UK, successfully completed the first volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) radiation treatment for cancer in the world using a commercial product. 18 February 2008

US representatives call for more funding for prostate cancer research
Prostate cancer has become more common than breast cancer, yet advanced diagnostic imaging technologies comparable to mammograms remain unavailable. Over 20 US representatives have urged the US Department of Health and Human Services and National Institutes of Health to urgently fund research into the disease. 18 February 2008

Elekta signs brachytherapy sales sharing agreement with Xoft
Elekta will share identified sales opportunities for Xoft's Axxent electonic brachytherapy system in the radiation oncology market. The companies will also explore other areas of collaboration. 8 February 2008

US oncology group aims to revolutionise cancer care with free online service
A website set up by Georgia Cancer Specialists (GCS) in the US aims to change the way oncology professionals prescribe chemotherapy to cancer patients. 30 January 2008

An invitation to Europe’s largest forum on breast cancer
The 6th European Breast Cancer Conference (EBCC-6) will be held in Berlin 15-19 April 2008

UK strategy to improve cancer services
The UK government has published a five-year cancer strategy focussing on prevention and improving services. The report identifies the need to tackle the serious shortage of radiotherapy capacity and radiographers, delays in uptake of new cancer drugs and the need to encourage the spread of improved surgical techniques. 15 January 2007

First annual pan-Asian computerised tomographic colonography congress
Leading radiology experts from China, Korea, Japan and the UK have draw up plans this week for the first ever pan-Asia computerised tomographic colonography (CTC) Congress. 13 December

Varian image-guided radiotherapy selected for Portsmouth hospital
The new Queen Alexandra Hospital in Portsmouth, UK, will receive four high-energy Clinac iX linear accelerators supplied by Varian Medical Systems. They will be equipped with on-board imager devices for advanced image-guided radiation therapy (IGRT) treatments. 12 December

The miniature radiation monitorMiniaturised, low-cost device to monitor radiation exposure during radiotherapy
A team from the University of Granada (UGR) and the Hospital Virgen de las Nieves has developed a portable and low-cost device which can measure the ionizing radiation a patient is exposed to during, for example, radiotherapy. 18 November 2007

Varian improves brachytherapy treatment
Varian Medical Systems has the iX range of advanced afterloaders that simplify high dose rate brachytherapy delivery and optimise treatment of cancer patients. 2 November

Ultrasound diagnostic tool could improve non-invasive treatment of prostate cancer
HistoScanning, a novel processing technology for ultrasonography could improve the treatment and monitoring of prostate cancer and help avoid unnecessary invasive procedures. 17 October 2007

Elekta launches compact linear accelerator
Elekta has unveiled the Elekta Compact, a linear accelerators with a single low-energy photon beam and a small footprint, designed for use in a small treatment room and in specialized markets. 26 September 2007

IMAGNA to develop therapeutic vaccine against cat fibrosarcoma
The IMAGNA consortium is to study the usefulness of therapeutic tumour vaccination by magnetofection technology in a clinical study in cats with fibrosarcoma. Preliminary results indicate significant reduction in tumour relapse rates. 24 September

Laser scan of veins detects cancer
Technology that can detect tumour cells by scanning surface veins with a laser, eliminating the need for drawing blood, has been developed by Purdue University researchers. 20 September 2007

OCT image of oesophagusSuccessful trial of optical imaging of tissue during cancer surgery
The tests, performed on cancerous and precancerous human oesophagus and lymph node tissue, were designed to establish the potential for MDL’s optical imaging technology to revolutionise cancer surgery. 13 September 2007

im3D's CAD-Colon diagnostic system deployed in hospitals across Italy
im3D Medical Imaging Lab, a research centre based in Torino, Italy has installed its diagnostic system in thirteen healthcare facilities. It is being used to support medical specialists in the early diagnosis and prevention of colorectal tumours. 12 September 2007

Novel cell culture technique shows tumours selectively uptake nanoparticles
A novel cell-culture technique devised by scientists at The University of Nottingham has shown that nanoparticles can deliver drugs selectively to brain tumour cells. 12 September 2007

MRI beats mammography in detecting early-stage breast cancer
A study by researchers at the University of Bonn has shown that magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is more accurate than mammography in diagnosing very early stages of breast cancer. 21 August 2007

Artist's concept of a compact proton therapy systemCompact proton accelerator could revolutionise radiotherapy
The prospect of more widely available proton radiation therapy has moved closer with the development of a compact device called a dielectric wall accelerator (DWA) that could fit in standard treatment rooms and allow modulation for more precise treatment. 3 August 2007.

First US hospital to use Gamma Knife Perfexion to treat brain tumours
The Washington Hospital Healthcare System will be the first hospital outside of Europe to treat brain tumour patients using the new incision-free Leksell Gamma Knife Perfexion from Swedish company Elekta. 15 June 2007

InSightec receives EU approval for treating bone cancer pain with focused ultrasound
The ExAblate 2000 system, produced by InSightec Ltd., has received the European CE Mark certification for pain palliation of bone metastases. 13 June 2007

GE to supply digital mammography units to Irish breast screening programme
GE Healthcare is supplying 13 full field digital mammography (FFDM) units to BreastCheck in Ireland, part of the Irish National Cancer Screening Service. 7 June 2007

Antwerp radiotherapy centre chooses TomoTherapy cancer treatment system
The new University Radiotherapy Centre of Antwerp has chosen the TomoTherapy Hi·Art treatment system for providing radiation therapy, and the Centre will serve as a European training facility for TomoTherapy. 7 June 2007

GE Healthcare and IntrinsiQ to integrate cancer treatment system with patient records
GE Healthcare and cancer care software supplier IntrinsiQ, LLC are to collaborate to integrate IntrinsiQ's cancer treatment information system with GE's Centricity electronic medical record (EMR) system. 7 June 2007

Invendo demonstrates sedationless colonoscopy
invendo medical GmbH demonstrated a live screening colonoscopy using its sedation-free colonoscope, the invendoscope, in Berlin in May. The device is aimed at the large number of people who avoid colonoscopy because of the discomfort of the examination. 6 June 2007

New device disrupts cancer cell growth with electric fields
A medical device that can specifically target rapidly growing cancer cells with intermediate frequency electrical fields more than doubled the survival rates in early trials of patients with a brain tumour, and with virtually no adverse effects. 5 June 2007

Varian radiotherapy systems for three Danish hospitals
Hospitals in Herlev, Copenhagen and Naestved will receive state-of-the-art radiotherapy equipment, software and networking systems from Varian Medical Systems. 22 May 2007

Trial of one-dose radiation therapy for breast cancer
Doctors at University College London Hospitals (UCL) are leading a trial of a technique to reduce radiotherapy treatment for breast cancer from several weeks to one 30-minute session during surgery. 20 May 2007

Call for mass screening in Europe to prevent 200,000 deaths from colon cancer
Leading European scientists, physicians and politicians have called for national action plans across Europe to screen for colon cancer and prevent the 200,000 unnecessary deaths each year. Virtually all colon and rectal cancers can be either prevented or cured, yet little effective action has been taken since screening was recommended in 2003. 19 May 2007 Español  Francais

Report on developing radiotherapy services in England
The report says there is still a need to increase services to meet current and future demand, there should be greater choice and there is a need for more community-based services. 17 May 2007

RaySearch Laboratories to develop radiotherapy software for Varian
RaySearch will develop advanced radiation therapy treatment planning software for integration into Varian’s Eclipse treatment planning system. 15 May 2007

Treating colorectal cancer with lymphocytes is alternative to chemotherapy
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet in Sweden have discovered a new method of treating advanced colorectal cancer without the need for chemotherapy. By removing special lymphocytes (white blood cells), cultivating them and returning them to the patient's body, scientists can strengthen the patient's immune defence and stop the spread of the tumour. 13 May 2007

CT screening for lung cancer does not increase survival
A US-Italian study of the use of computed tomography (CT) to screen current or former smokers for lung cancer has found that screening did not reduce deaths from lung cancer. Screening found more than three times as many lung cancers and ten times as many surgeries were performed, but there was no effect on survival rate. 29 March 2007

Memmingen cancer clinic first in Germany to offer image-guided radiotherapy
Klinikum Memmingen in Bavaria has begun treating cancer patients with a new, more precise form of radiotherapy using a linear accelerator and special on-board imager accessory from Varian Medical Systems. 26 March 2007

New partnerships to trial optical coherence tomography for cancer identification
Two UK hospitals have teamed up with Michelson Diagnostics Ltd to test the use of optical coherence tomography (OCT) for the rapid identification of cancers as an alternative to biopsies. 7 March 2007

Misonix expands distribution of ultrasound surgical devices in Europe. 21 February 2007

Image-guided radiosurgery system for new Dublin hospital
The newly opened Beacon Hospital in Sandyford, Dublin has ordered Europe’s first Trilogy Tx image-guided radiosurgery system from Varian Medical Systems. 7 Feb 2007

Swedish Cancer Institute first to offer organ-motion tracking for precision-treatment of prostate cancer
The Seattle-based Institute is the first to offer prostate cancer treatment with the Calypso 4D Localization System for precision-guided radiation therapy with organ-motion tracking, giving the ability to pinpoint a prostate tumour's location with greater accuracy and reduced side-effects. 5 Feb 2007

Gamma camera detects small breast tumours
The new technique, called molecular breast imaging, can complement mammography but will be much more comfortable for women as less pressure is needed for imaging. 19 Dec 2006

Aarhus hospital pioneers image-guided brachytherapy for gynaecological cancers. 6 Dec 2006

Elekta wins 30-year contract to equip new UK cancer centre. 1 Dec 2006

Nucletron and RaySearch cooperate to develop proton therapy planning software
The companies have signed a long-term development and license agreement that will result in a new proton treatment planning and optimization module that will be fully integrated in Nucletron's Oncentra MasterPlan software. 28 Nov 2006

Software to predict risk of breast cancer returning after treatment
Doctors have created a computer tool to predict the risk of breast cancer returning in the same breast in women who have had breast conserving surgery. 14 Nov 2006

Philips introduces new MR simulator and CT applications.  8 Nov 2006

Precisely targeted cancer treatment for East Netherlands
The Medische Spectrum Twente (MST)hospital in Enschede, east Netherlands has installed the country's first On-Board Imager (OBI) device for image-guided radiotherapy. The device can reduce treatment margins to within 2mm-3mm accuracy, allowing clinicians to focus a higher radiation dose on the tumour. 2 Nov 2006

Detecting skin cancer by sound waves
Researchers at the University of Missouri-Columbia have developed a technique to detect the spread of skin cancer cells through the blood by listening to their sound. The minimally invasive technique uses a laser to make the melanoma cells emit ultrasound noise. 30 October 2006

Misonix expands high intensity focused ultrasound business to Spain
30 October 2006

Combination of radiation therapies more effective treatment for prostate cancer
Studies have shown that a combination of different radiotherapeutic methods are able to increase the efficacy of radiation for prostate cancer at an early stage. Combined hormone and radiation therapy has also been shown to benefit prostate cancer patients if they have a high risk of disease progression. 27 Oct 2006

Computer-aided detection of mammograms improves breast cancer screening
In screening mammograms for breast cancer, the performance of radiologists using computer aided detection (CAD) was superior to double reading, according to a recently published UK study. 18 October 2006

Pioneering image-guided radiotherapy at university hospital of Leuven, Belgium
The hospital UZ Gasthuisberg has installed the new type of cancer treatment supplied by Varian Medical Systems. It enables patients to receive more precise radiotherapy using X-ray imaging during treatment to locate and focus beams more closely on tumours. 7 Oct 2006

Varian Medical Systems to equip Genk Cancer Clinic in Belgium
A new radiotherapy centre that will provide patients in the north-east of Belgium with greater access to advanced cancer treatments will be equipped with Varian Medical Systems’ integrated and automated treatment equipment and software. 19 Sept 2006

Mount Vernon Cancer Centre selects Ziehm mobile C-arm. 18 Sept 2006

Varian supports new UK radiography training centre.
Varian has donated ten Eclipse treatment planning systems to the new Saad Centre for Radiography Clinical Skills Education at London’s City University. 15 Sept 2006

Cancer Patients in Western Australia to benefit from Varian's state-of-the-art radiotherapy treatment. 28 August 2006

Heidelberg clinic first in Germany to offer TomoTherapy radiotherapy treatment. 22 August 2006

Philips' new tumour mapping software paves way for adaptive radiation therapy
Royal Philips Electronics has released new software that reduces the time it takes to contour tumours and anatomical structures. This is a crucial aid in adapting image-guided radiation therapy to patients' treatment plans based on their response to daily treatment. 17 August 2006

Cromwell Hospital first in UK to order Elekta's new stereotactic radiosurgery system. 9 August 2006

Malaysian cancer centre offers high-precision radiotherapy with Varian's Trilogy accelerator
The NCI Cancer Hospital in Nilai can now offer the latest in high-precision radiotherapy techniques, including intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT), image-guided radiotherapy (IGRT) and stereotactic radiosurgery. 26 July 2006

Imaging technology identifies compounds that can fight tumours
Using a newly developed drug screen and combining molecular imaging techniques with human cancer cell culture, researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine have discovered small-molecule compounds that can perform the functions of a tumour-killing gene commonly mutated in many types of cancer. 21 July 2006

First patient treated with Elekta's new non-invasive radiotherapy system for brain tumours
The Leksell Gamma Knife Perfexion from Swedish company Elekta has for the first time been used clinically to treat patients at Hôpital de la Timone (University Hospital La Timone) in Marseille, France. 17 July 2006

Varian oncology software benchmarked by UK Health Service
Varian Medical Systems’ medical oncology software for integrated chemotherapy e-prescribing and pharmacy dispensing has performed strongly in a benchmark test against a national specification by the UK’s National Health Service. 10 July 2006

Bristol Hospital offers Sonablate prostate cancer treatment on fee-per-use basis
Southmead Hospital, part of North Bristol NHS Trust in England, will offer high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) treatment of prostate cancer using the Sonablate 500 on a fee-per-use basis, joining 40 sites in the UK that can make the treatment more widely available. 5 July 2006

Ipswich Hospital pilots image-guided radiotherapy to improve breast cancer treatment
The study will examine the feasibility of using image guided radiotherapy for post-lumpectomy breast cancer patients. IGRT improves imaging of the cancer site at the time of treatment and can track and adjust for tumour motion caused by the patient. 23 June 2006

Italian National Cancer Institute chooses Ablatherm-HIFU to treat prostate cancer
The Italian National Cancer Institute, Centro Referimento Oncologico (CRO), in cooperation with Pordenone Hospital in Aviano has chosen the Ablatherm-HIFU technology from EDAP TMS S.A. for the treatment of prostate cancer. 23 May 2006

Accuray reports growing acceptance of CyberKnife robotic radiosurgery system
Accuray Incorporated has announced that spinal tumour treatments with its radiosurgery system grew more than 75% over the last year. The company has also announced the first installations of CyberKnife in Greece and Vietnam. 9 May 2006

Ten years of high intensity focused ultrasound treatment for prostate cancer
EDAP presented 10-year Ablatherm - HIFU European experiences and a review of results of treatments dating back to 1995 at a special dedicated symposium during the European Association of Urology conference in Paris, 5-8 April. 23 April 2006

Purdue University engineer Babak Ziaie shows the prototype wireless device he has developed with doctoral student Chulwoo SonImplantable wireless device for measuring radiation dose in tumours
Engineers at Purdue University are creating a wireless device the size of a rice grain that could be implanted in tumours to tell doctors the precise dose of radiation received and locate the exact position of tumours during treatment. 19 April 2006

Four TomoTherapy Systems for German universities
The German Research Association (DFG) plans to install four TomoTherapy Hi-Art Systems in major universities in Germany later this year. 31 January 2006

Varian to equip new Oxford cancer centre in 31-year PFI contract
Varian Medical Systems has been selected to equip the new unit at Oxford Churchill Hospital in one of Europe's largest PFI (private finance initiative) projects. 31 January 2006

RISO receives first twinned TomoTherapy systems in Netherlands
The Radiotherapeutisch Instituut Stedendriehoek en Omstreken, in Deventer, Netherlands will receive two twinned TomoTherapy Hi·Art Systems systems to provide advanced radiation therapy treatment. 28 January 2006

Robotic prostatectomy protects sexual function
A year-long study by Henry Ford Hospital found patients who underwent a robotic radical prostatectomy had significantly better erectile function outcomes than those who received conventional nerve-sparing surgery without compromising cancer control. 11 January 2006

GE Healthcare to distribute optical imaging agent for bladder cancer
PhotoCure ASA of Norway has granted GE Healthcare rights to market and distribute PhotoCure’s product Hexvix (hexaminolevulinate), an optical molecular imaging agent intended for the diagnosis and monitoring of bladder cancer. 10 January 2006

Liver tumours treated effectively by MR-guided laser ablation
Destruction of cancerous liver tissue by laser light guided by magnetic resonance (MR) imaging was found to be as effective as traditional surgery in a Germany study. 20 December 2005

Tactile sensing device for documenting clinical breast exams
Medical Tactile, Inc. (MTI) has announced the start of commercial sales of its first product, the SureTouch Visual Mapping System. 19 December 2005

Chinese breast cancer program selects iCAD computer-aided detection system. 12 December 2005

England's cancer research network chooses data-management system for clinical trials
The National Cancer Research Network (NCRN) has selected Medidata Solutions' Rave software to manage data for initially eight and up to 250 clinical trials. 12 December 2005

More sensitive imaging system for detecting breast cancer
Trials conducted at Duke University with several mastectomy and patient cases suggest that the new tomosynthesis system is able to detect subtle mass lesions otherwise difficult to pick up with standard mammography. 12 December 2005

Suros Breast Biopsy system gains EC approval
Suros Surgical Systems has received European approval for its ATEC breast biopsy and excision system and ATEC TriMark biopsy site identification system. 9 December 2005

Siemens Medical Solutions to distribute Nucletron oncology system worldwide
Dutch company Nucletron BV and Siemens Medical Solutions have announced a worldwide distribution agreement for Nucletron's  Oncentra MasterPlan. 30 November 2005

Next-generation surgical robot for therapeutic radiology unveiled
Accuray has launched the latest generation of its intelligent robotic radiosurgery system, CyberKnife. It combines  image-guidance technology and computer-controlled robotics to deliver sub-millimetre radiosurgery. 13 November 2005

Oncology information system for paperless and filmless cancer clinics
The ARIA Oncology Information Management System, is a new real-time management system and database product from Varian Medical Systems for operating filmless and paperless cancer clinics that offer radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and/or surgery. 5 November 2005

Radiofrequency ablation of breast cancer cells reduces need for further surgery
A clinical trial conducted at the University of Arkansas Cancer Research Center has found that radiofrequency ablation (RFA)-assisted lumpectomy reduced the need for re-excision for inadequate margins following lumpectomy by 86%. 30 October 2005

Breast cancer diagnosis improved by combining near-infrared imaging with ultrasound
Combining optical tomography, using near infrared light, with standard ultrasound imaging can help distinguish early-stage breast cancer from non-cancerous lesions, and potentially reduce the number of breast biopsies performed. 4 October 2005

New radiation therapy may improve breast cancer survival rates
Intraoperative Radiation Treatment (IORT) is a new radiation therapy that may improve the local control of breast cancer significantly. It can preserve the breast and may also reduce the spread of the disease. 4 October 2005

Varian's first Trilogy linear accelerator in Europe installed in Lisbon clinic
Varian Medical Systems has scored a European first with the installation of its Trilogy medical linear accelerator at the Clinica Quadrantes in Lisbon. The accelerator will enable doctors at the clinic to offer cancer patients more targeted treatments using new methods. 4 October 2005

Screening of lung cancer with CT scans may save many lives
A new international study shows that early detection of lung cancer for the highest-risk patients could mean the difference between life and death. 97% of tumours found through CT scans, in non-symptomatic patients, are potentially curable with surgery alone. 29 September 2005

CAD software improves detection of breast cancer
Detection rates for small, invasive breast cancers increased by 164% and cancers were found in women at a younger age when radiologists used computer aided detection (CAD) to assist in reading mammograms. 28 September 2005

Photoselective vaporisation of the prostate shown to be effective treatment for BPH
A study on the long-term outcomes of men treated with photoselective vaporisation of the prostate (PVP) for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) using the Laserscope GreenLight (TM) laser system has shown significant and sustainable improvements in the outcomes of patients. 28 September 2005

Oxford University join with GE Healthcare to study colorectal cancer
GE Healthcare and Oxford University will jointly study the pathology of colorectal cancer, with the aim of achieving earlier diagnosis and treatment of the disease. A major goal of the two-year collaboration will be to create a coherent picture of a patient's disease and determine the most effective treatment. 27 September 2005

High intensity focused ultrasound gives new hope for cancer sufferers
Liver and kidney cancer sufferers in Europe can benefit from a remarkable proven technology from China. High-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) can destroy tumours without surgery. 25 September 2005

Intraop Medical receives order for Mobetron from Poland
Intraop Medical, has received an order for its Mobetron, from the Wielkopolskie Centrum Onkologii Cancer Centre in Poznan, the second order from Poland. The Mobetron delivers intraoperative radiation treatment (IORT) during cancer surgery. 22 September 2005

Micro-bubbles and CPS technology improve ultrasound cancer detection
A new generation of ultrasound contrast media, micro-bubbles, combined with a new pulse sequencing technology, can enable ultrasound scanners to distinguish healthy tissue from malignant tumours and metastases better than previously. 3 September 2005

Computed tomographic colonoscopy can detect cancer outside of colon
The investigation of the colon using computed tomography can detect cancers and other important conditions outside of the colon. Conventional colonoscopy only examines the inside of the colon and would therefore miss these. 28 July 2005

Magnetic resonance spectroscopy improves identification of cancerous breast tumours
A study published in the August issue of Radiology shows that adding spectroscopic analysis to magnetic resonance (MR) imaging increased both the detection rate of cancerous tumours and the success rate of distinguishing benign from malignant tumours. 28 July 2005

Laser and fibre optics could help early cancer detection
A novel technology using an optical fibre to carry laser light into suspicious tissue and performing spectral analysis of the cells, could help detect cancer earlier, without performing invasive biopsies. 27 July 2005

Caffeine and exercise can prevent clear PET and CT imaging of heart
Consumption of caffeine before a positron emission tomography (PET) or computed tomography (CT) scan of the heart can increase the amount of chemical tracer in the heart and obscure the images. If a person exercises or drinks coffee before having a PET/CT scan, the heart beats faster, causing more tracer to appear in the heart region, obscuring the view. 13 July 2005

R2 introduces smarter CAD algorithm and workflow for mammography products. 10 June 2005

Combined MRI and X-ray mammography best way to detect breast cancer
Annual screening, using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and X-ray mammography, is the best way to detect breast cancer in women that have a high genetic risk of the disease, say researchers at The Institute of Cancer Research, London. 10 June 2005

Mobile phone use and brain tumours: is there a connection?
Over the past 15 years, there has been growing concern about this possibility. Part of this concern stems from the fact that there are over one billion mobile phone subscribers worldwide, and the number is increasing. 9 June 2005

Technology for earlier detection of lung cancer
Newly available medical technology is helping radiologists cost-effectively find more early-stage lung cancers,
permitting earlier treatment. RapidScreen is an FDA-approved computerised detection system for digital and film chest X-rays. It identifies suspected nodule sites for further analysis by the radiologist. April 2005

Siemens to install particle therapy technology at Heidelberg ion beam therapy centre
The first combined particle therapy solution in Europe will be used for treating tumours with carbon ions and protons. April 2005

RITA Medical Systems introduces radiofrequency ablation device for tumours. April 2005
RITA Medical Systems has introduced the StarBurst TALON, a radiofrequency ablation (RFA) device that offers clinicians the ability to perform fast 4cm spherical ablations with a novel side-deploy design that assists precise device positioning in tumours that may be mobile in soft tissue or adjacent to critical structures.

Lifeline Biotechnologies ships first MastaScope to Greece. April 2005

Computer-aided detection for breast MRI may improve diagnostic analysis, according to Spanish study. March 2005

 

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